Reverse Tummy Tuck in Novi, Michigan
Illuum Cosmetic Surgery in Novi offers reverse tummy tucks, a specialized procedure targeting the upper abdomen to remove excess skin and fat. Our board-certified plastic surgeons—Dr. Gregory Lakin and Dr. Ellen Ozolins—have over 20 years of experience performing body contouring operations and achieving stunning results. Illuum Cosmetic Surgery provides excellent surgical skills, an empowering environment, and surprisingly affordable prices for reverse tummy tucks. Our welcoming, body-positive approach aims to help each person become the best version of themselves.
What Is a Reverse Tummy Tuck?
A reverse tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper abdomen. Unlike other types of tummy lift, it focuses only on this area, and there is no need to repair muscles. During a reverse tummy tuck, unwanted tissue is removed from the upper abdomen through an incision below the breasts. The entire operation takes between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity.
Consultation and Preparation
for Reverse Tummy Tuck
Before getting a reverse tummy tuck, the patient must meet with our cosmetic surgeon for a consultation to discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure. We evaluate the patient’s upper abdomen laxity and excess skin, assess their health and medical history, and determine if they are a good candidate.
Preparation includes the following aspects:
- Lab testing to ensure that the patient is healthy enough for surgery
- Instructions to stop smoking/vaping several weeks beforehand
- Guidelines on medications and supplements to avoid
- Arranging proper at-home care and assistance during recovery
- Clear pre-operative communication between the patient and the surgeon.
Reverse Tummy Tuck Procedure
Anesthesia
The reverse tummy tuck begins with anesthesia to prevent the patient from feeling pain during the procedure. Illuum Cosmetic Surgery uses general anesthesia to ensure that the patient is safe and comfortable.
Incisions
The surgeon makes incisions just below the breast crease, following the natural contours across the upper portion of the abdomen. The incisions are placed strategically for the subsequent reshaping steps.
Excess Skin Removal
Any unwanted, sagging skin in the upper abdomen is trimmed away through the incisions to create a flatter contour. The remaining skin is stretched taut to make it appear tighter.
Closing Incisions
Once the skin has been addressed, the surgeon carefully closes the incisions using sutures and surgical tape. Over time, the incision lines will continue to heal and fade.
Reverse Tummy Tuck
Before & After
Add-On Procedure: Breast Lift
Many women undergoing a reverse tummy tuck also combine the procedure with a breast lift (mastopexy). A breast lift can reposition sagging breasts upper on the chest and create a perkier shape. When performed together in one surgery, these two procedures complement each other well. The reverse tummy tuck addresses loose skin and fat on the upper abdomen, while the breast lift tackles ptosis (sagging) of the breasts. Patients benefit from undergoing only a single recovery period and achieve more impressive results
Recovery After Reverse Tummy Tuck
First Week
Patients should take at least 7 days off work to allow their bodies to heal properly. They will experience some swelling and bruising in the treatment area, but this discomfort will decrease in a few weeks. Pain medication is typically prescribed, and patients are advised to walk bent over or hunched for the first week after surgery to avoid putting tension on the sutures.
Weeks 2-4
Most patients return to work within 7–14 days. However, they should be mindful of their movements. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 4 weeks to allow proper healing. The compression garment worn after surgery will provide support and reduce swelling during recovery. We will instruct you on proper lymphatic massage to help reduce postoperative swelling as well.
Long-Term Recovery
Some numbness in the abdominal area may persist for a few months before normal sensation returns. The recovery process is gradual, so patients must follow all instructions and take everything easy. It takes 1 month until you start to see your final result, and it may take up to 3–6 months to see the final results from a reverse tummy tuck. We will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and help patients during the recovery period.
Candidates for Reverse Tummy Tuck
Reverse tummy tucks can bring many positive transformations, making the body look younger and more fit. However, this procedure is designed for people with certain conditions who meet specific criteria. Here are the traits of ideal candidates who can benefit the most from this surgery.
Loose Skin Above the Belly Button
Patients who undergo a reverse tummy tuck must have loose skin above the navel area. This operation focuses on tightening and smoothing the upper abdomen, removing excess tissue to create a flatter, more toned appearance.
Realistic Expectations
Ideal candidates have realistic expectations about the changes that can be achieved. Unlike some other types of body lift, reverse tummy tuck surgery has a more modest effect. There will be no changes in the lower abdomen, so patients should not expect this. If more extensive transformations are needed, this surgery can be combined with other procedures or may be substituted for a full tummy tuck to help achieve better results.
Mild to Moderate Sagging
A reverse tummy tuck is ideal for patients with mild to moderate sagging skin that is localized in their upper abdomen. Such people can achieve great results from this targeted surgery.
Within 30 Pounds of Ideal Weight
Significant weight loss after the surgery could compromise results. Therefore, patients should be within 30 pounds of their target weight before undergoing a reverse abdominoplasty. Being at a stable weight allows for better contouring.
Good Skin Elasticity
The best candidates for reverse tummy tuck have decent skin elasticity (despite some skin laxity). This characteristic is important because flexible skin adheres to the new contours more effectively, making the body look more toned.
Benefits of Reverse Tummy Tuck
- Tightens Loose Skin on the Upper Abdomen
During a reverse tummy tuck, the surgeon removes excess skin and tightens the remaining tissue. This helps to create a smoother, firmer, and more toned appearance. The surgery can eliminate visible stretch marks in the upper belly region.
- Reshapes the Waistline
By addressing loose skin of the upper abdomen through a reverse tummy tuck, patients can refine the overall shape of their waistline. Removing the excess tissue creates a slimmer and more contoured waist area.
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Helps to Address Unbalance
After Other Lifts
A reverse tummy tuck is not a common procedure, but it is indispensable when the patient has too much lax skin in the upper abdomen after liposuction or other types of lift. If the patient’s breasts are large and pendulous, the scarring can be well hidden.
- The Belly Button Stays in Place
A reverse tummy tuck focuses on the upper abdomen without repositioning the belly button. This can be especially beneficial for patients who are happy with the appearance of their navel but desire improvement in the upper area.
Cost of Reverse Tummy Tuck in Novi, Michigan
The cost of a reverse tummy tuck in Novi, Michigan, ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. This is just an estimate because the actual cost can vary depending on several factors. To get the most accurate cost for each patient’s situation, it is essential to consult with our board-certified plastic surgeon for a personalized quote. During the consultation, we will discuss the patient’s desired outcome, medical history, and any questions about the procedure and associated fees.
What Makes Our Reverse Tummy Tucks Different From Others?
Illuum Cosmetic Surgery has over 20 years of experience performing aesthetic procedures, such as the reverse tummy tuck. After such long practice, we have become true experts in this field. Our skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons use innovative techniques to achieve natural-looking results, treating each individual as a unique canvas. Safety is the top priority, so procedures are only recommended if appropriate for the patient.
In addition to our professional expertise, Illuum Cosmetic Surgery creates a welcoming, body-positive environment where patients feel empowered about themselves. From start to finish, we provide a customized, human-focused experience aimed at helping people become the best version of themselves, inside and out.
Our high-quality services are also surprisingly affordable, allowing more patients to transform their bodies and boost their confidence. Illuum Cosmetic Surgery is ready to provide excellent results for everyone seeking an exceptional reverse tummy tuck in Michigan.
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you’re seeking the expert guidance of Dr. Lakin or Dr. Ozolins, or have a clear idea of your needs, scheduling a consultation is the obvious and easy next step. Meet and sit down with one of Michigan’s premier plastic surgeons and start your journey into illuminating the best version of yourself.
