A reverse tummy tuck is a specialized body contouring procedure that improves loose, sagging skin in the upper abdomen. Instead of placing the incision low on the abdomen like a traditional tummy tuck, Dr. Michael Chiodo works through incisions along the natural creases beneath the breasts. Through this approach, he can remove excess skin, tighten the upper abdominal area, and create a smoother, firmer contour that better matches your proportions.
Reverse Tummy Tuck
Reverse Tummy Tuck Corrects the Following:
- Loose, sagging skin above the belly button
- Upper abdominal laxity after significant weight loss
- Excess skin that remains after a previous tummy tuck
- Residual upper abdominal fullness following liposuction
- Age-related loss of skin elasticity in the upper abdomen
- Poor definition between the abdomen and lower chest
- Uneven contour of the upper abdominal area
- Excess upper abdominal tissue that affects clothing fit
- Stretched skin that does not improve with diet and exercise
- Upper abdominal skin folds and wrinkling
Reverse Tummy Tuck vs. Traditional Tummy Tuck
A reverse tummy tuck and a traditional tummy tuck address different areas of the abdomen. A reverse tummy tuck focuses on loose skin and tissue above the belly button, with incisions typically hidden beneath the breasts. A traditional tummy tuck targets excess skin, fat, and muscle separation in the lower abdomen through an incision placed near the bikini line.
The right procedure depends on your concerns. If laxity is concentrated in the upper abdomen, a reverse tummy tuck may provide more precise correction. If you have loose skin, weakened abdominal muscles, or excess tissue below the belly button, a traditional tummy tuck may be more appropriate. Dr. Chiodo can help determine the best approach during your consultation.
Candidates for Reverse Tummy Tuck:
- Have loose or sagging skin above the belly button
- Have upper abdominal laxity after significant weight loss
- Have excess skin that remains after a previous tummy tuck
- Have stubborn upper abdominal fullness despite a healthy lifestyle
- Are close to their ideal weight and able to maintain it
- Are in good overall health and nonsmokers, or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
- Want a firmer, smoother upper abdominal contour
- Want to address upper abdominal concerns without treating the lower abdomen
- May have age-related skin laxity affecting the upper midsection
Dr. Chiodo’s Personalized Reverse Tummy Tuck Technique
Your reverse tummy tuck is typically performed under general anesthesia. After reviewing your treatment plan, Dr. Chiodo creates incisions within the natural crease beneath the breasts, allowing access to the upper abdominal tissues while keeping scars as discreet as possible. The incision pattern is customized to your anatomy and the amount of correction needed.
Dr. Chiodo then removes excess skin and may refine the area with liposuction if additional contouring is beneficial. The remaining tissues are elevated and tightened to create a smoother, firmer upper abdomen. Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, repositioning the belly button is usually unnecessary. Once the desired body contour has been achieved, Dr. Chiodo closes the incisions with sutures and applies dressings to support the initial stages of healing.
Recovery After Reverse Tummy Tuck
After your reverse tummy tuck, you can expect temporary swelling, bruising, soreness, and tightness in the upper abdomen. You will need to wear a compression garment as directed to control swelling. Most patients return to light activities within one to two weeks, although recovery timelines vary. During the first several weeks, you should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and activities that place excessive tension on the incisions. Attending follow-up visits and following your aftercare instructions are essential for optimal healing.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Michael Chiodo is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for delivering personalized, natural-looking results through meticulous surgical planning and a patient-centered approach. Whether you are concerned about loose skin after weight loss, aging-related upper abdominal laxity, or contour irregularities that have not responded to diet and exercise, he can create a treatment plan tailored to your anatomy and goals. Schedule an appointment today to learn whether a reverse tummy tuck is right for you.
