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Traditional vs. Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck: Understanding the Differences

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgery designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while tightening the underlying muscles. While the traditional tummy tuck is widely known, there is another specialized option called the Fleur de Lis tummy tuck. Both surgeries target the midsection, but they differ in techniques and results.

In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between a traditional tummy tuck and the Fleur de Lis tummy tuck, helping you decide which option may be best suited for your needs.

What Is a Traditional Tummy Tuck?

A traditional tummy tuck focuses on removing excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles. This surgery is ideal for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight or women who have experienced changes to their abdomen after pregnancy.

How Does the Traditional Tummy Tuck Work?

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a horizontal incision between the hips, just above the pubic area. The length of the incision depends on the amount of skin being removed. Once the incision is made, the surgeon tightens the abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat. The remaining skin is then pulled down and sutured in place. A small incision around the navel may also be made to reposition the belly button.

Benefits of a Traditional Tummy Tuck:

  • Improves the abdominal contour: Tightens loose skin and muscles, resulting in a smoother, firmer abdomen.
  • Reduces fat: Removes localized fat that has been resistant to diet and exercise.
  • Restores confidence: Provides a more defined and toned appearance, often boosting self-esteem.

Ideal Candidates for Traditional Tummy Tuck:

  • Individuals with moderate skin sagging and muscle separation.
  • Those who have lost weight or gone through pregnancy and want to improve the appearance of their abdomen.
  • People with good overall health who do not smoke.

What Is a Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck?

A Fleur de Lis tummy tuck is a more specialized and extensive form of abdominoplasty, often chosen by individuals who have undergone massive weight loss. Unlike the traditional tummy tuck, which focuses on horizontal skin removal, the Fleur de Lis tummy tuck removes both vertical and horizontal excess skin. This procedure is particularly effective for those with significant sagging skin not only around the lower abdomen but also on the upper abdomen, sides, and waist.

How Does the Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck Work?

The Fleur de Lis tummy tuck involves both a horizontal incision (similar to the traditional tummy tuck) and a vertical incision running down the middle of the abdomen. This allows the surgeon to remove a larger amount of skin from both the upper and lower abdomen, as well as from the sides. The dual incisions give the surgeon greater control over reshaping the entire midsection, creating a more defined and contoured waistline.

Benefits of a Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck:

  • Comprehensive skin removal: Targets both horizontal and vertical skin laxity, providing a more complete transformation.
  • Improved contouring: Allows for a more sculpted waistline and abdominal area.
  • Restores symmetry: Especially beneficial for individuals with extreme skin sagging after major weight loss.

Ideal Candidates for Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck:

  • Individuals who have lost a large amount of weight and are left with extensive loose skin in the abdominal area.
  • Those with skin sagging across the abdomen, sides, and waist that cannot be addressed by a traditional tummy tuck.
  • Candidates who are in good health and are committed to maintaining their weight.

Key Differences Between Traditional and Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck

While both surgeries aim to improve the appearance of the abdominal area, they are quite different in terms of technique, scarring, and the extent of skin removal.

1. Incision Patterns

  • Traditional Tummy Tuck: Involves a horizontal incision just above the pubic area, with possible small incisions near the belly button.
  • Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck: Involves both a horizontal incision and a vertical incision down the center of the abdomen, allowing for more extensive skin removal.

2. Amount of Skin Removed

  • Traditional Tummy Tuck: Targets excess skin in the lower abdomen.
  • Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck: Addresses excess skin in both the lower and upper abdomen, as well as the sides, making it ideal for more severe cases of skin sagging.

3. Recovery Time

  • Both procedures require similar recovery periods of several weeks, but because the Fleur de Lis tummy tuck involves more incisions, the recovery may be slightly longer. Patients should expect to take time off work and avoid strenuous activity for at least 4–6 weeks.

4. Scarring

  • Traditional Tummy Tuck: Leaves a horizontal scar just above the pubic area, which is typically hidden under clothing or swimwear.
  • Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck: Leaves both a horizontal scar and a vertical scar down the center of the abdomen, which may be more visible depending on the patient’s skin type and healing process.

5. Results

  • Traditional Tummy Tuck: Produces a flatter, smoother abdomen by removing excess skin and tightening muscles in the lower abdominal region.
  • Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck: Produces a more comprehensive transformation by removing larger amounts of skin, reshaping the waistline, and providing more dramatic results for individuals with significant sagging.

Which Procedure Is Right for You?

Choosing between a traditional tummy tuck and a Fleur de Lis tummy tuck depends on your individual needs and goals. If your primary concern is excess skin in the lower abdominal area and muscle laxity, the traditional tummy tuck may be sufficient to achieve your desired results. However, if you have a significant amount of loose skin in both the upper and lower abdomen, as well as around your sides, the Fleur de Lis tummy tuck may provide more comprehensive improvement.

Before making a decision, it’s essential to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon who can assess your needs and recommend the best option for your body type and goals.

Conclusion

Both the traditional and Fleur de Lis tummy tuck procedures can dramatically improve the appearance of the abdomen, giving you a more toned and defined look. The choice between the two depends on the extent of your skin sagging and the results you hope to achieve. While the traditional tummy tuck is suitable for moderate skin laxity, the Fleur de Lis procedure is designed for individuals with more extensive loose skin, particularly after massive weight loss.


If you’re considering a Tummy Tuck procedure in Maryland and need guidance on which option is best for you, AestheticLavc provides expert solutions tailored to your individual needs. Contact AestheticLavc today to learn more about their tummy tuck procedures and achieve the body you’ve worked hard for!

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