What Is a Reverse Tummy Tuck?
A reverse tummy tuck is a less common variation of abdominoplasty designed to address excess skin in the upper abdomen.
Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, which removes skin from the lower abdomen, a reverse tummy tuck removes redundant skin from the upper abdominal area.
Where Is the Incision Placed?
The incision for a reverse tummy tuck is typically placed along the natural crease beneath the breasts.
This allows removal of upper abdominal skin while positioning the scar where it may be partially concealed by the breast fold.
Who May Benefit?
A reverse tummy tuck may be considered in patients who have:
• Isolated upper abdominal skin laxity
• Minimal lower abdominal excess
• Previous lower abdominal surgery
• Weight loss with upper abdominal redundancy
It may also be combined with breast surgery in selected cases.
How Is It Different from a Traditional Tummy Tuck?
• Removes lower abdominal skin
• Tightens abdominal muscles
• Repositions the belly button
Reverse tummy tuck:
• Removes upper abdominal skin
• Does not typically address lower abdominal laxity
• May not involve muscle repair
The appropriate procedure depends on the distribution of excess skin.
Is Reverse Tummy Tuck Common?
This technique is less commonly performed than standard abdominoplasty and is typically reserved for specific anatomical situations.
An individualized evaluation determines whether this approach is appropriate.