Significant weight loss is a major accomplishment, but if your skin has lost its elasticity, it can obscure your slim, new contours. In some cases, a standard tummy tuck may not be enough to achieve your aesthetic goals. That’s where a fleur de lis tummy tuck comes in. This extended body contouring procedure can offer more dramatic results so you can enjoy your hard-earned transformation more fully.
In this blog post, I’ll cover what a fleur de lis abdominoplasty is, how it differs from a traditional tummy tuck, who makes a good candidate, and what to expect from the recovery process so you can determine whether it is right for you.
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What Is a Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck?
A fleur de lis tummy tuck is an advanced surgical technique designed to remove excess skin and tighten the abdominal area in 2 dimensions—vertically and horizontally. The name comes from the shape of the incision pattern, which resembles the fleur de lis symbol. With a standard tummy tuck, I make a horizontal incision low on the abdomen. This procedure also adds a vertical incision that runs up the midline of the abdomen.
This dual approach allows me to remove more loose skin, particularly in the upper abdomen, which can be difficult to address with a standard abdominoplasty alone.
Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck vs. Regular Tummy Tuck
Choosing between the 2 techniques typically comes down to how much excess skin a patient has—and where it’s located. A standard tummy tuck primarily tightens the area below the bellybutton, removing lower abdominal skin and tightening the underlying muscles (diastasis recti repair). It’s ideal for patients with moderate skin laxity or women after pregnancy.
In contrast, individuals who have lost significant weight and have loose skin extending in both horizontal and vertical directions usually experience more satisfying results with the fleur de lis technique. This procedure sculpts the abdomen more extensively, creating a tighter waistline and smoother body contours.
Pros and Cons of a Fleur de Lis Surgical Approach
Like any surgical procedure, it’s important to consider all aspects of the procedure carefully.
Pros
- Dramatic skin removal: Removes more skin than a traditional tummy tuck, especially in the upper midsection.
- Improved waist definition: Significantly narrow the waistline.
- Enhanced overall contour: Offers comprehensive reshaping for people with skin laxity above and below the bellybutton.
Cons
- More visible scarring: The vertical scar on the midline is permanent, though it fades over time, and you can often hide it beneath clothing.
- Longer recovery: Because it is a more extensive surgery, recovery may take slightly longer than a standard tummy tuck.
Despite the potential for increased scarring, many patients find the tradeoff more than worthwhile for their improved shape and comfort.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
The best candidates for this procedure are those who have lost a substantial amount of weight and are left with loose, hanging skin in both vertical and horizontal directions. Common examples include:
- Post-bariatric surgery patients
- Individuals who have lost 50+ pounds through diet and exercise
- People with excess skin that a standard tummy tuck cannot address
Candidates should be at or near their goal weight, in good overall health, and have realistic expectations about surgery and scarring.
What To Expect From Recovery
Recovery time for a fleur de lis tummy tuck is typically 6 to 8 weeks. Most patients can resume nonstrenuous work and activities around 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. However, you will need to avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for several weeks following surgery.
Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal in the first few weeks. We often place temporary surgical drains to reduce fluid buildup and promote healing. We will also ask you to wear compression garments around the clock to manage swelling and support healing.
While recovery from a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck can be more involved than a traditional tummy tuck, many patients find it manageable—especially with strong support at home and careful adherence to postoperative instructions.
Complementary Procedures
Many patients who choose a fleur de lis procedure combine it with other procedures to enhance their results. These may include:
- Liposuction: When pockets of fat remain, liposuction is ideal for refining the waist, hips, or flanks to complement your tummy tuck.
- Mommy Makeover: A customizable combination of procedures, a mommy makeover typically includes a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, and/or a breast lift to restore the body after pregnancy or significant weight changes.
- Post-Weight Loss Body Contouring: A fleur de lis tummy tuck is often part of a larger transformation for individuals who have lost significant weight and need additional procedures such as an arm lift, thigh lift, or lower body lift to address excess skin.
- Microneedling (after healing): While not performed during surgery, microneedling can soften and smooth the appearance of your scars once you’ve fully healed.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether any of these options are a good fit for your body goals.
Take the Next Step
If you’re considering a tummy tuck with the fleur de lis incision technique, you’re likely looking for a transformative change that honors your weight loss journey and helps you feel comfortable in your own skin. To meet with me to discuss your body contouring goals, please request a consultation or call us at (515) 277-5555.
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