Circumferential Abdominoplasty or Belt Lipectomy
Circumferential abdominoplasty also known as belt lipectomy is the most comprehensive (and invasive) of all 3 main types of a tummy tuck.
This procedure addresses both the lower and upper abdomen along with the entire waistline (including the flanks and the back).
This procedure is common with patients who have lost a great deal of weight possibly after a gastric bypass surgery or other types of bariatric (weight loss) surgery.
An ideal candidate for a circumferential tummy tuck typically has:
◉ Massive weight loss: Individuals who have lost a large amount of weight, often through bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, and are left with excess, sagging skin around the midsection.
◉ Loose skin after pregnancy: Women who have experienced stretched skin and weakened abdominal muscles after multiple pregnancies.
◉ Good overall health: Candidates should be non-smokers and free from serious health conditions that could affect healing, such as diabetes or heart disease.
◉ Stable weight: Those who have maintained a stable weight for at least six months and do not plan significant weight loss or future pregnancies.
◉ Realistic expectations: People who understand the procedure, recovery process, and expected outcomes.
The recovery timeline typically unfolds in phases:
◉ First week: You’ll likely spend the first night in a hospital, and you’ll need assistance with daily activities during the first few days. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common. You should focus on rest and light walking to promote circulation.
◉ Weeks 2-4: By the second or third week, most patients feel more comfortable but still need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities. Swelling gradually reduces, and you may return to light, non-strenuous work by the end of this period.
◉ Weeks 4-6: At this stage, you’ll notice significant improvement in comfort and mobility. You can slowly resume moderate activities but should still avoid intense exercise.
◉ 6+ weeks: Most patients feel fully recovered after six weeks. However, final results, including swelling reduction, can take several months to fully settle.