Achieve the Silhouette of Your Dreams with an Extended Tummy Tuck from Dr. Remus Repta

While the traditional tummy tuck certainly comes with a smaller incision than the extended tummy tuck, we believe that there is no point in having a smaller incision if the final outcome is not as appealing as it can be. This is why an extended tummy tuck is the best option for many people with a lot of loose skin. With Dr. Repta's superb guidance, the two of you can decide whether or not an extended tummy tuck is right for you, and he’ll put his extensive experience to work crafting a bespoke treatment plan that is tailored directly to you, your goals, and your unique physical characteristics. We believe that every patient deserves to enjoy the silhouette of their dreams, and will work with you to ensure that you’re enjoying results that leave you positively filled with confidence. Ready to get started? Reach out to Dr. Repta’s Scottsdale office and set up your initial consultation with a helpful member of our team today.

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What Is an Extended Tummy Tuck?

An extended tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure that tackles excess skin around the abdomen and lateral flanks of the patient. In an extended tummy tuck, the incision is longer than a full tummy tuck, giving Dr. Repta access to thoroughly address excessive skin on the sides. In order to prevent the appearance of lateral "dog ears" and still accomplish the same result of a full or circumferential procedure, the incision for an extended abdominoplasty reaches as far on each side of the abdomen/hip as possible, limited only by the presence of the operating room bed. Therefore, an extended tummy tuck is identical to a full tummy tuck, with a longer incision. Instead of hip to hip, an extended tummy tuck incision runs from one side of the bed to the other. Despite this, the incision is still placed as low as possible, allowing it to be easily hidden by undergarments or bikini bottoms.

Choosing the Right Procedure for You

The extended tummy tuck was designed to help patients who have more loose skin than a full tummy tuck patient but not enough to undergo a circumferential tummy tuck also known as a lower body lift. As with any cosmetic surgery that requires the removal of excess skin, the incision length is best determined by what will achieve the best contour. If the incision is thin and placed where it can be well hidden, the length of the incision is usually not of great concern for most patients.

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Our Extended Tummy Tuck Results

As Scottsdale abdominoplasty surgeon Dr. Repta says, "Always choose the incision length that will give you the best result." A slightly longer scar is a much preferred alternative to loose skin left over, which is inevitable if your surgeon tries to get away with a shorter incision. If this occurs, revision surgery will result in a longer scar anyway - all the more reason to ensure your tummy tuck surgeon is careful in choosing the correct incision the first time around.

Is an Extended Tummy Tuck Right for Me?

The extended tummy tuck procedure is best suited for those who wish to improve the appearance of their abdomen and waist and have more loose skin than a full tummy tuck. Specifically, an extended tummy tuck candidate tends to have an excessive amount of skin in the abdomen as well as the flanks, more than that of a full tummy tuck candidate and less than that of a lower body lift patient. This skin can sometimes weigh several pounds and be quite bothersome after the goal of losing so much weight has been accomplished. Candidates for an extended tummy tuck may experience one or more of the following issues:

  • Excess skin around the abdomen and waist
  • Skin excess in the lower abdomen that extends to the sides
  • Abdominal skin that hangs down and folds over itself
  • A stretched abdominal muscle layer, causing a bulging appearance of the abdomen
  • Stretch marks on and around the abdomen and flanks
  • A loose and sagging pubic area
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Your Initial Consultation in Scottsdale

If you are considering an extended tummy tuck, your next step is a private consultation with Dr. Repta. During this time, Dr. Repta will carefully listen to your goals for improvement of the loose skin of the abdomen and waist and make sure he understands your exact desires.

He will then evaluate the unique characteristics of your abdomen and waist to be able to provide the best options to meet your tummy tuck goals.

During the consultation, Dr. Repta educates you every step of the way. He makes you an intimate part of the process, and the two of you work as a team to determine the best course of treatment. With Dr. Repta, plastic surgery is a collaborative effort, and he will not move forward with surgery until the two of you are on the same page in terms of goals and the procedure to accomplish those goals. This quality, along with his skilled hand and expansive level of knowledge, makes Dr. Repta one of the best plastic surgeons in Scottsdale for the extended abdominoplasty procedure.

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Recovery After Your Extended Abdominoplasty

The extended tummy tuck procedure has a similar recovery to a full tummy tuck. All of the aspects of the full tummy tuck such as muscle tightening, liposuction, and skin tightening are the same with the only difference being the length of the incision and often the amount of liposuction performed. During your recovery period, you will be expected to follow several extended tummy tuck recovery guidelines. These guidelines not only ensure the highest level of comfort, they also help give you the best aesthetic outcome. More information can be found in the Anesthesia, Risks & Recovery section. You can also visit Dr. Repta's top ten tummy tuck recovery tips.

Extended Tummy Tuck Aftercare

The extended tummy tuck procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery with patients going home shortly after the procedure. However, depending on several factors-such as the complexity of the procedure, the availability of a caregiver at home or your personal preference-some patients decide to take advantage of a nearby aftercare facility.

This helps ensure your personal attention and needs are looked after by Dr. Repta and his highly trained staff. As one of the best Scottsdale tummy tuck surgeons, Dr. Repta is available to help you achieve the result that you are looking for and get you back to your everyday life with your new, toned abdomen and waist.

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Extended Tummy Tuck FAQ

How does an extended tummy tuck differ from a standard tummy tuck?

What can I expect during the recovery period after an extended tummy tuck?

Will there be visible scarring after an extended tummy tuck?

How long do the results of an extended tummy tuck last?

Can I combine an extended tummy tuck with other procedures?

Is an extended tummy tuck covered by insurance?

What type of anesthesia is used during an extended tummy tuck?

How does an extended tummy tuck differ from a standard tummy tuck?

While a standard tummy tuck focuses primarily on the abdominal area, an extended tummy tuck extends the incisions to address additional areas such as the flanks and lower back, resulting in a more comprehensive body contouring effect.

What can I expect during the recovery period after an extended tummy tuck?

Recovery from an extended tummy tuck involves managing swelling and discomfort, which can be alleviated with pain medication. Patients should follow their surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.

Will there be visible scarring after an extended tummy tuck?

Scarring is normal after any surgical procedure, but a skilled surgeon will place incisions strategically to minimize visible scarring. Over time, scars tend to fade and become less noticeable.

How long do the results of an extended tummy tuck last?

The results of an extended tummy tuck are long-lasting, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle. However, natural aging and lifestyle factors can influence the longevity of results.

Can I combine an extended tummy tuck with other procedures?

Yes, an extended tummy tuck can often be combined with other procedures, such as breast surgery or liposuction, to achieve comprehensive results. Consult your surgeon to discuss your specific goals.

Is an extended tummy tuck covered by insurance?

An extended tummy tuck is usually considered elective and cosmetic, so it is unlikely to be covered by insurance. It's advisable to check with your provider for specific coverage details.

What type of anesthesia is used during an extended tummy tuck?

An extended tummy tuck is typically performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient's comfort throughout the procedure.

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Why Choose Dr. Repta for your Extended Tummy Tuck

Dr. Remus Repta has spent nearly two decades earning a reputation for excellence in Scottsdale and around the world, and he is excited to learn more about how we can help you reach your ultimate body contouring goals. The extended tummy tuck is just one of several tummy tuck techniques with which Dr. Repta is an expert, and he’s proud to be thought of as a pioneer in the tummy tuck space, having developed a number of proprietary techniques himself.

When you visit Dr. Repta’s practice, you’ll find yourself entering a welcoming and luxurious environment populated by a staff that remains committed to a personalized approach to body contouring. You’ll be cared for at every step of your cosmetic journey, and we’ll ensure that you remain comfortable as you get ready to show off your life-affirming results. When you’re ready to get started, reach out to Dr. Repta in Scottsdale and set up your initial consultation today.

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