As the warmer seasons creep in, the thought of slipping into bikinis and crop tops can be a little daunting, especially if you’re not feeling so great about your upper abdomen. 

Trust us—you’re not alone.

At Dr. Cat Plastic Surgery, we know diet and exercise only go so far. For many, even the healthiest lifestyle can fall short of addressing those pesky trouble spots. A reverse tummy tuck could be your secret to embracing beach days with confidence and comfort. 

In this comprehensive guide, we break down every detail of reverse tummy tuck surgery—from what it entails to what recovery looks like and more. 

Ready to make your summer body goals a reality? Keep reading. 

Understanding the Reverse Tummy Tuck

There are many different types of tummy tuck procedures. A reverse tummy tuck is a lesser-known alternative abdominal surgery that focuses on the upper abdominal area. 

This differs from a traditional tummy tuck, which removes excess skin or fat overhang and repairs the abdominal muscles in the middle and lower belly. 

A reverse tummy tuck is also the opposite of a mini tummy tuck, which only focuses on the lowest abdominal area, between your belly button and pubic region. 

With this upper abdomen contouring surgery, patients can eliminate excess skin and fat in the upper abdomen. This is ideal if you don’t generally have full diastasis recti (or abdominal muscle separation), which mainly affects the lower part of your stomach.

So, what can you expect after treating yourself to a reverse tummy tuck? 

Reverse Tummy Tuck Benefits: A New Chapter of Confidence

Tummy tucks are known to offer life-changing benefits to patients. In terms of reverse abdominoplasty, these perks include:

• Smoother, tighter abdominal skin
• More definition in the upper stomach
• Breasts appear fuller 
• Corrects post-pregnancy changes
• Minimal visible scarring
• Shorter recovery than a traditional tummy tuck
• Enhanced physical comfort and posture
• Clothing feels more flattering
• Newfound confidence and self-love

Reverse tummy tucks are a great choice for many, but not everyone. Let’s see if it’s the best match for you.

Ideal Candidates: Is a Reverse Tummy Tuck Right for You?

At your consultation, you’ll have a detailed discussion with your surgeon about your health, medical history, aesthetic concerns, and goals. This helps them determine which type of tummy tuck and surgical approach aligns best with your needs.

A reverse tummy tuck could be your ideal solution if you’re:

• Struggling with excess skin or fat in the upper stomach
• Seeking minor refinement in your upper abdomen
• Not diagnosed with full diastasis recti
• Not planning on getting pregnant in the near future
• Able to stop smoking for a certain period before and after surgery
• In generally good health with no serious medical conditions
• At or close to your ideal weight
• Emotionally and financially ready for what surgery entails
• Committed to following your provider’s post-operative guidelines 

Curious about what surgery day looks like? Let’s find out. 

The Surgical Process: What to Expect

On the day of your procedure, you’ll meet with your surgeon once more to map out your incisions and reiterate the details of your reverse tummy tuck. 

Once in the operating room, you’ll receive both local and general anesthesia for maximum comfort and relaxation throughout your procedure.

There are a few different abdominoplasty techniques, but surgery usually always starts the same. 

Your surgeon begins by making a thin incision along your inframammary crease (below the breast fold) from one side to the other. This allows them to lift the upper abdominal skin of the sternum and reposition it higher, creating a smoother, more defined contour.

They then trim the excess and, sometimes, tighten the upper rectus muscles if needed. 

In some cases, patients wish to rejuvenate their bust, in addition to their tummy. In this type of scenario, your surgeon is able to use the excess skin and tissue to augment the breasts, enhancing their volume and shape. 

Reverse tummy tucks can also be combined with other cosmetic surgery options (like liposuction, breast lift, or Mommy Makeover procedures) for a more comprehensive transformation.

Finally, your surgeon secures the elevated tissue with sutures, and voila—you’re off to recovery! 

Reverse Tummy Tuck Recovery: Bouncing Back

As with most surgical body sculpting procedures, you’ll awake from surgery wearing a surgical bandage or compression garment. You’ll wear this for the first week of your tummy tuck recovery to promote healing and protect your results.

As you heal, you’re encouraged to take gentle daily walks but avoid rigorous exercise for about four to six weeks. 

During this time, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and tenderness. But don’t worry; this will all subside on its own gradually.  

After two weeks, most patients are able to return to work and resume light activities. 

In six to eight weeks, you’re ready to jump back into your regular fitness routine and enjoy that newly rejuvenated midsection to the fullest! 

After splurging on this life-changing procedure, it’s only natural to want to preserve your results for the long haul. 

Maintaining Your Results for Years to Come

Your reverse tummy tuck surgery is designed to be long-lasting, but it’s not immune to the natural changes your body experiences as time goes on.

Here are some tips for maintaining your cosmetic surgery results:

• Follow your abdominoplasty post-operative care instructions
• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet
• Exercise regularly 
• Time your pregnancies
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Opt for medical-grade skincare
• Wear SPF when the surgical site is exposed
• Manage your stress levels
• Keep up with regular appointments with your surgeon

But keep in mind, reverse tummy tuck surgery isn’t without its margin of risks.

Potential Risks: What You Should Know

Every surgery comes with its own set of potential complications. Reverse tummy tucks, in particular, aren’t as common as other types of tummy tucks. Therefore, you need an expertly skilled surgeon versed in the nuances of its unique demands. 

Otherwise, you leave the door open for complications such as:

• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Hematomas (blood accumulation) below the skin
• Seromas (fluid buildup) below the skin
• Excessive bruising and swelling
• Odd or asymmetrical results
• Poor scarring 
• Infection
• Changes in skin sensation
• Dissatisfaction with final outcome
• Possible need for revision surgery

The key to mitigating these complications? Choose a trusted surgeon and follow their guidance at every step.

Dr. Cat Plastic Surgery: Reversing Self-Doubt, Uplifting Self-Love

A reverse tummy tuck is a life-changing surgery with the power to rekindle the way you love your body and approach life. But this complex procedure requires the expertise and artistry of a highly-proficient surgeon.

Dr. Cat Huang-Begovic boasts decades of experience and an extensive portfolio of gorgeous, natural tummy tuck results. But it’s not just her exceptional skill that draws patients from all over the world. Her compassionate approach and deep commitment to your satisfaction are what truly sets her apart. 

You deserve to slip into that bikini and radiate the beauty and vibrancy you feel within. Why trust that transformation to anyone less than the best?

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Cat today.