Traditional TT vs. FDL tummy tuck

I think I want a FDL tummy tuck because I have a lot of loose skin pretty high on my torso. At my age, I don't really care about a vertical scar. I'd rather deal with that than risk being left with a "muffin top".

One PS agreed a FDL would be best for me. The other said I'd probably be fine with a traditional TT, and he could always go back later and add a FDL (at an additional cost, of course) if I still wanted that.

SO...does anyone regret doing a FDL? Or on the flipside, did anyone get a traditional and in retrospect wish they'd had a FDL?

I think I'm going to do a couple more consults and see what the majority opinion seems to be (although I'm aware some PS's are against doing FDL's at all, so of course they wouldn't recommend them), but I'm curious about real patients' thoughts/reactions.

thanks in advance!

I had the same question. One surgeon said that I needed a FDL and the other said it was totally unnecessary, he could tighten above my belly button without the vertical incision. I have a 4 inch scar from my RNY that wasn't done very pretty so having a PS make a nice incision would certainly be ok. In any case my upper belly swells out and I'd really like to have it fixed. That's the tightening that I've been told is most painful, but I think the end result will be worth it.

I ended up choosing to have surgery with the non-FDL doc for other reasons, including that the other doc didn't believe in putting in belly buttons because they are "unnecessary". Yes, but totally weird! I'd feel like an alien!

I encourage you to have at least one more consult for perspective. I think it will help to clarify things for you.

I'm excited for you!

I don't care about the scar - but oddly, I think I'd care about not having a belly button!!! I also think having another consult or two might be helpful...

A plastic surgeon who doesn't believe in belly buttons is like hiring an interior designer who doesn't believe in throw pillows. No you don't need one, but it would look weird without it!

I'm not having PS to look like a super model but no belly button, whether or not I still need it, seemed a bit extreme. Made me wonder whether a non-breast feeding woman needs her breasts after a mastectomy. I think it is important for your surgeon to understand your own aesthetic needs.

I agree about the belly button. I like mine! I saw someone who didn't have one and it is weird. We have enough body dysmorphia.

I had an FDL last summer and the vertical line is barely noticeable now. My abdomen is super flat plus my belly button is cute (looks just like when I was young). Recently (March 2nd) had a breast reduction/lift along with a monsplasty. Now everything looks GREAT!!!! (The second operation was hell during the initial healing, as compare to the FDL . . . and that made no sense). Anyway, you'll know what's best for you once you entertain a few more consults.

Jo

thanks - I think I should do a few more consults, too. Or at least a couple more, anyway. It might make things clearer for me. And yes, that is weird that your second surgery was worse - I would think that would have been an easier one for sure!

Honestly, I regret NOT getting a FDL. I have a lot of loose skin above my navel which was not addressed because my surgeon didn't recommend a vertical incision.

Now, if I want it fixed, that's another surgery and $7000. Gee, thanks.

I'm afraid that might happen to me as well...