Everything You Need to Know About Reverse Tummy Tuck

A Different Approach to Abdominoplasty

Traditional tummy tucks address excess skin and laxity in the lower abdomen. But not all patients struggle there. Some experience sagging above the belly button, often after weight loss or ageing. This is where the reverse tummy tuck comes in. It targets the upper abdomen, lifting and tightening skin through incisions placed beneath the breasts. Though less common, it’s a valuable option for selected patients.

How the Reverse Tummy Tuck Evolved

The standard tummy tuck is widely known But the reverse tummy tuck developed as a more specialised solution. Surgeons recognised that weight fluctuations, genetics, and age don’t always affect the lower belly.

Patients with sagging skin above the navel needed an alternative. By adapting abdominoplasty techniques, surgeons created a new method. This lifts the upper abdominal skin instead. Today, it’s often paired with breast surgery for comprehensive torso rejuvenation.

What Exactly Happens During Reverse Tummy Tuck Surgery?

In a reverse tummy tuck, incisions are made under the breasts. These incisions usually follow the natural crease. This placement allows scars to be hidden beneath bras or swimwear.

The surgeon lifts the skin downward, removing excess tissue before re-draping it tightly. Unlike traditional tummy tucks, no adjustments are made to the lower abdomen.

The procedure generally takes two to three hours under general anaesthesia. Many patients combine it with breast lifts for balanced results.

Who Typically Chooses This Reverse Tummy Tuck Procedure?

Candidates include those with significant loose skin in the upper abdomen. Good candidates will also have minimal concerns below the navel. Weight loss patients often seek it, especially when the upper torso shows residual sagging.

Ageing can also contribute, as skin loses elasticity over time. For some, genetics play a role, with skin folding above the stomach despite healthy weight.

The reverse tummy tuck is best for patients with stable weight and realistic expectations.

Reverse Tummy Tuck Recovery and Healing Timeline

Recovery after a reverse tummy tuck is similar to other abdominal surgeries. Though discomfort is usually concentrated higher on the torso.

Patients wear supportive garments to minimise swelling and support healing. Light activity resumes within a week, though strenuous exercise should wait several weeks.

Scars fade gradually, hidden beneath breast creases. With proper care, recovery is manageable, and patients often describe results as worth the downtime.

Expected Reverse Tummy Tuck Results and Transformation

The procedure produces a noticeably firmer upper abdomen. Patients often describe feeling more confident wearing fitted clothing or swimwear.

Unlike exercise or diet, which cannot tighten loose skin, surgery provides definitive improvement. The change enhances body proportions, especially when combined with breast surgery.

Results are long-lasting, provided weight remains stable. Many patients consider the transformation both physical and emotional, improving posture and self-esteem.

How It Differs from a Traditional Tummy Tuck

While both surgeries aim to tighten the abdomen, they target different areas. Traditional tummy tucks focus on skin and muscle below the belly button.

The reverse tummy tuck, however, only addresses tissue above the navel. In some cases, surgeons combine both procedures for complete abdominal rejuvenation.

Choosing between them depends on where sagging is most prominent. Surgeons help determine which technique suits each patient’s body type and goals.

Tummy Tuck Cost Considerations

Costs vary depending on country, surgeon, and whether combined procedures are performed. In the UK, reverse tummy tucks range from £6,000 to £9,000. In the USA, prices can exceed £10,000.

Turkey remains an affordable alternative, with average costs between £3,000 and £4,500. Packages often include hospital stays, aftercare, and accommodation. This makes it an attractive destination for international patients.

Conclusion

The reverse tummy tuck provides a targeted solution for sagging above the belly button. It offers lasting transformation for patients with concerns that diet and exercise cannot fix. By lifting and tightening the upper abdomen, it restores balance and confidence. For some, it completes a weight loss journey, while for others, it reverses age-related changes.

For more information and to book a consultation visit the ACIBADEM Beauty Center Tummy Tuck webpage.