When considering options for addressing excess abdominal skin, it’s essential to evaluate the individual’s specific needs and goals. While a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can be highly effective for targeting the front of the abdomen, it may not address all of the concerns for certain patients, particularly those who have experienced significant weight loss or have excess skin in multiple areas of the body.

For individuals who have undergone substantial weight loss, whether through bariatric surgery or other means, a circumferential body lift may be a more comprehensive solution. Unlike a tummy tuck, which primarily targets the abdomen, a circumferential body lift addresses excess skin not only on the abdomen but also on the back, hips, and buttocks. This procedure involves removing excess skin and tissue circumferentially around the waistline, resulting in a smoother and more contoured appearance throughout the midsection.

Additionally, a circumferential body lift can include a lateral thigh lift, which helps address sagging skin on the outer thighs, further enhancing the overall contour of the lower body. By addressing multiple areas of concern in a single surgery, patients can achieve more comprehensive and aesthetically pleasing results.

Furthermore, patients who have lost a significant amount of weight often have excess skin in other areas of the body, such as the arms, breasts, and inner thighs. In these cases, additional procedures, such as arm lift (brachioplasty), breast lift (mastopexy), or thigh lift (medial thighplasty), may be necessary to tailor the skin to their new body shape fully.

Ultimately, the choice between a tummy tuck and a circumferential body lift depends on the extent of excess skin and the patient’s overall body contouring goals. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring procedures can help individuals determine the most appropriate treatment plan to achieve their desired results.