Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
A good tummy tuck candidate is someone who has loose or excess abdominal skin, muscle separation (known as diastasis recti), and is at or near a stable weight/not actively losing weight.
Many people associate tummy tucks with moms, and in some cases, that’s true. During pregnancy, the skin stretches and the abdominal muscles separate as the baby grows. However, pregnancy isn’t the only reason someone may develop loose skin or muscle separation.
Weight fluctuations, major weight loss, aging, and genetics can all contribute to abdominal laxity and diastasis recti. That means tummy tuck candidates aren’t limited to one age group or body type.
If you’ve maintained a steady weight, follow a healthy diet and exercise routine, but still notice stubborn skin or abdominal bulging that doesn’t respond to your efforts, you may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck.
Different Types of Tummy Tucks & Their Ideal Candidates
There are four main types of tummy tucks. Each is named after its incision and designed for a specific level of skin laxity and body contouring goals. The main types include:
- Standard (Full) Tummy Tuck
- Mini Tummy Tuck
- Extended Tummy Tuck
- Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Full/Standard Tummy Tuck?
A full tummy tuck candidate is someone who has loose skin and stretched muscles both above and below the belly button. This is the most common type of abdominoplasty and offers the most balanced, natural-looking contour for the many patients. However, the best tummy tuck for you is the one that suits your anatomy and achieves your goals. Your surgeon will guide you on the best type for you at your consultation.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck candidate typically has mild skin laxity limited to the lower abdomen (below the belly button). Some surgeons include a small degree of muscle tightening, while others do not, making this option best for those who don’t need extensive muscle repair.
Although the word “mini” might sound appealing, many patients find that a full tummy tuck provides a more comprehensive, longer-lasting improvement. Your surgeon will help determine whether a mini or standard tummy tuck aligns best with your anatomy and goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck?
A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck candidate is typically someone who has experienced significant weight loss and now has loose or redundant skin across the upper, lower, and side areas of the abdomen.
Ideal candidates maintain a stable weight and are not currently losing weight. Some surgeons may have BMI or health requirements to ensure optimal safety and results. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss the best surgical approach for your needs and goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Extended Tummy Tuck?
A good extended tummy tuck candidate has excess skin or fullness extending from the abdomen to the hips or flanks. This technique not only tightens the abdomen but also improves contour along the sides of the waist.
Who Is Not a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
You may not be an ideal tummy tuck candidate if you are:
- Actively losing weight or planning major weight loss
- Planning a pregnancy in the near future
Plastic surgeons typically recommend that patients be within about 20% of their goal weight and have maintained it for several months before surgery. Losing significant weight after your tummy tuck can result in new loose skin.
Similarly, those planning pregnancy should consider waiting until they’re finished having children. While it’s possible to have a safe pregnancy after a tummy tuck, pregnancy will likely stretch the skin and muscles again, impacting your results.
Find Out If You’re a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck
The best way to know if you’re a good tummy tuck candidate is through an in-person or virtual consultation with a board-certified or board-eligible plastic surgeon. During your visit, your surgeon will assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and create a personalized surgical plan to help you achieve a flatter, stronger core.