The FDL Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss: Is It Right for You?

Losing a significant amount of weight is a major accomplishment that leads to improved health, confidence, and mobility. However, many individuals find that even after reaching their goal weight, they are left with excess skin that won’t tighten on its own. This is especially common in those who have lost over 100 pounds through bariatric surgery or other weight loss methods. For those seeking a more contoured and defined midsection, Fleur-de-Lis (FDL) abdominoplasty may be the solution. At AMG Plastic Surgery in Northern Virginia, Dr. Ghaznavi specializes in FDL surgery to help patients complete their weight loss journey by removing excess skin and reshaping the abdomen.

What Is FDL Surgery?

Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty is a specialized tummy tuck designed for individuals with significant skin laxity. Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, which only removes excess skin from the lower abdomen, FDL surgery involves both a horizontal and vertical incision to address more extensive skin redundancy. The vertical component of the incision allows for additional tightening across the midsection, creating a more sculpted appearance.

This procedure is particularly beneficial for post-bariatric patients or those who have experienced dramatic weight loss and are left with loose, hanging skin that affects their mobility, hygiene, and confidence.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for FDL Surgery?

Not everyone who loses weight will require an FDL abdominoplasty, but ideal candidates typically share the following characteristics:

• Significant Weight Loss Individuals who have lost a large amount of weight (typically 100 pounds or more) and have substantial excess skin.
• Excess Skin Across the Midsection Those with sagging skin in both the lower abdomen and upper torso.
• Good General Health Candidates should be non-smokers and free from major medical conditions that could impair healing.
• Stable Weight It is best to undergo FDL surgery when weight loss has plateaued for at least six months.
• Realistic Expectations Understanding the procedure, recovery time, and potential scarring is essential before undergoing surgery.

The Benefits of FDL Surgery

FDL abdominoplasty offers several advantages beyond just cosmetic enhancement:

• Improved Mobility Removing excess skin can make movement and exercise easier.
• Better Hygiene Folds of loose skin can trap moisture, leading to irritation and infections.
• Increased Confidence Many patients feel more comfortable in clothing and swimwear after surgery.
• Stronger Core The procedure often involves muscle repair, which enhances core strength and posture.

The Recovery Process

Like any major surgery, FDL abdominoplasty requires a dedicated recovery period. Patients can expect:

• 1 to 2 Weeks Off Work Most individuals need at least two weeks of downtime before returning to non-strenuous activities.
• Compression Garment Use Wearing a compression garment for several weeks helps reduce swelling and supports healing.
• Limited Physical Activity Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least six weeks.
• Visible Scars That Fade Over Time While FDL surgery leaves a vertical scar, its visibility diminishes with proper post-operative care.

Why Choose AMG Plastic Surgery in Northern Virginia?

Dr. Ghaznavi and the team at AMG Plastic Surgery are dedicated to helping patients complete their weight loss transformation with expert surgical care. With extensive experience in body contouring procedures, Dr. Ghaznavi customizes each FDL surgery to match the patient’s unique anatomy and goals.

If you’re struggling with excess skin after weight loss, schedule a consultation with AMG Plastic Surgery today. Let us help you achieve the body contour you deserve and embrace your new confidence.