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(941) 923-1736Have you lost a significant amount of weight but the loose and hanging skin across your stomach is still visible? Does it feel like no matter how much progress you have made, the extra skin makes it difficult for you to fully enjoy your transformation? Even after transforming your health and reaching your goals, that lingering skin can be a constant reminder of where you started. It may interfere with how your clothes fit and cause discomfort.
While your hard work has reshaped your body, certain changes like excess skin may not respond to diet or exercise alone. Here, a Fleur-de-lis Tummy Tuck can help. Dr. Sessa, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, specializes in this advanced procedure. With a focus on providing natural and balanced results, he customizes each Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck for Miami residents to match their body and goals.
A Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck (FDL abdominoplasty) is an advanced body contouring surgery designed for patients with significant skin laxity. Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, which uses only a low horizontal incision, the FDL technique adds a vertical incision through the midline. This allows removal of excess skin in both planes, creating a smoother and narrower waistline.
While a traditional tummy tuck addresses skin laxity primarily in the lower abdomen, it may fall short for patients with significant vertical and central looseness. A Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck provides a more complete solution by addressing:
Additionally, patients often report psychological benefits post-procedure, including improved self-esteem and comfort wearing fitted clothing and swimwear.
You may be a strong candidate if you:
Many practices also prefer a BMI in the low 30s or below and good nutrition to support healing.
Dr. Alberico Sessa begins the Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck by placing two incisions, one horizontal across the lower abdomen and another vertical from the center of the chest down to the pubic area. This dual-incision technique allows him to remove loose skin both vertically and horizontally, which is essential for patients with severe skin laxity, especially after significant weight loss.
After making the incisions, Dr. Sessa tightens the abdominal muscles if there’s any separation, helping to restore core strength and flatten the abdominal wall. Excess skin and tissue are then carefully trimmed, and the belly button is repositioned to match the newly contoured abdomen. Drains may be placed to help prevent fluid buildup during the early stages of healing.
Once the reshaping is complete, Dr. Sessa closes the incisions using advanced techniques to support smooth healing and minimal tension on the skin. The entire procedure usually takes about three to five hours, depending on the patient’s anatomy and surgical goals.
Recovery from a Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is a little more involved than a standard tummy tuck, simply because of the additional incisions and deeper tissue work. However, with the right care and guidance from Dr. Sessa, most individuals can heal smoothly.
During the first 1–2 weeks, you’ll wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support your healing body. Movement is essential, so Dr. Sessa advises walking short distances early on to help prevent blood clots. The discomfort during this time can be managed with prescription medication and careful rest.
By weeks 3–4, you can usually return to light activity. Swelling will subside, and your body will start adjusting to its new shape. This is also when Dr. Sessa may recommend gentle care, such as silicone sheets or ointments, to help optimize your healing.
From weeks 5–8, activity restrictions gradually lift under supervision. Light exercise may resume, and your body will continue refining its contours. In the following months, most patients see their final results between 3 to 6 months post-op, with scars continuing to fade for up to a year.
Pricing for a Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck in Miami depends on a few key factors, including your anatomy, the complexity of the case, the facility you select, and your surgeon’s experience. At Sarasota Surgical Arts, you’ll receive a customized surgical plan and a clear breakdown of all expected costs. This includes everything from anesthesia and operating room to post-operative garments, prescriptions, and follow-up visits.
As with any surgery, a Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck comes with some risks. Though most patients recover well, potential complications include:
The best way to reduce risk is to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and disclose your full medical history. Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for complications, so patients are strongly advised to stop well in advance of surgery.
When it comes to complex procedures like the Fleur-de-lis Tummy Tuck, choosing a certified and experienced surgeon becomes essential. Here are some of the reasons why you should select Dr. Sessa for a Fleur-de-lis Tummy Tuck in Miami:
We are happy to answer your questions and provide the best treatment in Miami. After all, you should feel confident in your decision. Call at (941) 923-1736 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alberico Sessa today.