Reverse Tummy Tuck Miami

Many Miami residents frustrated by loose upper abdominal skin struggle to find clear information about the reverse tummy tuck. Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, which focuses on the lower belly, this procedure targets sagging above the navel, a problem that weight loss, aging, or genetics can worsen. Yet, few surgeons specialize in it, and concerns about scarring or limited options often leave patients feeling stuck.

At Sarasota Surgical Arts, Dr. Alberico Sessa offers reverse tummy tuck as a focused option for select patients from the Miami area who need upper‑abdominal tightening and skin removal through an incision designed to be concealed in bras and most swimwear.

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What Is a Reverse Tummy Tuck?

A reverse tummy tuck (or upper abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure designed to tighten loose, sagging skin in the upper abdomen, the area between the belly button and the lower breast crease. Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, which focuses on the lower belly, this technique corrects excess skin and laxity above the navel, often caused by, significant weight loss, aging, pregnancy and genetics.

How It Works:

  • Incision Placement: A horizontal incision is made along the lower breast crease (inframammary fold), allowing scars to be concealed under a bra or swimsuit.
  • Skin Tightening: Excess skin is removed, and the remaining tissue is repositioned for a smoother contour.
  • Muscle Repair (if needed): Weak or separated upper abdominal muscles may be tightened for added firmness.
  • Combination Options: Some patients combine it with liposuction for flank or back fat to enhance overall shape.
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Who Is a Candidate for a Reverse Tummy Tuck?

For Miami patients, where beachwear and fitted styles are part of daily life, a reverse tummy tuck offers a targeted solution for upper abdominal concerns without the extensive recovery of a full tummy tuck. Dr. Sessa will evaluate your unique needs, considering Miami’s active lifestyle, your aesthetic goals, and whether this approach delivers the best results. You Could Be an Ideal Candidate If you have:

  • Upper abdominal laxity as their primary concern: If loose skin and sagging are concentrated between your ribcage and belly button, rather than the lower abdomen, the procedure can precisely correct the issue while leaving minimal visible scarring. For Miami patients who enjoy swimwear and fitted styles, the incision is strategically placed to remain hidden under bikini tops or athletic wear.
  • Weakened upper abdominal muscle: The procedure allows for targeted muscle repair in the upper abdomen, restoring a firmer contour that traditional tummy tucks don’t address.
  • Interest in revision or combination surgery: Many Miami patients opt to pair a reverse tummy tuck with a breast lift or augmentation, as the incision follows the same natural crease. Liposuction for flank or bra-line fat is also commonly added to refine the overall silhouette.
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Benefits You Can Expect

If you’re a good candidate, a reverse tummy tuck can produce a more balanced upper‑to‑lower abdominal contour. Many Miami patients often choose it to avoid over‑treating the lower abdomen when that area looks acceptable.

  • Upper‑focused contouring: The technique targets the upper abdomen for skin removal, fat reduction, and muscle repair where needed.
  • Scar placement designed for concealment: The incision follows the inframammary fold, which is typically hidden by bras and most swimwear styles.
  • Streamlined combinations: When appropriate, it can be combined with breast procedures or selective liposuction in a single operative plan, avoiding the need for multiple time-offs and separate recovery periods.

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Reverse Tummy Tuck vs. Traditional Tummy Tuck

Both surgeries aim to create a flatter, smoother abdomen, but they approach different zones. Use the guide below to see which description aligns more with your priorities; your exam will confirm the right fit.

Reverse Tummy Tuck (upper‑focused)

This specialized technique addresses excess skin and muscle laxity in the upper abdomen, between the ribcage and belly button. The incision is discreetly placed within the inframammary fold (where the breast meets the chest), making it easily concealable under bras or swimwear. It is less commonly needed and is frequently used for revisions or combined breast procedures.

Traditional Tummy Tuck (lower‑focused)

The standard tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen, where skin laxity and muscle separation (diastasis recti) are most pronounced. The incision sits low on the abdomen, allowing comprehensive muscle repair (including diastasis along the wall) and recreation/positioning of the belly button as needed. It’s among the most frequently performed body procedures in the U.S.

Your Consultation with Dr Sessa

During your consultation with Dr. Sessa at Sarasota Surgical Arts, he will review your medical history, previous procedures, and your goals. He will then examine skin quality, fat distribution, and muscle support to determine the most suitable approach, whether reverse, traditional, or hybrid. You’ll leave with a personalized plan, a customized price quote, and information on financing.

The Procedure Day at Sarasota Surgical Arts

Dr. Sessa performs reverse tummy tucks, focusing on your safety and desired outcome. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the surgery day:

  • Incision placement: The procedure begins with a carefully measured incision along the inframammary fold (where the breast meets the chest wall). The length varies based on your anatomy, but it is designed to be concealed under bras or swimwear.
  • Muscle repair (if needed): If you have weakened or separated upper abdominal muscles, Dr. Sessa will tighten them through plication (stitching the muscles into a firmer position).
  • Fat removal: Excess fat in the upper abdomen may be contoured through liposuction or direct excision for a smoother shape.
  • Skin tightening: The underlying tissues are secured, and any loose skin is trimmed before redraping for a taut, natural-looking result.
  • Incision closure: The incision is closed meticulously to minimize visible scarring, with techniques tailored to promote optimal healing.

The surgery typically takes 1–3 hours, though combining it with other procedures (like a breast lift) may extend the overall time.

Recovery Timeline

Most patients spend an hour or two in monitored recovery before heading home with a caregiver. Swelling and bruising peak in the first few days; temporary tightness, itching, or numbness near the incision are common and improve as healing progresses.

Many patients take about a week off from non‑physical work; those with strenuous jobs may need a longer, phased return. Dr. Sessa provides individualized guidance on activity, garment use, and follow‑ups.

Why Miami Patients Choose Sarasota Surgical Arts

Miami residents, from Coral Gables to Doral, choose Sarasota Surgical Arts for its combination of expertise, safety, and personalized care. The practice features an accredited on-site surgical center, ensuring smooth treatment from consultation through recovery.

Dr. Alberico Sessa, a board-certified surgeon with 18+ years and 25,000+ procedures performed, specializes in nuanced techniques like reverse tummy tucks. His commitment to patient education and proven results provides confidence for those considering this specialized procedure.

Achieve a Toned Upper Abdomen With Sarasota Surgical Arts

If loose skin or muscle laxity in your upper abdomen has been bothering you, let's determine the best solution together. Schedule your personalized tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Sessa to discuss whether a reverse tummy tuck or alternative procedure aligns with your goals. Call (941) 923-1736 or click here to book your slot.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • How long does a reverse tummy tuck last?

    Results from a reverse tummy tuck are generally long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Significant weight changes or future pregnancies can affect the outcome over time.

  • How is a reverse tummy tuck done?

    The procedure is performed under general anesthesia with an incision along the inframammary fold (under the breasts). Through this incision, the surgeon removes excess upper abdominal skin, tightens muscles if needed, and re-drapes the tissue for a smoother contour.

  • What is the difference between a tummy tuck and a reverse tummy tuck?

    A tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen, using an incision along the lower bikini line and often repositioning the belly button. A reverse tummy tuck targets the upper abdomen through an incision beneath the breasts, leaving the belly button untouched.

  • Is a reverse tummy tuck worth it?

    For patients whose main concern is loose skin or muscle laxity above the belly button, it can be very effective. When performed on the right candidate, it offers focused improvement without unnecessary lower abdominal surgery.

TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH DR. SESSA AT SARASOTA SURGICAL ARTS, CALL (941) 923-1736 TODAY.

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