Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Explained
A fleur-de-lis (FDL) abdominoplasty is a specialised type of tummy tuck designed to remove excess skin both horizontally and vertically. This tummy tuck technique is so called because the shape of the incision resembles the French symbol, the Fleur de Lis.
It is most commonly performed in patients who have experienced significant weight loss, where there is loose skin not only across the lower abdomen but also through the midline of the abdomen.
What makes it different?
A standard abdominoplasty removes excess skin mainly in the lower abdomen, resulting in a horizontal scar.
A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck adds a vertical incision along the midline, allowing the surgeon to remove excess skin in two directions.
This results in:
- A horizontal scar low on the abdomen
- A vertical scar in the centre
What happens during a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck procedure?
- A horizontal cut is made across the bottom of the abdomen, like a traditional tummy tuck
- A vertical incision is made down through the middle of the abdomen from the sternum to the pubic area
- The plastic surgeon excises redundant skin and tightens up the underlying muscles
- The remaining skin is pulled inwards (horizontally) and downwards (vertically) for a greater tightening effect
- The belly button is relocated so that it will appear natural
Who is fleur-de-lis tummy tuck suitable for?
This procedure is typically recommended for patients who:
- Have undergone significant weight loss (e.g. after bariatric surgery) or weight loss medications
- Have excess skin in both vertical and horizontal directions
- Notice skin laxity in the upper abdomen and central area
- Are at a stable weight
In these cases, a standard tummy tuck may not adequately address the excess skin.
What are the benefits of fleur-de-lis tummy tuck?
A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck can:
- Improve overall abdominal contour
- Remove excess skin more effectively than standard techniques
- Create a flatter and more defined waistline
- Improve comfort with clothing and daily activities
What about the scars?
Scarring is an important aspect worth thinking about. With a traditional tummy tuck, you will have just one scar: a horizontal line that can be hidden beneath your underwear or swimsuit. After a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck, along with such a horizontal scar, there will also be a vertical scar running down your midline. It might show more than the other type of abdominal lift alone, such as a traditional tummy tuck.
While this scar is visible, many patients feel the improvement in contour outweighs the presence of the scar.
Recovery and considerations
Recovery is similar to other tummy tuck procedures, although it may be slightly more involved due to the extent of surgery. Patients can expect:
- Swelling and tightness in the early weeks
- Gradual return to normal activity over several weeks
- Ongoing scar maturation over several months
As with all surgery, careful patient selection and surgical planning are essential.
A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is a powerful contouring procedure for patients with significant skin excess that cannot be addressed with standard techniques.
While it involves additional scarring, it often provides the most effective solution for restoring abdominal shape after major weight loss.
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon can help determine whether this approach is appropriate based on your anatomy and goals.
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