Extended Tummy Tuck in Carmel & Indianapolis
Address the abdomen and flanks with an extended abdominoplasty — for patients with broader skin laxity beyond what a standard tummy tuck can treat.
What Is an Extended Tummy Tuck?
An extended tummy tuck is an abdominoplasty that goes beyond the standard tummy tuck by extending the incision around the flanks — addressing excess skin on the sides of the abdomen in addition to the front. It sits between a standard tummy tuck and a full 360 tummy tuck in scope: it is more comprehensive than standard but does not address the lower back.
Extended abdominoplasty is most often recommended for patients who have significant skin laxity on their flanks — the "love handles" — that would not be adequately treated by a standard horizontal incision. This commonly occurs after significant weight loss or in patients with a broader pattern of abdominal skin excess.
Like a standard tummy tuck, the extended procedure includes muscle repair (repair of diastasis recti), navel repositioning, and removal of excess lower abdominal and flank skin. Liposuction of the flanks and surrounding areas is very commonly combined to optimize the overall result.
Extended Tummy Tuck: Technique
The extended tummy tuck is performed through an incision that runs horizontally below the bikini line — extending beyond the hip points on each side, further than a standard tummy tuck scar but stopping before the lower back. The same core steps as a standard tummy tuck are performed: excess skin and fat are removed, abdominal muscles are repaired, and the navel is repositioned.
Because the incision extends around the flanks, the surgeon can remove excess flank skin directly — rather than relying solely on liposuction, which does not address skin laxity. Liposuction of the flanks, lower back, and surrounding areas is frequently performed simultaneously to achieve the best overall waistline contour.
Who Is a Candidate for an Extended Tummy Tuck?
An extended tummy tuck is right for patients whose skin laxity reaches beyond the front of the abdomen. Key factors Dr. Aker evaluates:
- Excess skin laxity on the flanks (love handles) beyond what a standard tummy tuck can address
- No significant lower back skin concerns — if lower back skin is also a concern, a 360 tummy tuck or body lift may be more appropriate
- Significant weight loss patients, or those with a broader pattern of abdominal skin excess
- Stable weight for at least 6 months
- Good general health, nicotine-free, realistic expectations
You Don't Recover Alone
After surgery, you're driven to our dedicated recovery suite at Home2 Suites by Hilton in Carmel, where one of our caregivers — Evelyn, Lori, or Charmaine — meets you in the lobby and provides monitored overnight care, with a direct line to Dr. Aker, Dr. Beckman, and PA Amanda. You're never sent home to an empty house.
Learn About the Recovery SuiteExtended Tummy Tuck Recovery
Recovery from an extended tummy tuck is very similar to a standard tummy tuck:
- Return to work: 1–2 weeks for most patients
- Compression garment: worn for 4–6 weeks to minimize swelling and support healing
- Activity: light walking encouraged early; strenuous exercise restricted until 4–6 weeks post-surgery
- Swelling: gradually resolves over 12–16 weeks; final results visible as swelling fully clears
Extended Tummy Tuck Cost in Indiana
Extended tummy tuck pricing typically ranges with surgical complexity and whether liposuction is combined. A consultation is required for a personalized quote — financing options available.
Related Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an extended tummy tuck and a 360 tummy tuck?
Who is a candidate for an extended vs. standard tummy tuck?
Where does the extended tummy tuck scar go?
How does recovery compare to a standard tummy tuck?
Can an extended tummy tuck be combined with liposuction?
Is an Extended Tummy Tuck Right for You?
Schedule your consultation with Dr. John Aker or Dr. Di Beckman in Carmel, Indiana. He will evaluate your full anatomy and recommend the procedure that genuinely fits your goals. 4.8★ rated · Board-certified.