While an Abdominoplasty aims to remove excess skin from the lower abdomen, the aim of a Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty procedure is to remove excess skin over the whole abdominal area.
Where a standard abdominoplasty only removes excess skin in a horizontal direction, the Fleur de Lis technique is used when it is necessary to remove excess skin in both vertical and horizontal directions. The procedures name, “Fleur de Lis” describes the shape of the area that the specialist surgeon will operate on.
This alternative abdominal procedure may be an option for patients whose loose skin is not only on the lower abdomen but also on the upper belly and side/hip area. Furthermore, a Vertical Abdominoplasty may help patients reshape their abdomen as well as tighter skin.
Am I a Good Candidate for Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty Surgery?
Patients who might be candidates for Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty Surgery generally include patients who;
- Extensive Weight Loss: Patients who have experienced significant weight loss, typically as a result of Bariatric Surgery, diet, or exercise.
- Excess Skin and Fat: Candidates should have a significant amount of excess skin and fat, especially in the upper and lower abdomen.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Candidates should be in good overall health, with stable weight and realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. It is important to understand that this is not a weight loss surgery.
- Non-smokers: Smoking can impair the body’s ability to heal and increase the risk of complications, so it is typically recommended for individuals to quit smoking for a certain period before and after the surgery.
- No Plans for Future Pregnancies: Women who plan to have more children should consider postponing the procedure until they have completed their family, as pregnancy can effect the results of abdominoplasty.
- Commitment to Post-Surgery Care: Candidates should be willing and able to adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by their Surgeon, which may include wearing compression garments, following a healthy diet and maintaining a stable weight.
- Realistic Expectations: It is important for individuals to have a clear understanding of the potential outcomes and limitations of the procedure and to discuss their goals and expectations with their surgeon during the consultation.
What are the Benefits of Fleur De Lis Abdominal Surgery?
Fleur De Lis Abdominal Surgery has many potential benefits including;
Alter Abdomen: Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty addresses excess skin and fat in both the horizontal and vertical directions. It can create a significantly changed abdominal shape.
Repair Abdominal Muscles: This procedure often involves the repair of separated or weakened abdominal muscles, which can occur after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
Increased Comfort: For individuals with a significant amount of loose abdominal skin, this procedure can alleviate discomfort, chafing and rashes caused by the skin folds, making daily activities and exercise easier.
It is important to note that while there are many benefits to the Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty, it is a major surgical procedure and like all surgeries, it carries risks and requires a significant recovery period. To determine if this procedure is suitable for you and to discuss the potential reasons and risks, it is essential to consult with a qualified Plastic Surgeon who can assess your individual needs and goals.
What to Expect during Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty Surgery
Although every surgery is tailored to the patients needs the steps are generally as follows;
- Anaesthesia: The procedure begins with the administration of General Anaesthetic to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.
- Incisions: The surgeon will make a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen, similar to the incision in a standard abdominoplasty. This incision is typically placed low on the abdomen, just above the pubic area.
- Vertical Incision: In addition to the horizontal incision, a vertical incision is made in the center of the abdomen, creating a “T” or “Fleur-de-Lis” pattern. The vertical incision extends from the lower abdomen up towards the breastbone.
- Skin and Fat Removal: Excess skin and fat are removed from both the upper and lower abdominal areas. The vertical incision allows for removal of tissue in both directions, addressing horizontal and vertical laxity.
- Muscle Repair: If necessary, the surgeon may repair or tighten the abdominal muscles. This step is for patients who have muscle separation (Diastasis Recti) due to pregnancy or significant weight loss.
- Redraping and Closure: After excess tissue is removed and muscles are tightened, the remaining skin is redraped and sutured into place. The incisions are closed with sutures, resulting in the Fleur-de-Lis pattern.
- Drains and Dressings: Drains may be placed under the skin to collect excess fluid and prevent seroma formation. Sterile dressings and a compression garment are often applied to support the healing process and reduce swelling.
- Recovery and Observation: After the surgery is completed, the patient is moved to a recovery area to wake up from the anaesthetic . They are closely monitored for any immediate post-operative complications.
Risks and Complications
Like all invasive surgery a Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty has several risks and potential complications. This can include but are not limited to;
- Anaesthetic risks
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Scarring
- Seroma and Haematoma
- Numbness and changes in sensation
- Asymmetry
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
- Unsatisfactory result
- Loss of skin or tissue
- Need for revision surgery
All surgery has risks, for detailed information about the risks and potential complications of Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty Surgery, please visit the risks of surgery page.
Recovery
Pain and discomfort are common after surgery. Your Surgeon will prescribe pain medications to help manage any discomfort. Follow your Surgeon’s instructions for taking these medications.
You will be provided with a compression garment or abdominal binder to wear. This helps reduce swelling, support the surgical area, and aid in healing. It is essential to wear the compression garment as instructed by your surgeon.
Rest is crucial during the initial recovery phase. Avoid strenuous activities, lifting heavy objects, and bending at the waist. Most people can return to light, non-strenuous activities within a few weeks, but vigorous exercise will need to be avoided until cleared by your surgeon.
Keep incisions clean and dry and follow your Surgeon’s instructions for wound care. Monitor for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or discharge at the incision sites. Swelling and bruising are common after this surgery. They will peak in the days following the procedure and gradually subside over several weeks. Pay attention to your body and report any concerning symptoms or complications to your surgeon promptly.
Regular follow up appointments with your Surgeon are necessary to monitor healing and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
Recovery times can vary, but most people can expect to return to their regular routines within a few weeks to a few months. It is important to follow your Surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully as they are tailored to your specific situation. Additionally, be patient with the healing process as it may take several months for swelling to fully subside and for scars to fade.
How Much Does a Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty Cost?
The cost of surgery can be influenced by several factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the Surgeon’s fees, the Anaesthetist’s fees, length of hospital stay and other related expenses.
For accurate and personalised information regarding the cost of your surgery, it is best to schedule a consultation with a qualified Plastic Surgeon. During the consultation they can provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved and address any specific concerns you may have.
In certain cases, such as after massive weight loss, Medicare may provide coverage for abdominoplasty under specific conditions. It’s advisable to refer to the specific criteria for Medicare coverage for abdominoplasty or consult with your healthcare provider for more information.
Further Reading Fleur De Lis – Medical References
- Abdominal Contour Surgery for the Massive Weight Loss Patient: The Fleur-De-Lis Approach
- The History of The Fleur-de-lis Technique: a Review of The Literature and Case Report
- Body contouring surgery following massive weight loss
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery- Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty: a safe alternative to traditional abdominoplasty for the massive weight loss patient
- Annals of Plastic Surgery- Modified Fleur-de-lis Abdominoplasty for Massive Weight Loss Patients
- Aesthet Surgery Journal– Abdominal Contour Surgery for the Massive Weight Loss Patient: The Fleur-De-Lis Approach
Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty FAQ
How do I know if I need a classic Abdominoplasty or Fleur De Lis Surgery?
- Fleur De Lis is a procedure for patients who have a large amount of excess skin in both the lower and upper abdomen.
- While a Abdominoplasty is a better option for those who encounter excess skin only in the lower abdominal wall.
Can I undergo Fleur De Lis if I am obese?
- People who suffer from overweight disorders (morbid obesity) are generally not good candidates for this procedure.
- Contact our specialist surgeon for more information.
Is Fleur De Lis a permanent weight loss surgery such as gastric bypass surgery?
- No, Fleur De Lis is not a surgery to attain permanent weight loss. Therefore it is not similar to gastric bypass surgery.
- Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that decreases the volume of the stomach to induce early satiety.
- While Fleur De Lis is a procedure that is done to remove excess overhanging skin after significant weight loss. Either by natural means such as exercise and diet or via surgical procedures such as gastric bypass.
If I have high blood pressure and diabetes, am I a suitable candidate for Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty?
- All patients will go through a Anaesthetic evaluation to assess the risk of surgery.
- Patients that are found fit during the assessment can then undergo the surgery.
- Generally speaking, hypertension and diabetes are not contraindications to surgical procedures. As long as they are under control with medications prior to and during the surgery.
Is there an age limit that determines a good candidate for vertical abdominoplasty?
FDL Surgery is a procedure that can be done on all adult patients. Provided they meet the rules of the professional, as well as the prerequisites to be good candidates for FLeur De Lis Surgery.
When can I start driving?
- Generally patients can start driving again around 2 weeks post-op.
- However only for short distances.
- If you are taking any pain medication, you should avoid driving until you have stopped taking it.
How to Book your Initial Consultation
- Email us on reception@cocoruby.com.au or Call on (03) 8849 1400 to arrange your surgeon consultation appointment, or
- A Referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or from your Medical Specialist is required (as of 1st July 2023).
- A consultation with one of our surgeons is $300.00