Why the Fleur De Lis (FDL) Tummy Tuck is Great After Massive Weight Loss
Losing a significant amount of weight is a huge accomplishment, but many people are left with loose, excess skin that doesn’t shrink back. Extra skin left behind after bariatric surgery, GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic or Wegovy), or lifestyle changes, can be uncomfortable and hide the results of your hard work—this is where the Fleur De Lis (FDL) tummy tuck comes in.
What Makes the FDL Tummy Tuck Different?
A traditional tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles, but it mainly focuses on the lower abdomen. For patients who have lost a massive amount of weight, sagging skin isn’t just limited to the lower belly—it often extends around the waist and even up to the midsection.
The Fleur De Lis tummy tuck removes excess skin both horizontally and vertically to create a dramatically smoother, more contoured appearance for those who have sagging skin and lingering fat deposits beyond the lower abdomen. The name “Fleur De Lis” comes from the unique incision pattern that resembles a Fleur De Lis symbol (a stylized depiction of the lily or iris flower).
“Had a full tummy tuck with Dr. Lindsay. Really happy with how natural my belly button looks. Core is tighter and posture improved. Very pleased, as is my husband. Fast recovery. I was normal weight, but, after kids…My apron is gone and I can wear so much more. Faster and cheaper than therapy. I am not a professional, but, my experience couldn’t have been better.”
—5-star Google review
Benefits of the Fleur De Lis Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss
Removes large amounts of excess skin
Fleur De Lis tummy tuck incisions allow for the most comprehensive skin removal and reshaping of the waistline. A traditional tummy tuck technique may not be sufficient enough to achieve the body contouring goals for people with a significant amount of loose skin after weight loss.
Enhances body contour
Using a more comprehensive tummy tuck technique allows our expert abdominoplasty surgeons to tighten both the lower and upper abdominal area, for a flatter and more defined midsection that doesn’t leave pouches of skin in untreated areas.
The Fleur De Lis tummy tuck removes excess skin both horizontally and vertically, extending around the waist and even up to the midsection.
Improves comfort and mobility
People with loose skin often experience irritation, chafing, and discomfort between skin folds. Excess skin can even limit mobility, especially when being active. Removing it can alleviate discomfort and hygiene concerns and make an active lifestyle more comfortable.
Boosts confidence
Patients typically feel more comfortable and confident in clothing (and out of it!) after surgery and appreciate that the new figure they achieved is no longer diminished by unwanted skin.
“Dr. Reedy and staff are absolutely amazing. I’m 56 years old and was not happy with my midsection. I was referred by friends to go and see Dr. Reedy. There are no words to describe how well my surgery turned out. Dr. Reedy did an amazing job. I feel like a brand new woman and I can’t get over how my midsection looks now…..altogether I lost like 9-10 inches. I also have a waist and I never had one of them in my whole life. So pleased and very happy with my end results.”
—5-star Google review
FAQs About FDL Tummy Tucks for Massive Weight Loss Patients
Do Fleur De Lis tummy tucks also tighten muscles?
Yes! The FDL tummy tuck includes muscle repair if needed. After massive weight loss, the abdominal muscles often become stretched or separated (a condition known as diastasis recti), and an FDL tummy tuck helps restore core strength and stability.
How is a Fleur De Lis tummy tuck different from a post-weight loss body lift?
The Fleur De Lis tummy tuck focuses primarily on the abdomen and waist, whereas a body lift extends to the lower back, buttocks, and sometimes the thighs. If you have loose skin all around your midsection, a lower body lift may be a better option—or you may choose to combine procedures for a more comprehensive transformation.
What other excess skin removal procedures can be combined with an FDL tummy tuck?
Many massive weight loss patients combine their FDL tummy tuck with additional procedures for more complete body contouring. Common options include:
- Arm lift (brachioplasty) – Removes excess skin and contours the upper arms.
- Thigh lift – Tightens and reshapes the inner or outer thighs.
- Breast lift – Raises and restores breast shape after weight loss.
- Back lift – Addresses excess back fat and loose, sagging skin.
How do I know if the Fleur De Lis Tummy Tuck is right for me?
The best way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons to discuss your goals and determine the right approach for your body. Generally speaking, if you have excess skin in your upper and lower abdomen, you may be a great candidate for the Fleur De Lis tummy tuck.
Our Reading plastic surgeons Dr. Brian K. Reedy and Dr. Scott C. Lindsay specialize in advanced body contouring procedures like the Fleur De Lis tummy tuck. Patients come from Reading, Allentown, and Harrisburg, and travel from out of town because they trust our surgeons’ care and expertise and want the best results possible. Call Berks Plastic Surgery at 610-320-0200 or click the Contact button at the top of this page to schedule your consultation.
