Researching a T-Abdominoplasty in Turkey, also known as a Fleur-de-Lis (FDL) tuck, is a step for patients with specific needs. This guide explains this advanced procedure, who it is for, and the realistic expectations, safety, and risks involved.
What is a T-Abdominoplasty (Fleur-de-Lis)?
A standard tummy tuck only removes excess skin horizontally, creating one long, low scar. A T-Abdominoplasty is a much larger procedure for patients who also have significant vertical skin laxity (excess skin from side-to-side, not just up-and-down). It involves two incisions:
- One standard horizontal incision (hip-to-hip, hidden low).
- One new vertical incision running from the new navel up to the breastbone.
This is a trade-off: You are trading excess skin for a large, permanent vertical scar.
Clinic Care Center: Expert Warning
When researching a T-Abdominoplasty (also known as a Fleur-de-Lis or FDL), it is vital to understand this is not a standard tummy tuck. A T-Tuck is a major reconstructive procedure only for patients with massive weight loss who have skin laxity in two directions (up-down and side-to-side). The procedure is a trade-off: You are trading this severe excess skin for a permanent, long vertical scar down the center of your abdomen. This scar is not ‘hidden.’ Any clinic offering this to a patient who doesn’t need it is unethical.
Standard Tummy Tuck vs. T-Abdominoplasty (FDL)
| Feature | Standard Tummy Tuck | T-Abdominoplasty (Fleur-de-Lis) |
|---|---|---|
| Who Is It For? | Moderate skin laxity (e.g., post-pregnancy). | Massive weight loss patients ONLY. |
| Skin Removed? | Horizontal (lower belly) only. | Horizontal and Vertical (upper/lower belly). |
| The Scar (The Trade-Off) | One horizontal scar (hip-to-hip). | Horizontal scar PLUS a long Vertical scar. |
| Main Goal | A flat lower abdomen. | Full torso re-contouring. |
Potential Risks & Realistic Expectations
We must be transparent: there is no ‘guaranteed’ outcome or ‘risk-free’ surgery. A T-Abdominoplasty is a much larger procedure than a standard tuck and carries higher risks. These include (but are not limited to): (1) Wound healing complications, especially at the “T-junction” (where the scars meet). (2) Poor, wide, or hypertrophic scarring. (3) Asymmetry. (4) Seroma/Hematoma. The realistic expectation is a dramatic improvement in contour in exchange for two large, visible, lifelong scars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a T-Abdominoplasty (Fleur-de-Lis)?
It is an extended tummy tuck (FDL) that uses both a horizontal and a vertical incision to remove massive excess skin from all directions.
Why do I need a vertical scar for my tummy tuck?
A vertical scar is only necessary if you have significant horizontal (side-to-side) skin laxity that a standard tuck cannot correct.
Am I a good candidate for an FDL tuck?
You are likely a candidate only if you have experienced massive weight loss (e.g., post-bariatric surgery) and have severe skin laxity.
Is the FDL scar very visible?
Yes, the vertical scar runs down the center of the abdomen and is a permanent, visible trade-off for removing the excess skin.
What are the risks of the ‘T-junction’?
The “T-junction” (where the vertical and horizontal scars meet) is the area with the highest tension and poorest blood supply, making it the most common site for wound healing complications.
How much does a T-Abdominoplasty cost in Turkey?
The cost for a Fleur-de-Lis (FDL) tuck in Turkey is higher than a standard tuck due to its complexity, often ranging from €4,500 to €7,000.
When can I fly home after an FDL in Turkey?
Due to the extensive incisions, surgeons typically require a longer stay of at least 10-14 days for safe monitoring and drain removal.
Is this procedure safe for post-bariatric body lift patients?
Yes, it is a standard component of post-bariatric body contouring, but it carries higher risks that must be managed by a specialist surgeon.
Get an Honest Assessment of Your Needs
A safe procedure starts with the correct plan. Not everyone needs a T-Abdominoplasty. The experts at Clinic Care Center prioritize your safety and natural results. Contact us today for an honest consultation to see which procedure is right for your anatomy.
