Fleur de Lis abdominoplasty is an advanced body contouring procedure specifically designed for patients who have experienced massive weight loss and are left with significant excess skin in both the vertical and horizontal planes of the abdomen. Unlike a traditional tummy tuck that only addresses skin horizontally, this specialized technique uses both a horizontal incision along the lower abdomen and a vertical midline incision, creating an inverted T-shaped scar that allows Dr. Beth Collins to remove substantially more excess tissue and achieve comprehensive contouring.
With over 16 years of surgical experience and specialized fellowship training in body contouring, Dr. Collins is one of the few surgeons in Connecticut performing this advanced technique to help patients complete their weight loss journey with confidence.
Treatable Areas
- Lower abdomen (horizontal excess)
- Upper and mid-abdomen (vertical excess)
- Waistline and flanks (lateral excess)
- Separated or weakened abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
- Large skin folds and aprons following massive weight loss
- Stretch marks across multiple abdominal planes
- Mons pubis elevation
How Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty Works
The Fleur de Lis technique addresses excess skin in two directions simultaneously. Dr. Collins creates a horizontal incision low on the abdomen (similar to a traditional tummy tuck) and adds a vertical incision along the midline, forming an inverted T-pattern that allows for maximum skin removal and tightening. This dual-plane approach is essential for patients with massive weight loss, as it pulls skin downward from the upper abdomen and inward from the waist area, addressing laxity that extends in multiple directions.
During the procedure, which typically takes 3 to 5 hours under general anesthesia, Dr. Collins removes large amounts of excess skin and fat, repairs separated abdominal muscles to strengthen your core, and repositions your belly button to a natural, proportionate location. The remaining skin is meticulously sutured using advanced closure techniques that minimize scarring and promote optimal healing. While this procedure does result in visible scars – one horizontal and one vertical – most patients find this trade-off worthwhile for the dramatic improvement in body contour, comfort, and quality of life.
Whether you need surgical precision, metabolic wellness, or non-surgical refinement, we look at the big picture. Let’s design a unified treatment plan that addresses your health and beauty under one roof.
Results You’ll Love
- Comprehensive removal of excess skin in both vertical and horizontal planes
- A dramatically flatter, firmer abdominal profile
- Significant narrowing of the waistline for improved body proportions
- Relief from chronic skin irritation, rashes, and chafing caused by skin folds
- Improved ability to exercise and move freely without excess tissue interference
- Better clothing fit and confidence in form-fitting outfits
- Strengthened core and improved posture through muscle repair
- Long-lasting, permanent results when maintained with a healthy lifestyle
Are You a Candidate for Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty?
- You’ve lost 50 to 100+ pounds and have significant excess skin remaining
- You have loose, hanging skin in both the upper and lower abdomen
- You experience skin folds that cause irritation, rashes, or limit mobility
- You’ve maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months
- Traditional abdominoplasty won’t adequately address your degree of skin excess
Why Choose The Collins Center
- Fellowship-trained body contouring specialist – Dr. Collins completed specialized training in body contouring procedures and is one of the few surgeons performing advanced body contouring techniques in New England
- Double board-certified plastic surgeon – Board certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery, with training from Emory University, one of the top plastic surgery programs in the country
- 16+ years of surgical expertise – With over a decade and a half of dedicated surgical practice, Dr. Collins brings proven experience and refined technique to complex procedures
- Physician-led care with medical oversight – Every aspect of your treatment is overseen by Dr. Collins, ensuring the highest standard of safety and results grounded in medical science
- Empathetic, patient-centered approach – Dr. Collins’ personal experience with surgical recovery and body transformation enables authentic empathy for the physical and emotional aspects of your journey.
FAQs about Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty
How long is recovery after Fleur de Lis abdominoplasty?
Full recovery takes approximately 3 to 6 months, with most patients returning to normal daily activities around 6 weeks post-surgery. The first week is the most challenging, requiring significant rest and pain management. High-impact exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 3 to 6 months to ensure proper healing.
What will the scars look like?
This procedure creates two scars: a horizontal scar low on the abdomen (similar to a traditional tummy tuck) and a vertical scar along the midline. The vertical scar is more visible than with standard abdominoplasty, but scars fade gradually over 12 to 24 months and can be further improved with scar treatments. Most patients find the dramatic improvement in body contour worth this trade-off.
How long does the surgery take?
Fleur de Lis abdominoplasty typically takes 3 to 5 hours to complete, depending on the extent of tissue removal and whether additional procedures are performed simultaneously.
Will I need drains after surgery?
Most patients will have surgical drains placed to prevent fluid accumulation during the initial healing phase. These drains are typically removed within 1 to 2 weeks post-surgery, though some advanced techniques may minimize drain usage.
When will I see my final results?
You’ll notice significant improvement immediately after surgery, but visible results become more apparent after 3 months once initial swelling subsides. Final results emerge around 12 months when residual swelling has fully resolved and scars have matured.
Can I get pregnant after Fleur de Lis abdominoplasty?
While pregnancy is possible after this procedure, it’s recommended to wait at least 12 months post-surgery before becoming pregnant, as pregnancy can compromise your surgical results. It’s best to complete this procedure after you’ve finished having children.
Will insurance cover this procedure?
Coverage varies by insurance provider and individual circumstances. Some patients with documented medical issues related to excess skin (such as chronic infections or rashes) may qualify for partial coverage, but this is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The Collins Center can assist with documentation for insurance submissions.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Collins today and discover how Fleur de Lis abdominoplasty can help you achieve the body contours you’ve worked so hard to earn.
