An extended tummy tuck (extended abdominoplasty) is a more comprehensive version of a standard tummy tuck designed for people whose loose skin and fat extend beyond the front of the abdomen to the flanks and toward the lower back. Instead of stopping at the hip bones, the incision gently curves around the sides, allowing surgeon to remove a wider “belt” of tissue and sculpt a smoother, more defined waistline.
Compared with a regular tummy tuck that mainly flattens the front of the abdomen (see the main tummy tuck in Los Angeles page), an extended tummy tuck is ideal for patients after significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies who have skin laxity wrapping around the waist. It also treats more area than a mini tummy tuck, which only tightens a small amount of tissue under the belly button, and it avoids the vertical midline scar used in a Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck reserved for massive central excess.
As a board-certified general surgeon and board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Babak Moein combines body-contouring artistry with a deep understanding and safe, anatomy-focused technique. At Moein Surgical Arts in Los Angeles, he performs extended abdominoplasty procedures tailored for patients who need more than a traditional tummy tuck, often integrating advanced VASER liposuction and his expertise in post-bariatric body contouring.
A circumferential body lift extends the incision completely around the body and lifts the buttocks and outer thighs, as well as the abdomen and flanks. This is typically reserved for patients after huge weight loss who have circumferential laxity of the trunk and lower body.
An extended tummy tuck focuses on the front abdomen and flanks, sometimes extending slightly onto the lower back, without the full 360° lifting of a lower body lift.
Compared with a standard abdominoplasty, an Extended Tummy Tuck in Los Angeles offers several key advantages for the right patient.
By extending the incision around the sides, Dr. Moein can more effectively remove loose skin and fat that hides the natural curve of the waist.
Many patients see a more cinched, sculpted waistline that is visible both from the front and oblique views.
Rather than relying on liposuction alone for the flanks, extended tummy tuck surgery allows direct removal of redundant side tissue. When paired with flank or lower back liposuction, it creates a smoother transition from abdomen to waist to lower back.
In patients with separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), Dr. Moein can repair and tighten the muscle wall as part of the extended abdominoplasty. This can:
Because of his general surgery training, Dr. Moein can often repair small umbilical or ventral hernias at the same time as the tummy tuck when appropriate, avoiding multiple operations and creating a more secure abdominal wall. (Larger or complex hernias may require a staged approach.)
Patients frequently report:
These non-quantifiable improvements are often as meaningful as the aesthetic change itself.
You may be a good candidate for an Extended Tummy Tuck in Los Angeles if you recognize yourself in any of the groups below.
| ✔ | Post-pregnancy patients who are finished having children, at or near a stable weight, and bothered by loose skin, diastasis recti, and stubborn flank fat. |
| ✔ | Patients after significant weight loss (surgical or non-surgical) who are left with a circumferential “belt” of excess skin and are planning staged body contouring in Los Angeles. |
| ✔ | Bariatric and plus-size tummy tuck candidates who have achieved a meaningful drop in weight, stabilized at a new baseline, and been medically cleared for extended abdominoplasty. |
| ✔ | Patients with severe flank laxity whose side tissue folds over clothing or hangs at the waist, even if the front abdomen is less lax. |
| ✔ | Patients seeking broader 360° contouring who want improvement not only in the front of the abdomen but also along the waistline and toward the lower back. |
Extended abdominoplasty is often combined with Liposuction or VASER lipo of the flanks, back, or hips for patients who genuinely want a 360° contouring effect. For a better sense of potential improvements to the flanks, you can review Dr. Moein’s lipo of flanks before and after photos
Every Extended Tummy Tuck in Los Angeles is tailored to the individual, but most operations under Dr. Moein’s care follow these core steps.
The incision is placed low on the abdomen, so it can usually be hidden by underwear or swimwear. For an extended tummy tuck, the incision:
During pre-op
The abdominal skin and fat are carefully elevated from the underlying muscles in a controlled plane. When there is muscle separation (diastasis recti), Dr. Moein performs muscle plication, bringing the rectus muscles back toward the midline to create a flatter, stronger abdominal wall.
A defining feature of extended abdominoplasty is the removal of excess tissue at the flanks and lateral waist. By excising this belt-like skin and fat, the surgery treats loose skin after weight loss and creates smoother lines from the front abdomen around to the sides.
In many cases, Dr. Moein enhances the surgical result with VASER liposuction of the flanks, back, or upper abdomen. This helps:
Anesthesia and Safety at Moein Surgical Arts
Extended tummy tucks are performed at Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, an accredited facility staffed by experienced anesthesia professionals. Safety measures typically include:
| Recovery Phase | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–7 | Walking slightly bent at the waist; peak bruising and swelling; compression garment worn almost full-time; drains may be in place; short, frequent walks to reduce clot risk. |
| Weeks 2–3 | Standing more upright with easier movement; many patients return to desk work; bruising fades and swelling slowly improves; drain sites and incisions continue to heal. |
| Weeks 4–6 | Light cardio (walking, gentle cycling) often allowed; heavy lifting and core work still restricted; ongoing compression helps contour and supports extended tummy tuck scars. |
| Months 3–6 | Most patients cleared for full exercise by about 8–10 weeks; scars soften and fade over time; swelling continues to decline and the final waistline becomes more visible. Long-term scar care may include silicone, sun protection, and optional laser treatments. |
The recovery process following an extended tummy tuck typically requires adequate rest and adherence to post-operative instructions, including wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activities. While each patient’s experience may vary, it is important to note that the recovery period can last several weeks to months, during which the body gradually heals and the final results slowly emerge.
Extended tummy tuck cost in Los Angeles is higher than that of a mini or standard tummy tuck because:
Your total investment usually includes:
Each body is different; therefore, giving a one-size-fits-all number is misleading. Dr. Moein provides a personalized quote after examining your anatomy, discussing your goals, and designing a complete plan.
f you would like to explore pricing for other body contouring options, you can review our dedicated cost guides, including Sono Bello cost in Los Angeles and our detailed liposuction cost page. These resources provide additional context on fees, treatment options, and value across different approaches.
If you are searching for the best tummy tuck surgeon in Los Angeles, several qualities make Dr. Babak Moein stand out:
Dual training and board certification – Board-certified in general surgery and cosmetic surgery, he combines deep anatomical expertise with refined aesthetic judgment.
Decades of focused experience – Over 20 years of operating, including bariatric and post–weight loss body contouring, give him special insight into extended tummy tuck and complex cases.
Specialized approach for men and women – Dr. Moein tailors his technique to male and female body types, with a dedicated male tummy tuck option that can be combined with extended abdominoplasty when appropriate.
Accredited, safety-focused surgical center and compassionate care – Procedures are performed at Beverly Century Surgical Center with experienced anesthesia providers, strict safety protocols, and a patient-centered plan built around your goals and lifestyle
If you are considering an Extended Tummy Tuck in Los Angeles, the next step is a private, in-depth consultation at Moein Surgical Arts.
At your visit, Dr. Moein will:
Moein Surgical Arts – Los Angeles Office
2080 Century Park East, Suite 509
Los Angeles, CA 90067 Moein Surgical Arts
To schedule your consultation, call (310) 455-8020 or submit the contact form on the practice website to request an appointment with Dr. Moein.
Typically, for those patients who have loose skin and excess fat in the abdomen and flank areas, and are generally healthy and of stable weight.
In full tummy tuck surgery, the abdomen is essentially dealt with, whereas in Extended Tummy Tuck in Los Angeles, the flanks are also tightened for achieving the 360° type of waistline.
Yes, extended abdominoplasty may be particularly well-suited for plus size tummy tuck and weight loss tummy tuck patients due to their abdomen “belt” of excess skin.
Patients are able to resume light office work in about 2 to 3 weeks and more strenuous activities in about 6 to 8 weeks, as advised by Dr. Moein.
In Los Angeles, extended tummy tuck surgery typically ranges from about $15,000 to $25,000, depending on your anatomy, BMI, and whether additional procedures such as VASER liposuction are included.
Yes, it may be done in combination with VASER liposuction of the side, back, or buttock area, or in some instances, additional surgeries of the breast area.
It is longer than a standard tummy tuck and situated low to blend in with most types of lingerie and swimwear and tends to fade away over time when taken care of properly.
