Reverse Abdominoplasty in Baltimore, Maryland
Not all abdominal laxity occurs below the belly button. For some patients, especially those who have undergone significant weight loss, previous abdominal surgery, pregnancy, or the effects of aging, the skin above the navel can become loose or sag downward. Reverse abdominoplasty addresses this specific concern, helping to tighten and elevate the upper abdominal skin for a more balanced and contoured silhouette.
At her Baltimore practice, Dr. Michele Shermak offers reverse abdominoplasty to select patients seeking targeted rejuvenation of the upper abdomen. With over 26 years of experience and national recognition in body contouring, Dr. Shermak performs this procedure with exceptional precision, often combining it with breast surgery or other contouring procedures for comprehensive results. To find out if reverse abdominoplasty is right for you, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Shermak at her Lutherville office.
Reverse abdominoplasty, also known as a reverse tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tightens the upper portion of the abdomen.
Instead of pulling skin downward, as in a traditional tummy tuck, this technique lifts the skin upward toward the chest. The incision is placed in the inframammary fold—the natural crease beneath the breasts or chest—making it discreet even in swimwear.
This procedure is ideal for patients who have significant laxity in the upper abdomen but do not require or wish to undergo full abdominoplasty. It's commonly considered by those who’ve undergone significant weight loss or women experiencing post-pregnancy skin changes isolated to the upper abdominal region.
Dr. Shermak performs reverse abdominoplasty in her fully accredited surgical facility. After marking the areas to be lifted, she makes an incision hidden in the fold under the breasts or chest. From there, the loose upper abdominal skin is gently lifted, and excess tissue is removed. The skin is then reattached in a tighter, more elevated position. For women, reverse abdominoplasty is frequently paired with breast surgery to maximize the aesthetic benefit and share the incision line.
Reverse abdominoplasty treats skin laxity located above the belly button—an area often resistant to improvement with exercise alone. It is particularly helpful for patients with:
By elevating and smoothing this area, the procedure helps create a tighter, more youthful contour that flows naturally into the chest and lower abdomen.
Reverse abdominoplasty can provide dramatic yet natural-looking improvements for patients who are concerned about the upper abdominal skin. Benefits include:
Candidates for reverse abdominoplasty should be in good general health and have realistic expectations for the procedure. This procedure is especially effective for individuals who:
Patients who need full abdominal tightening may benefit more from a traditional abdominoplasty. During your consultation, Dr. Shermak will help determine the best approach based on your anatomy and goals.
Recovery after reverse abdominoplasty is usually smooth and straightforward. Most patients return home the same day and are up and moving within 24–48 hours. There may be some bruising, swelling, and a feeling of tightness in the upper abdomen, which typically improves within one to two weeks. It takes at least 6 weeks for a pleated appearance to smooth.
Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4 weeks. Return to strenuous activities may take longer if the procedure is combined with breast surgery. Dr. Shermak and her team provide personalized aftercare instructions and will follow your recovery closely to ensure a comfortable and successful outcome.
Patients can expect a flatter, firmer upper abdomen that blends naturally with the rest of the torso. Skin folds and creases are smoothed out, and the entire midsection appears more toned and lifted.
The results of a reverse abdominoplasty are long-lasting, especially when supported by a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Scars are discreetly placed and tend to fade significantly over time.
Dr. Michele Shermak is a national and international leader in body contouring, with decades of experience refining and developing surgical techniques for patients undergoing post-weight-loss procedures. She is the author of a surgical textbook on body contouring and multiple chapters in other textbooks, and has provided education in international meetings for decades.
Her boutique practice in Baltimore is known for pairing technical excellence with deeply personalized care. Patients trust Dr. Shermak not just for her reputation, but for her thoughtful, hands-on approach and meticulous aesthetic results. Many travel from across the country and globe to benefit from Dr. Shermak’s care.
No, reverse abdominoplasty targets the upper abdomen, while a traditional tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen and muscle repair. They are typically staged at least 4-6 months apart if both areas need improvement.
The incision is placed in the natural fold beneath the breasts, making it easy to conceal—even in swimwear or lingerie. There will be some initial pleating which smooths quickly, typically within 6 weeks to 4 months.
Yes. Reverse abdominoplasty is commonly combined with breast lift, breast augmentation, upper back lift or arm lift procedures. Dr. Shermak will help you plan a customized treatment that fits your goals.
Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort that improves within a few days. Dr. Shermak employs gentle techniques and offers personalized aftercare to help manage pain effectively. She uses long acting numbing medication which lasts up to 4 days and relies heavily on non-narcotic pain management, with allowance of narcotic medicaiton early to allow early mobilization after surgery.
Most patients feel ready to return to desk work and light activity within 1-2 weeks, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for 4 weeks.
Yes. Reverse abdominoplasty is an excellent option for post-weight loss patients with remaining upper abdominal laxity and residual skin pockets. Dr. Shermak often includes this procedure in customized post-weight loss surgery plans, often staging reverse abdominoplasty after tummy tuck procedures.
Yes. As long as you maintain a stable weight, the results of reverse abdominoplasty are long-lasting. Skin does continue to age naturally, but the improvements will remain visible.
Absolutely. Both men and women with upper abdominal skin laxity can also benefit from this procedure.
Dr. Shermak is an international expert in body contouring, with decades of experience and authorship of a textbook on the subject. She has trained other surgeons in these techniques and is recognized for her outstanding results. She has been recognized by her patients and colleagues as confirmed by her status as a top plastic surgeon in Baltimore Magazine, Style Magazine, and Newsweek.
