When you’re unable to achieve the toned abdomen that you want despite exercising and dieting appropriately, it may be time to consider a tummy tuck. This is a type of cosmetic body surgery that works to remove excess fat and skin from the abdomen. It helps to create a more toned, flattering abdominal appearance.
There are a few different types of tummy tuck procedures that you can choose from, depending on your specific needs. Dr. Lee explains each of them below.
Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck enhances both the upper and lower portions of the abdomen. Two incisions are made to accommodate this plastic surgery. The first one is considered an umbilical incision and is made at the belly button so that there’s no externally visible scar. The second incision is made below the waistline, where it can be easily hidden by undergarments.
The abdominal skin is pulled down toward that lower incision site, and any excess skin is removed. If the abdominal muscles have experienced separation, such as from a recent pregnancy, they will be sutured back together. This muscle repair is not necessary for every full tummy tuck procedure. Next, the remaining skin is pulled down over the newly contoured abdominal muscles and sutured in place. Most patients can expect it to take around three weeks until they can return to their normal activities.
Mini-Tummy Tuck
A mini-tummy tuck is specifically designed to address problems with the lower abdomen. This is considered the area directly below your belly button. This procedure is ideal for those who have unwanted stretch marks and loose skin in this area of their bodies. A horizontal incision is made between the hip bones during a mini-tummy tuck.
The abdominal skin is pulled downward. Any excess skin is removed, and the muscles are repaired with sutures, if necessary. The remaining skin is positioned over the newly contoured muscles, and sutures are used to close up the incision site. Since a mini-tummy tuck is less invasive than a full tummy tuck, patients tend to heal in just a couple of weeks.
Extended Abdominoplasty
An extended abdominoplasty, also known as an extended tummy tuck, is a combination of both a full tummy tuck and addressing the flanks. This procedure is ideal for patients who have recently lost a significant amount of weight and desire to have their body recontoured. These individuals typically have pounds of excess hanging skin and abdominal muscles that are severely lax.
During an extended tummy tuck, a much larger incision is made so that both flanks can be adequately addressed. Most patients can expect to recover from this type of plastic surgery within about six to eight weeks.
A Note on Liposuction
While liposuction isn’t technically a part of any traditional tummy tuck procedure, it’s commonly added as a secondary procedure. Liposuction can be added to a full tummy tuck, mini-tummy tuck, and even an extended tummy tuck. It works to remove excess fat cells from the treatment site. Liposuction can be particularly helpful when it comes to extended abdominoplasty surgery to address the flanks and the abdomen.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re considering a tummy tuck to achieve that toned, flattering look you’ve always wanted, talk to Dr. Michael J. Lee. Schedule your consultation today and embark on your journey towards a more confident you.
