What is the difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a major surgical procedure that
will remove excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen.
An incision is made across the lower abdomen from hipbone to hipbone. A second incision is made around the belly button.The skin and fat are separated from the abdominal wall. Excess skin and fat are then excised. The abdominal muscles are tightened by shortening them and suturing them together. A small incision creates a new opening for the belly button. It is brought out through the opening sutured to the new skin. Stretch marks and scars may be removed during surgery.
Drains may be placed in the skin and removed a few days later. The drains reduce swelling by collecting excess blood and fluid. All incisions are closed. The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or surgery center as an outpatient procedure with a 10-14 day recovery period. Exercise may be resumed 6 weeks post surgery date.
A mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, may be recommended for patients that are within 10% of their ideal body weight. This procedure is less invasive procedure with a smaller incision. While a full tummy tuck involves an incision around the navel and across the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck leaves the navel intact. Liposuction is sometimes employed and the fat is removed from below the navel, tightening muscles from the navel to the pubis.
If your abdominal muscles require more extensive tightening and your body weight is more than 20% above your ideal weight, your plastic surgeon is more likely to recommend a full abdominoplasty. This frequently is performed with liposuction to obtain the best results.
If you would like more information on a Tummy tuck, please contact our office to make a consultation with Dr. Robbins.
