Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery
Partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini tummy tuck, is a plastic surgery procedure used to sculpt the abdominal region. During the mini tummy tuck, excess fat and skin is removed. This form of abdominoplasty is popular among women who have given birth, as well as both women and men who have lost a significant amount of weight. Both of these circumstances can result in excess fat and loose skin in the abdominal region, which dieting and exercise may be ineffective at removing. A mini tummy tuck can achieve a flatter and more toned looking stomach by reshaping the contours of your waistline.
The benefits of a partial or mini tummy tuck include shorter incision lines and a faster recovery process. The downside is that because it is a more limited procedure when compared with the full or traditional abdominoplasty, the surgeon may not be able to sculpt all of the abdominal tissues. This procedure is best for those whose excess skin and fat is located below the belly button.
Are you a good candidate?
If you have a significant amount of excess fat and skin, in your abdominal region, then a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. That is especially true if most of the excess tissue is located below rather than above your belly button. Ideal abdominoplasty patients are those who are generally in good health, and who have been able to maintain a stable weight, less than 30 pounds over their ideal body weight, for at least one year. Most patients are 25 to 60 years of age. While tummy tucks are more popular for women, they can also be performed on men.
Procedure
The abdominoplasty procedure begins with a short horizontal incision, usually two to three inches long, in the lower abdomen. This incision is generally low enough that it can be covered by underwear or a swimsuit to avoid visible scars. Liposuction or traditional surgical methods are used to remove excess fat. Excess skin will be trimmed away around the incision line. The surgeon may also tighten the lower abdominal muscles. Depending on the amount of skin being removed, the belly button may also be unattached and reattached at a higher position on the abdomen. Once all of this surgical work is complete, the incision is closed with sutures.
Complications & Risks
While the mini tummy tuck tends to involve fewer risks than the full abdominoplasty surgery, there are a few potential complications. These include adverse reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, and infection. If nerve damage occurs during surgery, the surrounding tissues may be temporarily or permanently numb. The resulting scar from the incision required for this procedure may be visible following the recovery period, although it is shorter than the incision required for other forms of abdominoplasty and can usually be hidden with clothing.
Recovery Time
This procedure is associated with a shorter recovery time than the more invasive full abdominoplasty. Most patients are able to return to work within one to two weeks of surgery. During the recovery period, patients will experience restricted mobility and some discomfort in the abdomen. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and redness. Your surgeon will instruct you to wear an elastic compression garment, which helps the tissues heal in their new contours. Muscle soreness and tightness of the skin are to be expected during this time.
Mini Tummy Tuck Cost
A mini tummy tuck can be extremely cost effective. Since there is less work involved for the surgeon, it is usually about 50% less than the full abdominoplasty. The surgeon’s fee for a mini tummy tuck averages $4,000 to $5,000.