Most people complain about having a sagging, flabby lower abdomen. Although the cause of such a condition cannot be attributed to one factor only, an unhealthy lifestyle typically contributes to it. Pregnancy and weight fluctuations also result in a sagging lower abdomen. A healthy diet and exercise regimen may not be enough to correct the issue – a mini tummy tuck is often required.
The Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck, also called a partial abdominoplasty, is a term that many people aren’t aware of. It can be a good option for those with a drooping lower abdomen. The procedure focuses primarily on the abdominal region below the belly button and above the pubic area.
The mini tummy tuck is similar to the abdominoplasty in that it involves removing excess tissue from the abdomen. However, the procedure uses a smaller incision on the lower abdomen, making it less invasive than traditional abdominoplasty.
It involves tightening lower abdominal muscles, removing superfluous skin, and removing excess fatty tissue. The procedure can truly give a new shape to the midsection.
Who Can Come In for a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is an ideal option for women who have excess skin on their lower abdomen, excess fat in the area, and sagging abdominal muscles. Women who find their abdominal area drooping due to aging can go for this treatment. Younger women who have a small degree of sagging that they want to reshape also find this helpful.
How Is a Mini Tummy Tuck Performed?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, yet sometimes IV sedation and local anesthesia is used depending on the case. The size of the incision depends on the amount of skin to be removed, but usually a small incision is made. The procedure is also called a “scarless tummy tuck” because the size of the incision is much smaller than the one made in traditional tummy tuck surgeries.
Unlike with a traditional abdominoplasty, there is no need for surgeons to reposition the navel during a mini tummy tuck. The procedure also requires a smaller degree of exposure of the abdominal wall. Usually, the focal point is the area between the navel and the point of incision.
After removing extra fat and tightening the abdominal muscles, the surgeon stretches the skin downwards, removing an extra tissue and stitching back the remaining skin. A temporary drainage tube may be placed near the incision.
When the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, the patient is released within a few hours of the surgery. Some degree of pain is natural, but it should be controllable with the help of prescription pain-control medication. Strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks in order to avoid complications and keep the healing process as short as possible.
Schedule an Appointment for an Informative Consultation
Does the mini tummy tuck sound like the right procedure for your lower abdomen? To take advantage of effective contouring, contact our office and arrange a consultation. Dr. Lawrence Glassman, a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon, will be happy to help.