A mini tummy tuck, also known as a partial abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the lower-abdominal region. It also tightens sagging muscle tissue.
While a full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal area, including the area above the belly button, the mini tummy tuck specifically focuses on issues related to the lower abdomen (the area below the belly button).
Because of this, the procedure is much less invasive. It takes less time to perform and causes less tissue damage, resulting in an overall shorter and more comfortable healing process with less swelling and bruising.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Mini Tummy Tuck?
Dr. Glassman will typically recommend a mini tummy tuck to anyone who has a minimal amount of excess fat and skin and sagging muscle tissue in the lower-abdominal region.
Pregnant women undergo abdominoplasty to address issues related to their post-pregnancy body. The skin in the abdominal area expands during pregnancy, but afterwards, it often has trouble shrinking back down to normal and sags instead. This can be resolved using a tummy tuck.
However, not all women who want to get rid of excess skin around their abdomen after a pregnancy should consider a tummy tuck. The only time these women should consider the procedure is when they do not intend to get pregnant again, since childbirth can negatively affect tummy-tuck results.
Everything You Should Know Before Your Mini Tummy Tuck
The mini-abdominoplasty procedure can be performed at an outpatient facility and typically takes between two and three hours to complete.
Dr. Glassman will administer general anesthesia to the patient before the surgery. He will then make a small incision in the lower-abdominal region. This is shorter than the incision used for a full tummy tuck.
Liposuction is used to remove excess fat from the abdominal region. A scalpel is used to trim away the excess skin, and internal sutures are used to tighten the sagging muscles. After this, Dr. Glassman will close the incisions with sutures, stitches, or glue.
After a Mini Tummy Tuck
The results of the mini tummy tuck are designed to look natural and provide rejuvenation and youthful contours to the patient’s abdominal region. The results from the surgery are fully visible once the area has healed. This can take a few weeks.
The healing process will involve taking some time off from work and avoiding physically strenuous activities like heavy exercise. Wearing a post-surgical elastic garment may be necessary in order to address swelling and bruising, and it will be important to avoid smoking during the healing process.
The results of the mini tummy tuck are designed to be permanent, provided the patient continues to maintain a proper diet and exercise regimen.
Set Up Your Mini Tummy Tuck Consultation
You deserve to feel good about your body. Schedule a mini tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Lawrence Glassman, a highly skilled board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience – contact our office today to arrange an appointment.