Mini Tummy Tuck – What You Should Know
What is a mini tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is also known as a mini abdominoplasty or a “scarless” tummy tuck. It is a modified tummy tuck that tightens the muscle and removes excess lower abdominal skin using an incision similar to one that a patient would need for a C-section.
It is a short incision done at or above the pubic region that is well-hidden even if the patient wears underwear or swimwear. That is why it is sometimes known as a “scarless” tummy tuck. This procedure is sometimes combined with liposuction of the love handles to improve the shape of the patient’s midsection.
Mini vs. Full
A full tummy tuck is a procedure that firms up the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat above and below the belly button. The procedure itself involves separating the navel from the abdominal wall and other tissue by pulling the muscles underneath into a tighter position. Excess tissue is removed after the flap is stretched down and then the belly button is repositioned.
A full tummy tuck procedure lasts between one to five hours and requires a general anesthetic.
A mini tummy tuck procedure involves only an incision across the lower abdomen (above the pubic bone). There is no need for an incision around the navel since the belly button does not have to be repositioned. The procedure usually takes less than two hours and requires local anesthesia with sedation, although patients can opt to have a general anesthetic.
Who can get a mini tummy tuck?
Individuals who need to have a small amount of abdominal skin removed and do not have a significantly protruding abdominal muscle wall can undergo a mini tummy tuck. Other candidates for this procedure would be people whose abdominal area is sagging due to aging and those who are healthy but find that diet and exercise have no effect on the excess skin in the lower abdomen.
What to expect
This procedure will eliminate excess skin and fat from the midsection in the area below the belly button. It does not eliminate fat or flaccidity in the area above the navel. A mini tummy tuck does not take care of stretch marks and will not help narrow the waist.
Patients do not need to be hospitalized after the procedure. They are usually released after a few hours. Recovery time is one to three weeks. Expect some soreness and swelling but Dr. Nakamura will provide medication to help you manage any discomfort. Mini tummy tuck patients are also provided with a special compression garment to wear for a specified time.
Expect to have a small scar at the site of the incision, although this will be below the bikini line. It will not be immediately visible when you wear underwear or swimwear. In time, however, and with proper post-surgery care, the scar will fade and return to your normal skin tone.
Every surgery has certain risks. To ensure that you will receive excellent service for a mini tummy tuck procedure, you need to consult with Dr. Nakamura, one of the best surgeons in the business.
We highly recommend that you visit Accent On You Cosmetic Surgery Center and Medi-Spa in Arlington, Texas today. We provide highly personalized service to all our patients, and each patient is given the most comprehensive information about his or her procedure. Dr. Nakamura and our staff ensure that our clients feel comfortable and relaxed as they consider their options. We believe that an informed choice is the best one.
Give us a call at 817-417-7200 or send us an email to take advantage of our complimentary consultations.
Dr. Y. Anthony Nakamura is a recognized expert in plastic surgery and body contouring, providing excellent care while taking a personal approach with each and every patient.
Posted in Mini Tummy Tuck, Mommy Makeover
