22 Dec Tummy Tuck Choices…Which One Is Right For Me?
Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin for the abdominal area. When a tummy tuck is combined with other procedures, such as breast augmentation, breast lifts or liposuction, you may hear it referred to as a mommy makeover.
Many prospective cosmetic surgery patients may not be aware of the fact that there are three main types of tummy tuck surgeries. Before you decide on a tummy tuck, become familiar with the types available to you, so that you can make an informed decision about which one you want.
The two types of tummy tucks include:
The Mini Tummy Tuck
Many times the mini tummy tuck is referred to as the, “scarless tummy tuck.” This one is the baby of the bunch. It removes a much smaller amount of skin, thus, the incision is much smaller. This procedure is great for individuals with a small amount of stubborn belly flat. It is designed for generally healthy, fit people who just want to “tweak” their physique.
The procedure requires an incision in the lower abdominal area, again, much smaller than the normal tummy tuck. The belly button itself usually is not repositioned, a minor amount of skin is removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened and remaining skin is pulled taut over the incision.
Most patient’s recovery time will be less than a week, you will be using over the counter pain meds and avoiding intense physical activity.
This procedure is designed for those who are in good physical health, but have a decent amount of loose skin in need of removal. It is designed for those people who cannot reduce their tummy bulge through diet and or exercise. Many times the traditional tummy tuck patients have recently undergone a large weight loss or are post pregnancy.
The incision is slightly larger and runs in a straight line from hipbone to hipbone. Because this procedure requires much more skin to be removed, the belly button is repositioned. Minor liposuction may be added to remove fat prior to the surgeon tightening the abdominal muscles and closing the incision.
Normally speaking, the average recovery time for the traditional tummy tuck would be between 2-4 weeks. Physical exertion should be put on hold and pain medication will be prescribed.
The Extended Tummy Tuck
For those individuals with a very large amount of loose, sagging skin on the abdomen, this extended tummy tuck the procedure of choice. These patients usually have excess fat that needs removal along with the extra skin.
A very long incision is required, which reaches from the hips to the lower back, and almost always requires liposuction to remove excess fat cells and to drain extra fluids. The surgeon tightens muscles in the abdomen and around the hips and removes loose skin before suturing.
Recovery begins in the hospital where a 1-2 day stay is normal. Normal activities, not including physical exertion, will most likely be allowed in a month’s time. Swelling and discomfort may persist a bit longer.
Of course, there are specific health requirements that patients must meet to be candidates for tummy tuck surgery. And it should be noted that tummy tucks are not intended to be a weight loss method.
Contact Tummy Tuck Surgeon Dr. John Park
If you are considering a tummy tuck, it is essential that you consult with a board certified, experienced plastic surgeon such as Dr. John Park. Give our team of professionals a call and we will walk you through the steps it will take for you to have that successful tummy tuck you desire – (949) 777-6883.