ARTICLE
Weight loss, pregnancy, and genetics are just a few reasons why pockets of skin and fat may accumulate around the stomach. Even with strict diet and exercise, this loose skin can remain, keeping someone from achieving the desired goals for his or her body.
With the right body contouring procedure, you can finally say goodbye to stubborn problem areas and achieve a tighter, smoother abdomen. For many of our Melbourne patients, tummy tuck surgery has produced satisfying and long lasting results. The mini tummy tuck, in particular, is an effective way to trim unwanted skin and fat in a far less invasive manner than similar procedures. If you are considering a tummy tuck to enhance your look, here’s what you can expect from this popular treatment.
Candidates for a Mini Tummy Tuck
Candidates for tummy tuck surgery should have loose or sagging skin in the abdominal area that they wish to remove. For a mini tummy tuck, surgery is confined to the lower stomach, below the navel. Candidates should therefore be aware that a mini tummy tuck cannot address areas toward the upper abdomen or at the hips. Although a tummy tuck is not meant as a means of weight loss, the procedure can be combined with liposuction if a significant amount of fatty tissue is also present.
Patients should also have realistic expectations for the procedure: a mini tummy tuck can provide better abdominal contours, but cannot replicate the more dramatic results of a full or extended tummy tuck. To gain a more accurate understanding of how your body will benefit from surgery, speak with an experienced plastic surgeon.
Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery
Candidates for a mini tummy tuck can expect a relatively simple and easier surgery. As an outpatient procedure, patients will first receive local anesthesia with possible sedation. Once ready, the following steps will ensue:
- A small incision will be made below the navel, usually near the pubic bone. This incision and subsequent scarring can be concealed by underwear and swimwear.
- Excess skin and fat will be removed from the area. If additional fat requires removal from the area, liposuction may be used as well.
- The lower abdominal muscles are tightened, creating better tone and contours below the skin.
- Remaining skin will be pulled taut and sutured in place.
Unlike a full tummy tuck, the belly button does not require repositioning; as such, no incisions are needed around the navel. As the skin heals and adapts to its new contours, the belly button should also move subtly into proper placement.
Recovering from Surgery
Although a mini tummy tuck results in an easier overall recovery, patients still require time to heal. A week of rest is generally recommended, during which side effects of surgery can be expected. Bruising, swelling, and discomfort are among the most common side effects, beginning soon after surgery and resolving primarily over the first 10 to 14 days.
Your doctor may recommend that you wear an elastic compression garment around your abdomen for a week or more, following surgery. This will help diminish swelling and pain, while encouraging your body to heal properly. Most patients are able to return to work and light daily activities within a week, and can resume more physically strenuous activities by six weeks.
Risks
Patients rarely encounter complications from a mini tummy tuck, but no surgeries are risk-free. First and foremost, patients should keep an eye out for infection during recovery. Persistent or worsening side effects, especially when coupled with a fever, may be indicative of infection and should be reported to a doctor. Patients should also make sure to promote circulation during recovery, such as by getting up and walking around, so as not to develop blood clots.
With a skilled surgeon, potential complications can be avoided. Speak with your doctor prior to surgery to discuss any personal risk factors you may have.
Consider Our Body Contouring Options
Whether you are considering a mini tummy tuck or alternative body contouring procedure, we are positive that you’ll be satisfied with our treatment options. Contact us to schedule an appointment and see just how dedicated we are to your health and appearance.
ARTICLE
What to Expect from a Mini Tummy Tuck
Weight loss, pregnancy, and genetics are just a few reasons why pockets of skin and fat may accumulate around the stomach. Even with strict diet and exercise, this loose skin can remain, keeping someone from achieving the desired goals for his or her body.
With the right body contouring procedure, you can finally say goodbye to stubborn problem areas and achieve a tighter, smoother abdomen. For many of our Melbourne patients, tummy tuck surgery has produced satisfying and long lasting results. The mini tummy tuck, in particular, is an effective way to trim unwanted skin and fat in a far less invasive manner than similar procedures. If you are considering a tummy tuck to enhance your look, here’s what you can expect from this popular treatment.
Candidates for a Mini Tummy Tuck
Candidates for tummy tuck surgery should have loose or sagging skin in the abdominal area that they wish to remove. For a mini tummy tuck, surgery is confined to the lower stomach, below the navel. Candidates should therefore be aware that a mini tummy tuck cannot address areas toward the upper abdomen or at the hips. Although a tummy tuck is not meant as a means of weight loss, the procedure can be combined with liposuction if a significant amount of fatty tissue is also present.
Patients should also have realistic expectations for the procedure: a mini tummy tuck can provide better abdominal contours, but cannot replicate the more dramatic results of a full or extended tummy tuck. To gain a more accurate understanding of how your body will benefit from surgery, speak with an experienced plastic surgeon.
Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery
Candidates for a mini tummy tuck can expect a relatively simple and easier surgery. As an outpatient procedure, patients will first receive local anesthesia with possible sedation. Once ready, the following steps will ensue:
- A small incision will be made below the navel, usually near the pubic bone. This incision and subsequent scarring can be concealed by underwear and swimwear.
- Excess skin and fat will be removed from the area. If additional fat requires removal from the area, liposuction may be used as well.
- The lower abdominal muscles are tightened, creating better tone and contours below the skin.
- Remaining skin will be pulled taut and sutured in place.
Unlike a full tummy tuck, the belly button does not require repositioning; as such, no incisions are needed around the navel. As the skin heals and adapts to its new contours, the belly button should also move subtly into proper placement.
Recovering from Surgery
Although a mini tummy tuck results in an easier overall recovery, patients still require time to heal. A week of rest is generally recommended, during which side effects of surgery can be expected. Bruising, swelling, and discomfort are among the most common side effects, beginning soon after surgery and resolving primarily over the first 10 to 14 days.
Your doctor may recommend that you wear an elastic compression garment around your abdomen for a week or more, following surgery. This will help diminish swelling and pain, while encouraging your body to heal properly. Most patients are able to return to work and light daily activities within a week, and can resume more physically strenuous activities by six weeks.
Risks
Patients rarely encounter complications from a mini tummy tuck, but no surgeries are risk-free. First and foremost, patients should keep an eye out for infection during recovery. Persistent or worsening side effects, especially when coupled with a fever, may be indicative of infection and should be reported to a doctor. Patients should also make sure to promote circulation during recovery, such as by getting up and walking around, so as not to develop blood clots.
With a skilled surgeon, potential complications can be avoided. Speak with your doctor prior to surgery to discuss any personal risk factors you may have.
Consider Our Body Contouring Options
Whether you are considering a mini tummy tuck or alternative body contouring procedure, we are positive that you’ll be satisfied with our treatment options. Contact us to schedule an appointment and see just how dedicated we are to your health and appearance.