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Daniel Careaga, MD
Paul Durand, MD

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Try the Mini Tummy Tuck Technique

Posted December 29, 2016 in Plastic Surgery

The mini abdominoplasty, or the mini tummy tuck, is a less invasive and less extensive version of the full tummy tuck procedure and can help to make the abdomen firmer and thinner. The procedure involves removing excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen, along with tightening the fascia and muscle of the abdominal wall. The mini tummy tuck procedure is also known as the scarless tummy tuck because only a small incision is made during the surgery. Unlike with a full tummy tuck, repositioning of the navel is not required during the mini tummy tuck surgery.

Is Mini Abdominoplasty for You?

The mini tummy tuck is ideal for people who want to get rid of a small amount of abdominal skin, people who are looking to sculpt their abdomens into a more desirable shape, old people with sagging abdomens, and people whose skin is resistant to exercise. In order to be suitable for a mini tummy tuck procedure, you need to be in overall good health, have good skin tone and skin elasticity, and be of sound mind. Mini abdominoplasty is not for you if your abdominal wall is significantly protruded; in these cases, a full abdominoplasty may be a better option.

The Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure

The first step in the mini tummy tuck procedure is a consultation with your surgeon. He will make sure that you have realistic expectations regarding the outcome of the procedure. Your surgeon will then go through your medical history. He will check your overall health. Your skin tone will be assessed and the extent of your abdominal fat will be measured. If everything looks satisfactory, then the surgeon will schedule a date for your surgery.

First, you are given local anesthesia. A short incision is made just above the pubic area, below the bikini/boxer line. Your lower abdomen’s fat and skin are detached from the muscle fascia. Excess skin is removed after stretching it down. Excess fat is also removed. The stretching of the skin most often enhances the appearance of the navel as well. After the abdominal muscle is tightened, the surgeon redrapes the skin and shapes it over the abdomen. Liposuction is often used for enhanced results. You are given a compression garment right after the surgery for support and to assist with healing. You will have to wear it continuously for two to three weeks.

After the Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery

You will be discharged from the hospital within a few hours after the surgery. The recovery time is relatively short, just seven to fourteen days. Within two weeks after the surgery, you can resume your normal daily activities and can even go to the office. However, avoid strenuous activities for a month after the surgery. The mini tummy tuck procedure is very safe. You may experience discomfort/pain that comes with the surgery. However, this can be controlled with the oral medication prescribed by your surgeon.

Post-treatment care includes keeping your stitches dry and not putting any pressure on the incision area. Also, do not forget to take your antibiotics.

A mini tummy tuck can be a life-enhancing procedure; it can improve the shape of your abdomen and thus make you feel more comfortable and confident.

Get In Touch with Our Office

Well-respected surgeon Dr. Daniel Careaga will answer your questions regarding the mini tummy tuck during an informative consultation at our office. If you’re interested in an appointment, contact us today.

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