It’s time for sun and fun and…oh no, bathing suits! At Advanced Liposuction Center, we frequently have clients come in at this time of the year because they are less than satisfied with what they see when they put on their bikinis. Fortunately, our Bridgewater, PA plastic surgeons can change that with a mini tummy tuck.
The Ideal Candidate
The mini tummy tuck is perfect for healthy men and women who are non-smokers and have excess abdominal fat or loose and flaccid skin due to weight loss or pregnancy. The procedure will restore a flat stomach and re-sculpt the abdomen and back. The mini tummy tuck is a great way to get rid of stubborn waistline fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. A traditional tummy tuck is a more involved procedure that is meant for clients who wish to remove a large amount of fat or skin. When you have your free consultation with one of our expert plastic surgeons, they will guide you to the right procedure for your body.
Benefits of the Mini Tummy Tuck
The mini tummy tuck has several advantages:
- Since it is less invasive than the traditional tummy tuck there is a shorter recovery period
- Less discomfort associated with the procedure
- No belly button repositioning is necessary
- Minimal amount of scarring
- Affordable
Recovery and Results
You will need to be driven home after the mini tummy tuck surgery (which takes about 2-3 hours to perform). It’s also a good idea to have someone stay with you for the first couple of days after the operation. There may be some discomfort, swelling and discoloration initially and rest is recommended for the first 24 hours. Most patients are able to return to work in 5-7 days. Patients may begin walking immediately after the procedure but should hold off on strenuous exercise for at least 3-5 weeks and after being seen by the plastic surgeon for a post-operative appointment.
You’ll begin to notice results in about a week, as soon as the bruising and swelling subsides. You’ll see continued improvement in the upcoming months. Although our bodies continue to change as we age, the results of the tummy tuck are long-lasting as long as you follow a healthy eating plan and exercise routine.
How long does a mini tummy tuck procedure take?
The duration of a mini tummy tuck procedure varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual patient’s needs. Typically, a mini tummy tuck takes around one to two hours to complete. The procedure involves making a small incision below the belly button, removing excess skin and fat, and tightening the abdominal muscles. Unlike a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck does not involve repositioning the belly button.
During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patient’s condition and determine whether a mini tummy tuck is appropriate. The surgeon will also discuss the expected duration of the procedure, as well as the recovery period and potential risks.
It is important to note that while a mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure than a full tummy tuck, it is still a surgical procedure that should be performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. Patients should carefully consider their options and discuss any concerns with their surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
Will there be scarring after a mini tummy tuck?
Yes, there will be scarring after a mini tummy tuck. However, the extent of scarring will depend on the individual’s healing process and the skill of the surgeon. The incision for a mini tummy tuck is typically smaller than that of a full tummy tuck, but it is still a surgical incision that will leave a scar.
The incision for a mini tummy tuck is usually made below the belly button, which means that the resulting scar will be hidden by underwear or swimwear. The scar may initially appear red and raised, but it should fade over time and become less noticeable.
To minimize scarring, it is important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully. This may include keeping the incision site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activity for several weeks, and wearing compression garments to support healing.
To learn more about the mini tummy tuck and other services we offer, contact any of our Pittsburgh area offices by calling: 724-683-7581.