Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgery procedure to reduce excess fat and skin and tighten the abdominal muscles. The aim is to achieve a flatter tummy and abdominal appearance. Tummy tuck surgery is a common treatment and is a good option for people who have tried dieting and exercise but have not seen any lasting results. Both men and women can have an abdominoplasty and generally have good results.
The procedure takes between two and five hours, depending on whether it is a ‘mini’ or full tummy tuck. Tummy tuck surgery requires a longer recovery time than other cosmetic procedures. There will be scars, which will become less visible over time. The visibility of these scars will disappear within 1 year. However, as the surgical scar is in an area that can be hidden under underwear, it does not cause any aesthetic problems.
What is a mini abdominoplasty?
Mini tummy tuck or mini abdominoplasty is used for people who have excess fat in the abdominal area and whose skin is too loose for liposuction alone, but who do not need a full tummy tuck. Mini tummy tuck surgery removes excess fat from the abdomen and waist area, and removes excess skin below the navel, but does not intervene the area above the navel. Mini tummy tuck surgery is more suitable for patients with excess skin and fat below the navel.
Mini tummy tuck surgery involves liposuction of the waist and abdomen, then a short incision is made in the lower abdomen under the underwear. The operation is then completed with a tightening procedure.
What is a major abdominoplasty?
A full tummy tuck, or major abdominoplasty, is performed by removing all excess fat and tissue from the waist and abdomen. Major abdominoplasty is used for people with a high degree of flabbiness and obesity. A full tummy tuck is suitable for patients with excess skin above the navel. The procedures used in a mini tummy tuck are also used in a full tummy tuck. However, a full tummy tuck also removes excess skin and fat above the navel.