A person’s lower abdomen can start to look out of shape for many reasons. During pregnancy, the skin stretches and the abdominal muscles separate and sag. Stubborn stretch marks form in the skin, and pockets of stubborn excess fat may form. Sudden weight loss can also lead to these issues, as can aging and genetics.

Diet and exercise are unable to solve all of these problems. Those who do abdominal exercises know that shedding fat from the lower abdomen is probably the hardest part of keeping fit. In such cases, the mini abdominoplasty may be an effective solution.

A mini abdominoplasty, or mini tummy tuck as it is more popularly known, can be used to achieve a firmer and more youthful look for the lower abdomen. It can make the stomach look contoured and can leave the skin looking smooth and tight.

Mini vs. Full Abdominoplasty

There are many differences between the mini abdominoplasty and the full abdominoplasty. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right procedure for you.

The biggest difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full one is that in the former, only a single small incision is used. In the regular tummy tuck, an incision is made from hipbone to hipbone. In the mini abdominoplasty, this incision is much shorter. The full tuck may also involve an incision around the bellybutton.

The mini abdominoplasty is for people who have fat deposited in their lower abdomen only. A full tummy tuck, on the other hand, removes fat from the entire abdomen.

A mini abdominoplasty is less expensive and less time consuming. It only takes about an hour or two for the surgeon to complete the procedure, and the patient is put under general anesthesia while the procedure is done. During the procedure, a plastic surgeon removes the excess skin from the lower abdomen and pulls the muscle tissues closer together, tightening them with internal sutures. Excess fat is also removed.

The procedure is safe and quite popular. Because it involves removal of less tissue than the full abdominoplasty does, the recovery time is shorter and the healing period is more comfortable. Patients can typically recover in six weeks and start doing regular activities without any problem.

Ready for a Great-Looking Stomach?

Overall, the mini abdominoplasty has great benefits for those looking for an alternative to the regular abdominoplasty. It is excellent for people who have just had a child or those who have undergone sudden weight loss.

Fat in the lower abdomen can be a turn-off in social circles. Someone with a flat tummy, on the other hand, immediately attracts attention because their stomach looks so good. It also gives the impression that the person is healthy and takes good care of their body.

If you’re ready to achieve a fitter lower abdomen, contact our office and schedule an appointment for an informative consultation. During this consultation, Dr. Elias Gikas, a well-regarded board-certified plastic surgeon, will examine your abdomen and recommend a course of action. Dr. Gikas will be happy to answer any questions you may have.