What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is lesser extensive variant of abdominoplasty performed by a cosmetic surgeon in certain cases. This partial tummy tuck surgery involves a smaller incision that is placed just at or above the pubic area, which is quite similar to the incision for a cesarean section. Through this incision, the surgeon will excise loose skin in the lower abdominal area as well as tighten the underlying muscles in that area.
The advantage with a mini tummy tuck is that the procedure is relatively less invasive, risk of complications is reduced and recovery period is shorter. Dr. Eugene Kim is a board certified plastic surgeon providing mini tummy tuck and other surgical and non-surgical procedures to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and nearby areas.
Suitable Candidates
Partial abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck is usually considered a good procedure for patients with relatively lesser extent of loose skin to be removed and do not have a significant protrusion of the abdominal wall. If the patient is bothered by the appearance of the abdominal area where the onset of sagging has occurred, or if the patient desires to sculpt a reasonably slim abdomen into a more well-defined shape, a mini tummy tuck may be recommended by the cosmetic surgeon.
A suitable candidate for a mini tummy tuck will typically have concerns with fat accumulation and excess skin in the area below the navel. In addition to localized fat and skin in the lower abdomen, the candidate should ideally have a moderate and stable body weight. The candidate should be a non-smoker, or be committed to quitting smoking several weeks prior to the surgery. Patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and other areas may receive this procedure from Dr. Kim, who is a leading plastic surgeon in the region.
Procedure
Mini tummy tuck procedure is typically performed using mild IV sedation and local anesthesia. Depending on the amount of skin that needs to be excised, the surgeon will determine the size of the incision. In most cases, the scar will be fairly small and placed inconspicuously. Unlike a full abdominoplasty, the surgeon will not have to reposition the belly button during a mini tummy tuck surgery. In some cases, the surgeon may combine mini tummy tuck with liposuction to achieve the desired sculpted shape for the tummy.
During the mini tummy tuck surgery, a relatively smaller section of the abdominal wall will be exposed. The treatment area will typically extend from the incision point to the belly button. Once the underlying lower abdomen muscles are tightened and excess fat is removed through the incision, the surgeon will stretch the skin downward, while removing any loose skin. This will provide a tighter, firmer, and smoother lower abdominal area.
Recovery
Recovery period in a mini tummy tuck is about three to five days, after which the patient may be ready to resume regular activities or go back to work. However, vigorous activities and exercises should be avoided for about four weeks.
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.
