What is a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominal skin can sag while the muscles stretch out, whether due to pregnancy, injury, significant weight loss, or aging. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen to enhance its shape and appearance.
During the surgery, a connective tissue called fascia is typically tightened with stitches to help narrow the waistline. If the muscles along the abdomen have separated, this procedure brings them back together.
After tightening the fascia, any excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned to achieve a flatter, more toned look. Additionally, liposuction may be used in conjunction with a tummy tuck for more comprehensive body contouring.
It’s important to note that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure and should be pursued by those close to their healthiest weight.
Mini-Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure performed through a smaller incision along the bikini line, typically measuring up to 20 cm long. In contrast, a traditional tummy tuck requires a larger, hip-to-hip incision.
This procedure primarily targets the area of the abdomen below the belly button, making it an ideal option for individuals with excess skin or fat, often referred to as a “pooch,” that is challenging to eliminate through diet and exercise alone.
One key difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full abdominoplasty is that the mini version does not change the appearance of the belly button.