The first, a full tummy tuck, is a very invasive procedure that requires the removal of excess fat and tissue as well as the repair of any damaged abdominal muscles via an incision between the navel and public hairline. A mini tummy tuck, which is less invasive as a full tummy tuck, is the second type of surgery doctors are performing.
A mini tummy tuck is done when the patient does not require extensive plastic surgery to streamline the stomach. This may the option a doctor gives a candidate when all they need is sculpting done to the abdominal area. If upon examination of the patient the doctor does not find any protrusions in the muscle wall of the stomach and simply find sagging do to age or even pregnancy, they will often recommend the mini tummy tuck procedure.
The mini tummy tuck is also known as the scarless tummy tuck due to the size of the incision. It is usually smaller than the one needed for a traditional tummy tuck and the size is determined by the quantity of skin that will be removed. Also, with a mini tummy tuck, the navel usually does not have to be repositioned, something that is very common with a traditional tummy tuck. Occasionally the patient having a mini tummy tuck will also require some mild liposuction. This simply helps the doctor sculpt the abdomen into the shape that was discussed prior to the surgery.
One of the advantages of a mini tummy tuck is that there is a minimal amount of the abdominal wall exposed. The incision area in this procedure is limited to the area below the navel and if the needs to repair any muscles, he or she will do so from this position. From there the skin will be stretched downward. Any excess tissue will be removed and then the skin will be stitched into place. If necessary, the doctor will place a temporary drainage tube in the incision that will be removed at a later time, usually before the patient is discharged from the hospital or at the follow-up visit.
With a mini tummy tuck procedure, patients are not required to stay in the hospital overnight for observation. In most cases that have no complications, patients are released within a few hours of coming out of post operative care. Patients may experience some post operative pain, but it can usually be tamed with extra strength over the counter products such as Tylenol and Advil. Most patients are able to return to normal activities, including work, within a few days of the procedure. They should, however, avoid any strenuous activities for at least three to four weeks.
As with any other surgery, patients should make sure that they follow their physician's instructions in caring for the incision. They should also make sure they keep their follow-up appointments. And above all else, they should enjoy the new figure they have.
