Aging, weight loss, pregnancy are factors that can affect the appearance of the abdomen. If you are worried about loose, excess fat and skin in the abdominal area, you could benefit from a tummy tuck. This is a popular cosmetic surgical option among both men and women. However, based on differing requirements, plastic surgeons offer variants of this procedure such as ‘mini’ and ‘full’ abdominoplasty. Knowing the distinction between them is important, though you can rely on your surgeon to recommend the procedure that can best meet your needs.
When the condition is fullness or loose skin in the area below the belly button, a mini-abdominoplasty is usually advised. The procedure addresses a limited area – from the base of the umbilicus to the top of the pubic region, and between the inside of each hip. The treatment involves tightening the muscles and removing excess lower abdominal skin.
A full abdominoplasty is recommended when there is fullness as well as loose skin in the entire abdominal area. The procedure addresses the area from the bottom of the rib cage to the top of the pubic region and between the outer top of each hip. Excess fat and tissue are removed and the muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened. The treatment can also resolve prominent stretch marks.
Established plastic surgery practices also offer other abdominoplasty options. For women with localized deposits of fat in the abdominal area, surgeons advise liposuction-only abdominoplasty. The procedure reshapes the abdomen and improves contour and proportion.
The most advanced technique is the Brazilian tummy tuck. In this approach, the incision is placed very low in the pubic area. This keeps the scar hidden even when a low-cut bikini is worn. As the procedure tightens the region, it can also help resolve incontinence.
The use of advanced minimally invasive body sculpting devices improves safety as well as efficiency, and allows patients to achieve the desired results in minimal downtime.