Mini versus full tummy tuck; which option is right for me?
One of our most commonly sought after procedures following childbirth or weight loss is the abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck. People often inquire about the possibility of a "mini" tummy tuck. Each patient's body and needs are different and the best way to determine what is best for you is to visit us for a complimentary consultation.
The mini-abdominoplasty addresses a smaller area, from the base of the umbilicus to the top of the pubic region and stretching to the inside of each hip. The incision and resulting scar are slightly larger than that of a c-section. No drains are required when a mini-abdominoplasty is performed. The ideal candidate for a mini-abdominoplasty is someone experiencing fullness or loose skin in the localized area beneath the belly button, or who may have hit a plateau with diet and exercise. This procedure provides tightening of the muscle and removal of excess lower abdominal skin.
The full abdominoplasty addresses a larger area, extending from the bottom of the rib cage to the top of the pubic region and stretches between the outer tops of each hip. During the full abdominoplasty, and incision is also made around the umbilicus to allow for its positioning in the newly contoured abdomen. This procedure does require the use of one to two drains. The ideal candidate for a full abdominoplasty is someone experiencing fullness, or loose skin in the entire abdominal region. During the procedure, excess fat and tissue is removed to restore a smoother and firmer abdominal profile. Abdominoplasties can also improve the appearance of stretch marks due to the excision of the affected area.
Each of these procedures is performed under general anesthetic and has a six week full recovery time. Liposuction during these procedures can help to further contour the abdomen and surrounding areas. It is important to keep in mind that the results are considered permanent but it is not a replacement for diet and exercise and can be greatly affected by a person's weight fluctuation and habits after surgery.
Please call Owsley Plastic Surgery for a complimentary consultation (208) 664-0165.
After graduating from Wallace High School, Dr. Owsley attended St. Louis Medical School. He went on to his residencies at University of Texas for a six year general surgery program and then a three year plastic surgery program. In 1995 Dr. Owsley returned to Idaho to begin the practice of plastic surgery. He was the first surgeon to bring endoscopic breast augmentation to Kootenai County. Dr. Owsley's experience helps him personalize your needs in cosmetic surgery.