Abdominoplasty is a reconstructive surgery for patients who have not achieved their ideal body weight and image through regular diet and exercise. There are less extensive variations.
There is a common confusion regarding abdominoplasty that suggests that this type of plastic surgery is just strategic liposuction. This is partially true, but it doesn’t end there. This article serves to explain what a tummy tuck consists of, as well as to identify some variations of the procedure.
Complete Abdominoplasty
This form of tummy tuck involves an incision from almost one hip bone to the other. It is reserved for patients with the most extensive reconstruction needs. Once the incision is placed, the surgeon can perform liposuction in some areas if necessary, but the main part of the procedure that sets it apart from the other variations is the muscle work done. The abdominal muscles, probably elongated and stretched from childbearing or significant weight gain and subsequent loss, are brought into a tighter, flatter position and sutured together at that point. Excess skin and tissue are removed before the incision is closed at the end of the surgery.
A full tummy tuck is recommended for those who have tried unsuccessfully to strengthen and firm the abdominal muscles through regular exercise and proper nutrition.
mini tummy tuck
The mini form of this type of enhancement involves a shorter incision and omits the muscle tension portion of the entire procedure. The surgeon focuses on the lower abdominal area, below the belly button. Liposuction is sometimes used, but most commonly the surgeon will remove excess skin and loose tissue and stretch the skin to close the incision.
Good candidates for a mini tummy tuck are those who, through diet and exercise, can feel firm abs, but are under a layer of stubborn fat that they can’t seem to get rid of.
liposuction
Some patients seeking a smaller waistline have firm abdominal muscles and tight skin. These patients may have a bulge around their midsection that they cannot get rid of with exercise. This group of patients will only require liposuction to remove excess fat under the skin. Less extensive surgery is always the goal, and often with this type of liposuction, only the minimal amount of local anesthesia is required.
Prudent plastic surgeons perform a thorough analysis of their patients and their medical history, lifestyle, and expectations before committing to any surgery. Based on the patient’s personal goals, a treatment plan is designed. But they will alert you to the important fact that any form of plastic surgery, particularly a tummy tuck, is not a substitute for a healthy diet and regular participation in an exercise plan. These procedures are reserved for those who have not been successful in losing the last few pounds they want to lose and those who have not achieved the results they desire through an exercise program.
