Tummy Tuck Techniques
Full Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck or full abdominoplasty is a procedure performed to flatten the abdomen in patients who have excess skin and fat above as well as below the belly button. In addition, many candidates for this procedure also require tightening of the muscles of the abdomen. Frequently these muscles are stretched beyond one’s ability to strengthen them following pregnancy. The amount of excess skin and other factors will determine whether a full, mini, extended, or reverse tummy tuck is the best option for your needs.
Tummy Tuck Patient Review Video
Mini Tummy Tuck
- Length: 3 hours
- Anesthesia: IV Sedation
- In Patient/Out Patient: Out Patient
- Potential Side Effects/Risks: Difficulties with scar healing, infection
- Principle Benefits: A tightened and trimmer lower abdomen, new waistline, better fit of clothing
Mini tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a procedure for individuals who have not only excess fat in the lower abdomen, but also unwanted skin.
Typically, patients who are good candidates for mini tummy tuck have had moderate weight loss with overhanging tummy skin, those women who have had pregnancies with or without a C-Section whose skin overhangs a bit, and those whose stomach muscles simply will not tighten enough despite exercise. Mini tummy tuck involves two steps that are performed during the same operation. These steps include removal of lower abdominal skin and liposuction of unwanted fat.
A mini tummy tuck is ideally suited for those whose waistline concern is from below the belly button only. If there is extra abdominal skin and weakness of the abdomen above the belly button, then a full abdominoplasty is needed.
If you would like to learn more about the mini tummy tuck, we invite you to schedule a one-on-one consultation with plastic surgeon James Vogel, MD.
View More Before & After Photos
Extended Tummy Tuck
- Length:4 – 5 hours
- Anesthesia: Epidural and IV sedation
- In Patient/Out Patient: Out patient
- Potential Side Effects/Risks: Problems with anesthesia, blood clots, excess fat and skin at ends of incisions, unsightly scars
- Principle Benefits:Flatter tummy and a trimmer waistline
Patients who have an extended amount of additional abdominal skin typically benefit from an extended tummy tuck. The difference between this surgery and the full tummy tuck is essentially the amount of skin tailoring that is required to contour the waistline. The more extensive the amount of skin for contouring, the more “extended” the tailoring seams (i.e. scars) that are needed.
An extended tummy tuck/abdominoplasty is an excellent option for those patients who have recently lost a substantial amount of weight, whether through bariatric surgery or a strict regimen of diet and exercise. Such weight loss often leaves the skin looking stretched and loose; this skin can weigh several pounds! An extended tummy tuck/abdominoplasty allows for the removal of this skin and tightens the remaining skin and tissue, leaving the body looking more toned and trim than it has in years. In some patients a full lower body lift is needed if excess skin extends to the sacral and buttock area.
If you would like to learn more about the extended tummy tuck, please contact Dr. James Vogel today.
Reverse Tummy Tuck
- Length: 2.5 hours
- Anesthesia: IV Sedation
- In Patient/Out Patient: Out Patient
- Potential Side Effects/Risks: Difficulties with scar healing, infection
- Principle Benefits: A tightened and trimmer upper abdomen, new waistline, better fit of clothing
Reverse tummy tuck, or reverse abdominoplasty, is a procedure for individuals who have isolated excess fat and/or skin in the upper abdomen.
Typically, patients who are good candidates for a reverse tummy tuck have a moderate amount of excess upper abdominal skin with some fat, but little to no excess below the belly button. The reverse tummy tuck involves two steps that are performed during the same operation. These steps include removal of upper abdominal skin and liposuction of unwanted fat.
A reverse tummy tuck is ideally suited for those whose waistline concern is from above the belly button only. If there is extra abdominal skin and weakness of the abdomen below the belly button as well, then a full abdominoplasty is needed.
If you would like to learn more about the reverse tummy tuck, we invite you to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Carrie Houssock, the surgeon performing this procedure in our practice.
View More Before & After Photos
This patient had excess skin and fat of the upper abdomen only. She underwent a reverse abdominoplasty and now has a trimmer, flatter upper waistline. Her scar is well hidden in the crease under both breasts.
Tummy Tuck FAQS
How do I know if I need a tummy tuck or liposuction?
If you have loose skin in the abdomen or weak abdominal muscles (usually due to pregnancies, excessive weight gain, or weight loss) you will likely need an abdominoplasty.
Can’t I have liposuction instead of a tummy tuck?
Liposuction is a preferred technique for isolated pockets of fat on the legs, tummy and hips. Therefore, not all patients are candidates for liposuction. To be effective, there must be little excess skin. However, for many patients, if the lower tummy tissues are excessively stretched, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is indicated. Occasionally, the two techniques can be used together. In the majority of cases, the tummy tuck is performed first and a second stage liposuction is done several months later.
What is recovery from abdominoplasty like?
Most patients who undergo abdominoplasty experience moderate to considerable soreness for a few days, but this improves quickly thereafter. Drains are used and remain in place for 7-14 days. Most people take off 2 -3 weeks from work to recuperate.
Can I speak to some of your previous patients who had a procedure, such as tummy tuck, and get a reference?
Absolutely, I would encourage this. My past patients are my greatest endorsement. My staff will gladly arrange this for you.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about extended tummy tuck/abdominoplasty, please contact the office of Dr. James Vogel today.
