Loose skin, excess fat, and lax abdominal muscles can all contribute to a phenomenon known as abdominal bulging. These symptoms are frustrating for individuals who just want a leaner body. What’s the solution? Well, an abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck, may be able to help.
If you are considering this cosmetic surgical procedure, you should review the following information and determine whether you’re a candidate. It can also help to check your options for a traditional tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck. Which type of procedure will be the right fit for you?
Who Is Eligible for a Tummy Tuck?
Many patients mistakenly believe that you must be overweight to qualify for abdominoplasty or a tummy tuck. This could not be further from the truth.
There are many potential reasons you may experience issues with a bulge around your midsection, including age, weight fluctuations, and even pregnancy. Individuals with abdominal bulging will want to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their options for treatment.
In general, you may be eligible for the tummy tuck procedure if you are in good health and close to your ideal weight. Many patients who opt for the tummy tuck have attempted to remedy their issues through diet and exercise with little to no results. Others may have loose skin from pregnancy or dramatic weight loss.
Eligible candidates are non-smokers (or willing to quit before the procedure) with realistic expectations about what this type of procedure can offer them. Of course, patients cannot be pregnant, and any candidates who recently had a baby should wait six months before undergoing this procedure.
Should You Get a Full Tummy Tuck or a Mini Tummy Tuck?
Once you and your plastic surgeon have determined that you may be a good candidate, many people wonder whether they should go with a more traditional full tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck. How do you decide which treatment is the right fit for you?
Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck will tighten the abdominal wall muscles and solve problems both above and below the navel. Your surgeon will make one incision from hip to hip and another around the belly button.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Mini tummy tucks may be a better option if your area of concern is mainly below the navel. Like the more traditional version, they can still remove excess skin and tighten up loose muscles. They come with their own benefits over a full tummy tuck, such as:
- Faster recovery
- Less discomfort
- Less scarring with no scars near the navel
This is ideal for someone who only has a small amount of excess skin to remove from the lower half of their abdomen. Many people like to combine this type of abdominoplasty with liposuction for contouring.
Book a Customized Consultation
Every patient has unique goals based on their body type, medical history, age, weight, and other factors. Our team can help you achieve the results you’ve been dreaming of! Set up a consultation today with our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Kim or Dr. Wingate, at Legacy Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics.
