How a Traditional Tummy Tuck Differs from a Mini Tummy Tuck

Traditional Tummy Tuck

Illustration depicting incision lines for abdominoplastyA traditional tummy tuck is used to address the abdominal regions both above and below the navel. With this type of comprehensive contouring, Dr. Horn can repair and tighten the tissue in both of these areas. Full tummy tucks also remove larger portions of skin, typically in the area below the navel and above the pubic bone. This makes it ideal for patients who want to eliminate stretch marks and other imperfections. It is important to understand that traditional tummy tucks will result in a larger scar, which typically spans between the hips.

Dr. Horn is a skilled surgeon with extensive training who can ensure your tummy tuck produces natural-looking results.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck only modifies the region below the navel, making it ideal for patients who only want to address the lower belly. With a mini tuck, Dr. Horn can repair and tighten the muscles below the navel, including the obliques. Mini tummy tucks require much smaller incisions, which are often easily concealed beneath underwear or bikini bottoms.

Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?

Excess fat or loose and sagging skin in the abdominal region can result from weight loss or fluctuations, pregnancy, aging, and prior surgeries. Female patients should not plan on having children after a tummy tuck, as future pregnancy could diminish the results of the initial procedure. In general, patients should be in good overall health and have the ability to maintain a healthy weight following the procedure. Future fluctuations in weight could also diminish the results of the surgery.

The Tummy Tuck Procedure

Tummy tucks are performed under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from a couple hours to several hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. Once anesthesia is administered, Dr. Horn will carefully make the necessary incisions. He will then remove excess fat, trim loose skin, and in some cases, tighten the underlying muscles. The incisions will be sutured closed and dressings will be applied. Recovery after a tummy tuck can range from two to six weeks, depending on the type of technique used.

Maintaining Your Results

Once healing is complete and swelling has subsided, a tummy tuck can reveal a trimmer and tighter-looking abdomen. This results in a slimmer figure overall. Though the results of a tummy tuck are considered permanent, it is dependent on the patient’s ability to maintain his or her weight long-term. A healthy diet and consistent exercise can ensure your figure continues to look its best.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Horn

If you are troubled by excess abdominal skin or fat, consider a tummy tuck. Contact us today to schedule a body contouring consultation with Dr. Horn.