MINI TUMMY TUCK

Then a variable amount of lower abdominal skin is removed, exposing the muscles, which are then tightened from the belly button down towards the pubis. This gives a very favourable contour to the lower abdomen, and adds longevity to the result. The belly button is not moved in this operation. Most caesarian section scars are removed , although you will be left with a lower abdominal scar somewhat longer than a caesarian scar (but this is well hidden in a bikini)

A long lower abdominal scar will be present, as will a scar within the belly button. Numerous studies have shown that combining liposuction of the central abdomen during a traditional full tummy tuck may compromise the circulation, and hence is generally avoided, although flank liposuction is considered to be safe.

More recently (2009), a modification of the traditional full tuck was described, and termed a “lipo-abdominoplasty”. This procedure allows for comprehensive liposuction of the abdomen along with a modified / lesser degree of undermining of the tummy flap, but a full repair of the tummy muscles. The indications for a lipo-abdominoplasty are exactly the same as for a traditional full tummy tuck / abdominoplasty. The essential components of this procedure are full abdominal liposuction, elevation of the tummy flap at a more superficial level and in a more limited area, full muscle repair and belly button repositioning. I have done a number of these procedures, and it is now my full tummy tuck procedure of choice! I have also noted easier closure of the tummy, seemingly less discomfort post op, no fluid collections (thus far) and I only leave a drain in place for one night, as opposed to the one week with the traditional surgery previously. That said, it is still a big procedure, takes somewhat longer to perform (due to the concomitant liposuction) and the overall look is similar, although adding the liposuction at the time of the tuck generally negates the need for a possible secondary liposuction in the future. Just to stress that this is not a procedure for significantly overweight patients – your BMI must be below 30 to be considered a suitable candidate in my practice. . This is a major operation, done under spinal anaesthesia, and will require a 1.5 day hospital stay. Complications are fortunately rare, but can be potentially serious, and so patient selection is important. Generalised obesity, cigarette smoking, previous venous thrombosis or poor general health are some contra-indications to a full tummy tuck.