What Is Minor Abdominoplasty?
A full abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, removes excess fat and tissue, and addresses underlying muscle separation (rectus diastasis). This muscle damage can happen normally during pregnancy. However, in some cases, a standard abdominoplasty may not be necessary. If the patient is within the recommended weight range and not planning to become pregnant, a modified procedure called a minor abdominoplasty can effectively tone and flatten the lower stomach. Some key reasons to choose a minor versus a standard abdominoplasty include reduced expense, less pain and scarring, and a shorter recovery time.
What Happens During A Minor Abdominoplasty?
During a mini tummy tuck, the surgeon makes an incision between 4 and 8 inches across the lower abdomen. The surgeon will remove soft tissue and skin, and if needed, will tighten loose muscles with sutures. While the full abdominoplasty can impact the look of your belly button, the minor version of the surgery does not. Additionally, a mini tummy tuck can remove stretch marks in the target area.
The scar from minor abdominoplasty is a similar length as the average caesarean section scar, which may be addressed during the procedure. If you have undergone a C-section, you may have lasting scars that make you feel self-conscious. These scars may be revised when your surgeon removes any extra loose skin you carry. The tummy tuck incision can be incorporated into your C-section scar below your bikini line. For patients who are interested in a complete renewal, after pregnancy and childbirth, a Mommy Makeover may be the best treatment option.
Before undergoing any body contouring surgery, consult with your medical provider to determine if cosmetic surgery is an appropriate choice for you. If it seems like the best option for your case, you will then meet with one of our board-qualified surgeons to discuss your desired results and learn what to expect from a minor abdominoplasty.
Getting Results With Minor Abdominoplasty
Having a firmer and flatter midsection can dramatically improve the way clothing fits and feels, helping you feel healthier, more confident and comfortable in your own body. At Okanagan Surgical Health Centre, our team of trusted plastic surgeons develop customized surgical plans that meet lifestyle requirements, and help patients successfully reach their aesthetic goals. We help our clients achieve their desired results with minimal scarring to ensure they feel confident in their skin once again. To book your complimentary consultation regarding minor abdominoplasty call us at 1-250-868-9799 or fill out the contact form.
FAQ
Q: How safe is abdominoplasty surgery?
A: Mini tummy tucks are generally considered safe, however, every procedure has associated risks. With a minor abdominoplasty procedure, you may experience infection, irregular scarring, or fluid accumulation under your skin. In contrast, a full abdominoplasty is considered a more invasive surgery that requires appropriate preparation and post-operative care. Full abdominoplasty patients may experience pain, numbness, bleeding, and infection. There is also a chance of scarring, however, it should fade over time. For these reasons and more, it is essential to seek treatment from a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience such as one of our private surgeons at Okanagan Health Surgical.
Q: How much weight can I lose?
A: It is important to have realistic expectations regarding your mini tummy tuck. Abdominoplasty, whether minor or full, is not a weight loss procedure. This surgery is designed to contour your body, and to give you a more streamlined abdomen. Abdominoplasty patients do not usually lose significant amounts of weight. The key to success after this surgery is to make sure you lose any unwanted weight in advance, as maintaining your weight post-operatively is essential to achieve long-term results.
Q: What can I expect after a minor abdominoplasty?
A: Some immediate changes may be noticeable right after your minor abdominoplasty, however, you may need to wait until the swelling resolves, around week six, to see the full results. After your procedure, it is important to follow your surgeon’s post-op care directions in order to achieve long-lasting results. Your surgeon may advise you to wear an abdominal binder for several weeks to help provide support during recovery. You may also be advised to begin light exercise after four weeks if approved by your surgeon. However, it’s best to wait at least six weeks before engaging in any vigorous physical activity, such as heavy lifting, intense exercise, or swimming.
