I customize an adaptation of the Tummy Tuck for each patient depending on the degree of loose skin, separated abdomen muscles, excess fat and other factors. However, for general understanding, there are terms that describe the degree of surgery, which involves how much of an area the Abdominoplasty is to address.
For example, while the names of the different degrees of Abdominoplasty wouldn’t be exactly the same thing for every patient, generally they would acknowledge how high on the abdomen or how far around the torso that the surgery would address. Here is a general definition of the types of Abdominoplasty and the differences between them:
- Mini Tummy Tuck addresses a smaller abdominal region, usually just a little pooch under the belly button. This is an area that, despite consistent healthy diet and exercise, just won’t go away. It can be a combination of any or all of excess skin from weight loss, stubborn adipose tissue, and the lower separation of the abdominal muscles due to pregnancy or injury. A mini Tummy Tuck only addresses the lower abdomen, so it doesn’t require moving the belly button. This option has a smaller incision and recovery is the fastest.
- Full, Complete or “Classic” Tummy Tuck addresses fat, muscle and skin from a larger region. It contours the full abdomen area from just below the breasts down to the pubic area. This is necessary for more extreme contouring scenarios were there is a pouch or skin flap above and below the belly button. Since the complete abdomen is being contoured, the reconstruction of the navel is possibly necessary. A naval area incision hidden within the belly button can address upper abdominal region and a lower incision from hip to hip (which can usually be hidden within the bikini line) will allow for full frontal contouring. This results in a smooth, flat abdomen with a beautiful, tight, anatomically correct belly button.
- Extended Tummy Tuck contours the abdomen and waist to address both belly and love handles. It addresses the frontal abdomen area with the Full Tummy Tuck, but extends the incision so that liposuction and skin tightening can occur further around the body to contour the flanks, as well.
As long as weight at the time of the surgery is maintained, the smooth, flattened abdomen results should be permanent. This is why its recommended for women to wait to have a Tummy Tuck until after their done having children. Some women combine Abdominoplasty with Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift or Liposuction to other areas for a complete body makeover.
Having a smooth, flat abdomen is healthier, and looks great for both men and women. Feel great about you look in a swimsuit or form fitting clothes. Schedule your Tummy Tuck consultation today at www.davinciplastic.com.
Steven Davison M.D.
Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon
