Tummy Tuck - Beyond Lipo

There is a common confusion regarding tummy tuck that suggests that this type of plastic surgery is just strategic liposuction. This is partially true, but it doesn’t end there. This article serves to explain what is involved in an abdominoplasty, as well as to identify a few variations of the procedure.

Full Abdominoplasty

This form of tummy tuck involves an incision from nearly one hipbone to the other. It is reserved for patients with the most extensive reconstruction needs. Once the incision is placed, the surgeon may perform liposuction in some areas if needed, but the main portion of the procedure that sets it apart from the other variations is the muscle work performed. The abdominal muscles, likely elongated and stretched from child bearing or significant weight gain and subsequent loss, are pulled into a tighter, flatter position and stitched together at that point. The extra skin and tissues are removed before closing the incision at the conclusion of surgery.

A full tummy tuck is recommended for those who have diligently tried and failed to strengthen and firm their abdominal muscles through regular exercise as well as proper nutrition.

Mini Abdominoplasty

The mini form of this type of enhancement involves a shorter incision and omits the muscle-tightening portion of the full procedure. The surgeon focuses on the lower abdominal area, below the belly button. At times liposuction is used, but most commonly, the surgeon removes the excess loose skin and tissues and pulls the skin taut to close the incision.

Good candidates for a mini abdominoplasty are those who, through diet and exercise, can feel firm abs, but they’re underneath a stubborn layer of fat that they can’t seem to get rid of.

Liposuction

Some patients who are looking for a smaller waistline have both firm abdominal muscles as well as taut skin. These patients possibly have a bulge around their middle region that they can’t whittle away with working out. This group of patients will only require liposuction to remove the excess fat from under the skin. Less extensive surgical intervention is always the goal, and often with this type of liposuction, only the minimal amount of local anesthesia is required.

Prudent plastic surgeons perform in-depth analysis of their patients and their medical history, lifestyle and expectations prior to committing to any surgery. Based on a patient’s personal goals, a treatment plan is devised. But they will alert you to the important fact that any form of plastic surgery, particularly a tummy tuck, is no replacement for a healthy diet and the regular participation in an exercise plan. These procedures are reserved for those who have not been successful in losing the last few pounds they desire to lose, and those who have not achieved the results they want through a workout program.