Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) addresses excess skin around the belly. The two most popular techniques, full abdominoplasty and mini-abdominoplasty, can both accomplish this, but to slightly different degrees.
During a full tummy tuck, excess skin is removed from both the upper and lower portions of the belly. During a mini tummy tuck, excess skin is removed from the lower abdomen alone.
When necessary, abdominal muscles can be pulled back together during full tummy tuck surgery, helping to restore desirable dimensions to the waist. By contrast, a mini tummy tuck does not address separated abdominal muscles.
With both techniques, stubborn fat deposits can be removed using liposuction, helping to produce a firmer, more toned, and more attractive shape to the midsection. Both procedures may also be useful in the reduction or elimination of stretch marks depending on their location and size.
Which Option is Best for Me?
Mini tummy tuck surgery is ideal for people with excess fat and skin obscuring the lower portion of the abdomen. Full tummy tuck surgery is better for people with excess skin and fat throughout the belly, as well as those who have been diagnosed with diastasis recti, the separation of abdominal muscles.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Andrea Doyle has the experience and qualifications necessary to guide you towards the best option for your needs. During your initial consultation, she will listen closely to your desires, fully assess your abdominal area, and make recommendations based on your anatomy, with the express intention of helping you reach your goals.
Is Abdominoplasty for Weight Loss?
Fat can be removed from the belly during both full and mini tummy tuck, but neither technique is an effective method of weight loss. If you are significantly overweight, it is best to come closer to your goal BMI through diet and exercise before undergoing an abdominoplasty procedure. If you have lost substantial amounts of weight and are now experiencing loose and sagging skin throughout the body, tummy tuck can be combined with other body lift procedures – such as thigh and arm lift – to restore an ideally contoured look to the entire frame.
To learn more about tummy tuck surgery and your candidacy for the procedure, please call the Centre for Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery at 401-336-3770 today. Located in East Greenwich, we welcome people from all surrounding areas of Rhode Island.
