Today, I want to talk about the importance of making a well-informed decision when you are considering cosmetic surgery. Specifically, let’s focus on one of the most requested procedures – the tummy tuck – and how you can determine which procedure might be best for you.
Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty is one of the top 5 plastic surgery procedures performed each year in the U.S. The traditional abdominoplasty involves removing a significant amount of loose, sagging skin, tightening the abdominal muscle wall, and reshaping the upper and lower abdomen. In the process, stretch marks in the area are eliminated and the navel is repositioned to accommodate the new contours of the body. The result is often dramatic, with the mid body restored to a taut, firm condition and a more youthful, attractive appearance.
Mini Abdominoplasty
A mini abdominoplasty (also known as a partial abdominoplasty or “mini tummy tuck”) is a variation on the full abdominoplasty, but designed to remove excess fat and loose skin only on the lower abdomen, below the navel. If you are within 10% of the ideal weight for your age and height and have relatively good skin tone and muscle tone on your upper abdomen, you may benefit from this procedure.
A mini abdominoplasty typically consists of removing excess fat and loose skin to correct a sagging lower belly. In some cases, the procedure includes tightening the lower abdominal muscles and/or doing liposuction to further sculpt the abdomen into an aesthetically pleasing shape and contour. Mini abdominoplasty will not eliminate stretch marks on your upper abdominal area, and the navel is left intact.
Which Procedure is Right for You?
To determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the mini abdominoplasty, it’s important for you to do your homework. If you’re reading this blog, you’re already on your way and that’s great! You’ll want to gather as much information as you need to help you make a choice that’s best for you and that you feel comfortable with.
If you know individuals who have undergone this procedure, you have the advantage of being able to learn about their experiences and ask questions you likely have. But even if you choose not to discuss it with anyone, you have a wealth of information at your disposal.
Do Your Research
The Internet is obviously an invaluable tool for gathering information. However, not all cosmetic surgery sites contain content that is reputable and accurate. If you are in the beginning phase of learning about mini abdominoplasty, we hope you’ll take time to view our site. Then, you might want to learn about what some others are doing to figure out which abdominoplasty procedure is right for them. Of the many consumer websites that focus on cosmetic surgery, we recommend that you check out the following:
Resources
- RealSelf – reviews of tummy tuck surgeries performed in the United States
- ASAPS – the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery has excellent before & after photos of tummy tucks
- Our site: Read more about tummy tuck surgery in San Francisco with Dr. Maddali
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: the ASPS has some good patient stories to read about tummy tuck surgery.
Tags: abdominoplasty, tummy tuck
