Tummy tuck is one of the most ‘worth it’ plastic surgery procedures. In 2020, there were more than 97,000 abdominoplasty procedures completed in the US alone. This procedure is common with women who have been through childbearing and individuals (regardless of gender) who are looking to reverse adverse abdominal changes caused by weight fluctuations or aging. If you are looking forward to having a tummy tuck in Baton Rouge, it is important to note what options are available. This page explores the mini tummy tuck procedure.

What is a mini tummy tuck?

A mini tummy tuck is the least invasive type of abdominoplasty procedure. It is ideal for patients who have excess skin or an abdominal ‘pooch’ that is confined to the lower belly. Plastic surgeons perform this procedure by creating tiny incisions through which they remove excess fat and tissue. Because a tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure, it results in faster recovery compared to other types of abdominoplasty.

Ideal candidates for a partial abdominoplasty

A mini tummy tuck procedure utilizes a smaller incision and thus has more limited applications compared to other types of abdominoplasty. You may be a good candidate for this cosmetic surgery if:

• You are in good overall health
• You have a steady weight and are within your ideal weight range
• You are bothered by mild imperfections such as excess flab, loose skin, or stretch marks that are confined to the lower abdominal region
• You have realistic expectations about the outcome of this procedure

Attending a consultation with a plastic surgeon is the best way to see whether this procedure is for you.

How do I prepare for a mini tummy tuck?

Preparing for your cosmetic surgery can go a long way to ensure a successful procedure outcome. During one of your consultation visits with Dr. Erick Sanchez, you will be asked to quit smoking (at least four weeks before the date of the surgery). Most plastic surgeons also recommend that you stop drinking before and after your partial abdominoplasty. Certain types of medication such as NSAIDs that can increase the risk of bleeding should be avoided before any surgical procedure. Arrange to have someone who should drive you home after the surgery and help out with chores over the first few days of recovery. Focusing on a healthy diet and staying hydrated can also help your body get ready for invasive surgery.

How is a mini tummy tuck procedure performed?

A mini tummy tuck is an outpatient procedure that may be performed under general anesthesia or local sedation. Once the patient has been sedated, plastic surgeons create a surgical incision running horizontally right above the pubic bone. While the location of the incision is the same as that of a traditional tummy tuck, it is much smaller. The surgeon will then use this cut to remove excess skin that is causing abdominal sagging. In some cases, the underlying abdominal muscles may be tightened before the skin is redraped and the incision closed. Once the desired changes have been made, the patient will be moved to an observation room where their vitals will be monitored before they are allowed to go home for recovery. It is important to note that during a tummy tuck, the surgeon does not touch the belly button.

Recovery after a mini tummy tuck

Recovery following a mini tummy tuck varies from one patient to the other, depending on the specifics of the surgery and each person’s healing capacity. Nevertheless, recovery after mini-abdominoplasty tends to be significantly shorter compared to recovery after a standard or circumferential tummy tuck. You’ll be asked to take complete rest over the first 24 hours after surgery. You may be able to take light walks around the house thereafter in order to promote proper blood flow. Most mini tummy tuck patients tend to experience bruising, swelling, discomfort, and inflammation. Your surgeon will provide pain medication to improve these side effects and antibiotics to prevent infection. The majority of patients are able to resume light work within two weeks. However, it may be six weeks before you are allowed to engage in strenuous activities such as heavy lifting and aerobic exercises. Adhering to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions can help ensure that the recovery process is as smooth as possible.

What are the risks of a mini tummy tuck?

Like any other surgical procedure, a partial abdominoplasty has its fair share of risks. These may include excess bleeding, infection at the incision site, damaged muscles or nerves, blood clots, numbness, tingling, excessive scarring, edema in the legs, and changes in skin color. Qualified board-certified plastic surgeons such as Dr. Erick Sanchez utilized advanced surgical methods to achieve the desired outcome while also minimizing the risk of complications.