Did you know at Gawley Plastic Surgery, we offer several types of tummy tucks? Each method performed in Scottsdale, Arizona, is personalized for specific patient abdominal concerns. Commonly known as a tummy tuck, an abdominoplasty eliminates loose, excess skin and fat, and if necessary, tightens the abdominal muscles to create a firm, flat stomach and smaller waist line.
So how do you know which tummy tuck is ideal for you? The answer depends on your physical anatomy and your goals, and a consultation with one of our surgeons is necessary to determine the best option for you.
Full Tummy Tuck
The full tummy tuck is perfect for individuals who want to flatten their midsection, above and below their belly button. Also referred to as a traditional or standard abdominoplasty, a full tummy tuck generally involves a horizontal incision below the belly, between the hipbones. It requires an incision around the belly button.
During a full tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon removes the excess skin, tightens the abdominal muscles, and pulls the skin down over the stomach. Liposuction techniques may also be used to improve the contour of the mid-section by reducing excess fat. After the aesthetic goals are met, the incisions are closed, and the recovery typically lasts around two weeks.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Do you have a stubborn lower belly pouch that seems to be resistant to diet and exercise? The mini tummy tuck may be your ideal solution to this concern. The goal of this procedure is to flatten the small bulge between the belly button and hip area. During this procedure, the surgeon creates a smaller incision between the hipbones than the full tummy tuck (generally covered by bikini bottoms). Then the underlying muscles are tightened, and any excess skin and fat are removed.
Because of the smaller size and scope of this procedure, patients generally enjoy a faster recovery that lasts about one week. However, any excess skin or fat above the belly button is not addressed.
Extended Tummy Tuck
This procedure is a more extensive version of the full tummy tuck, with a horizontal incision that extends across the lower belly and around the hips. The goal of this technique is to address stubborn areas of excess skin on the stomach, hips, and lower back. Liposuction is generally performed in conjunction of the extended tummy tuck to achieve the desired contour. Patients should expect a longer recovery with this technique, generally lasting more than three weeks.
Which Tummy Tuck is Right for You?
This matter can only be decided after a personal consultation with one of our surgeons. Although the amount and location of excess skin is a factor in determining the tummy tuck technique, other factors of your natural anatomy should be analyzed. For example, the quality of your skin and your body type can both impact your results. To achieve your ideal abdominoplasty results, schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified surgeons today to understand more about what is appropriate for you.