What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that can eliminate excess skin, stretch marks, scars, and fat from the abdominal area. It tends to be carried out after women have given birth or on those who have lost a significant amount of weight and have excess skin left over.

While the procedure can remove some excess fat, it isn’t a good alternative to weight loss. Liposuction can be used to suck out stubborn pockets of fat and improve contouring further in many cases. Ideally, you will undergo the procedure after losing weight.

There are two different types of tummy tucks patients can undergo. They include a full and a mini tummy tuck. Both procedures come with their own pros and cons, so it helps to understand each one before deciding which procedure is right for you.

Should I have a full or mini tummy tuck?

Traditional tummy tucks are full abdominoplasty procedures. They remove a larger portion or all of the excess skin and fat below the umbilicus. The muscles are also usually tightened during the procedure flattening the abdomen and narrowing the waist.

A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure, though the surgeon will still remove excess fat and skin. The main difference between the two is that the umbilicus isn’t typically moved during a mini tummy tuck and only a portion of the skin under the umbilicus is removed. It is only suited to a smaller number of relatively slim patients with a limited amount of skin excess in the lower abdomen only.

The majority of patients usually require a full abdominoplasty, particularly after childbirth or significant weight loss.

Would liposuction be a better alternative?

A tummy tuck is good for removing excess skin and tightening up the tummy muscles. If your main issue is excess fat in the abdomen, liposuction may be a good alternative. However, this only applies if there is only a small stubborn area of fat to remove. Liposuction alone doesn’t tighten up the muscles or address any loose skin. So, a tummy tuck would be required if these issues are present.

To determine whether a tummy tuck would be the right procedure for you, book a consultation today.