For those who have tried everything from diet to exercise but are still dissatisfied by excess skin or fat in the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck procedure in Washington DC may be just the right solution. A mini tuck, also known as a mini-abdominoplasty, is a body sculpting procedure that can restore a smoother, firmer abdominal area just below the belly button by removing excess skin. This procedure is perfect if you are looking for improved abdominal contours, the removal of old C-section scars, eliminating stretch marks, or if you simply would like to get rid of a few inches of skin or fat.
The Difference Between a Mini Tummy Tuck and a Full Tuck
A mini tummy tuck differs slightly from a full tummy tuck. It involves removing skin from the lower abdomen without making incisions around the belly button or tightening abdominal muscles above the belly button. A mini tummy tuck in Washington DC is most appropriate for those who need a little tightening between the belly button and the waist line. A full procedure, however, is more involved and is preferred for those with a lot of excess weight. If you are unsure of which procedure is a better fit for you, Dr. Pittman will discuss your goals and give personalized advice during your consultation.
What Happens During a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck requires general anesthesia and is performed as an outpatient procedure in our fully-accredited surgical suite. Once asleep, Dr. Pittman makes a single incision just above the pubic mound, through which excess skin and fat are removed. Liposuction may be used in this process. The amount of tissue removed is minimal, does not involve the belly button, and the stomach muscles are not tightened. This single incision is often called a bikini incision because the surgical scar can be hidden effectively by a bikini or underwear. The surgery can last from one to three hours and patients can experience a full recovery within four weeks.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Mini Abdominoplasty?
Qualified candidates for mini tummy tucks in DC are those individuals who are in good health and do not smoke. A mini tuck can also help you with the following issues:
- You have lost a considerable amount of weight and wish to eliminate excess fat beneath the belly button
- You have experienced a pregnancy or C-section that has resulted in stretched skin and a weakened abdominal wall beneath the belly button
- You are dissatisfied with your C-section scar and would like it revised
- You maintain a stable weight
- You do not have any conflicting health issues
Patients who wish to get rid of considerable amounts of abdominal fat and loose skin may not be good candidates for a mini tuck and may want to pursue the traditional procedure instead.
Risks and Recovery
As with any type of plastic surgery, there are risks to be considered with a mini tummy tuck procedure. These can include swelling, reactions to the anesthesia, bruising, infection at the surgical sites, or changes in skin sensation near the incision sites.
After the procedure is complete, Dr. Pittman might suggest options for postoperative pain relief. It may take seven to ten days for the swelling to subside and patients may need to wear an elastic compression bandage up to four weeks afterward.
You will have some scarring, but it should become much less noticeable over time. Patience is essential for this process because it typically takes two years for a scar to mature fully. The primary incision for a mini tummy tuck runs from one hip bone to the other, but the exact placement is crucial for concealing it. For example, it often follows the curve of the pubic region such that it's low enough for a bikini bottom or underwear to cover it.
A mini tummy tuck may also require an incision near the belly button, typically for the purpose of creating a new one. Your surgeon should hide this incision within the belly button itself rather than make it around it. Otherwise, this scar won't be concealed, especially if it doesn't heal well.
Another technique for minimizing scarring after surgery is to use tape and tension reduction sutures. In the case of a mini tummy tuck, it is possible to remove existing scars. This benefit typically applies to stretch marks below the belly button, especially when the surgeon removes a lot of excess skin. In cases where the stretch marks are above the belly button, the surgeon may be able to position them to a lower position on the abdomen.
Your time off of work primarily depends on your job's physical requirements. For typical office work, you should be able to return to work within three weeks. However, jobs that require physical exertion may require longer, especially if they involve carrying or lifting heavy objects. In these cases, you may need to return to light duty at first until your recovery is complete.
You will typically be able to see the initial results once most of the swelling subsides, typically within three weeks. Swelling may continue to go down during the next several months, further refining the contour of your new abdomen. However, it may take longer for your scars to heal fully.
The results of a mini tummy tuck can be long-term, provided you maintain a stable weight and exercise regularly. This is one of the most important reasons for you to already be close to your target weight before the surgery. Even a relatively modest fluctuation of ten pounds can noticeably affect your results, which is why you shouldn't get a mini tummy tuck if you plan to have more children. Pregnancy can separate the abdominal muscles again and re-stretch the skin, negating some of the benefits of your surgery.
Exercise is the main activity to be cautious about when returning to your normal routine after surgery. You should get clearance from your surgeon first, but you can generally begin light exercise within six weeks. It's essential that you not impede your recovery by becoming too active too quickly.
Sculpt a More Toned Body with a Mini Tummy Tuck in Washington DC
If you have tried other avenues to get rid of excess skin, stretch marks, or fat beneath your belly, and you wish to restore a firmer and more youthful look to your lower abdominal region, contact us about a mini tummy tuck in Washington DC. Dr. Pittman and his helpful staff can work with you to determine the best way to proceed with achieving a smoother and younger-looking abdomen.
