Traditional Tummy Tuck
In a full tummy tuck procedure, a skilled surgeon makes a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen, extending from one hip to the other. This incision provides access to the underlying tissues, enabling the precise removal of excess skin and fat. Additionally, the surgeon meticulously tightens and sutures the abdominal muscles, addressing any separation or weakness to enhance core strength and stability. As part of the procedure, the position of the navel may be adjusted or repositioned to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking result. This comprehensive approach ensures not only the removal of unwanted tissue but also the restoration of a firm, toned abdominal contour.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck differs in that is a more localized version of the tummy tuck, concentrating on the area from the belly button down the lower abdomen and the pubic bone. The incision for a mini tummy tuck is shorter and situated lower on the abdomen than that of a full tummy tuck. Typically, this incision is made horizontally just above the pubic area, mirroring the incision pattern utilized in a C-section surgery.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is like the deluxe version of a traditional tummy tuck. It brings all the perks of a traditional tummy tuck, but also integrates the flanks, commonly referred to as the "love handles," depending on how well a given pair of pants fits. Most often, the flank area get a little bit of liposuction on each side and excess skin is removed, giving the whole midsection a 360 upgrade. When in Rome, right?
Fleur-de-lis Tummy Tuck
A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck, sometimes referred to as a vertical tummy tuck, is a "special edition" version of the traditional tummy tuck. While both tummy tuck varieties strive for similar objectives, they strategy to get there is different.
In a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck, an additional vertical incision is made along the midline of the abdomen. The vertical incision allows for greater access to the upper abdomen, making it particularly effective for individuals with significant excess skin and fat placed both horizontally and vertically. This is fairly normal among patients who have lost a significant amount of weight as they often have more excess skin to remove.
While the fleur-de-lis tummy tuck offers the advantage of addressing excess skin and fat in multiple directions, it does come with the trade-off of a second incision and increases chances of tummy tuck scars and adds some time to a tummy tuck recovery timeline.
Tummy Tuck: Belly Button Questions Answered
Ah, the belly button—often overlooked but certainly not forgotten component of a premium tummy tuck! During a tummy tuck, your belly button is like an island that the surgeon carefully works around. Your belly button might undergo a little glow up of its one, perhaps a bit of tucking, or even a full-on reshaping to complement your sleek new silhouette.