Weight loss and child birth can lead to excess abdominal skin that just won't go away. Sometimes, diet and exercise alone are not enough to create a beautiful, flat stomach. Fortunately, there are different types of tummy tucks, or abdominoplasty, to address specific problem areas. For those with minimal sagging, a mini tummy tuck may be the best option, while those with greater amounts of excess skin may better benefit from a traditional or extended tummy tuck. To find out which treatment is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dina Eliopoulos.
The mini tummy tuck procedure is intended to improve the appearance of the lower abdominal area, making it a good option for those are unhappy with the lower stomach area. The mini tummy tuck, also referred to as a partial or mini abdominoplasty, is performed by making a small incision along the lower abdomen. This smaller incision makes the mini tummy tuck less invasive than other abdominoplasty treatments. Once the incisions are made, excess fat is removed and the skin and muscles are pulled smooth. Any excess skin and muscle is also removed and the tissue is stitched back in place. Mini tummy tucks generally have a quicker recovery time and less scarring than other tummy tuck methods.
For those wishing to improve the entire abdominal area, a traditional tummy tuck may be more suitable. The traditional tummy tuck requires a larger incision than the mini tummy tuck and is performed by creating an incision from hip to hip along the lower abdomen. The muscles are tightened and excess fat and skin are removed. The traditional tummy tuck can also be performed with liposuction for further body sculpting. Most patients will experience some degree of scarring, however, care is taken to keep incision scars in areas that can be covered by underwear and swimsuits.
For some, the mini tummy tuck and traditional tummy tuck may not be able to provide the body transformation desired. In such instances, the extended tummy tuck may be the best option. Extended tummy tucks are used to remove excess skin from not only the abdomen, but also the upper hip and lower back. Even the flank areas, commonly called “love handles,” can be treated with an extended tummy tuck. Extended tummy tucks can be life changing for those who have experienced extreme weight loss. Because extended tummy tucks require a longer incision that extends around to the back, recovery time is generally longer than mini and traditional tummy tucks.
Tummy tucks offer many long-term benefits like improved confidence and appearance. To find out if you're a candidate for the mini tummy tuck, traditional tummy tuck, or extended tummy tuck, or to learn more information about the cosmetic procedures offered by Dr. Eliopoulos, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at our Chelmsford plastic surgery practice.
Plastic surgery isn’t just about people changing their look—it's about making you feel good about being you. Whether you need breast augmentation, a breast lift, liposuction or Botox, Dr. Dina Eliopoulos is here for you. For over 20 years, patients have sought out the care and results that Dr. Eliopoulos can create in her beautiful Chelmsford, Massachusetts office. The peace of mind that comes from a board-certified, residency- and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon is hard to parallel. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Eliopoulos today to experience the difference for yourself.
