Tummy Tuck vs Mini Tummy Tuck: Which is Right for Me?

A traditional tummy tuck is a great way to tighten and tone the midsection, but many patients can achieve their cosmetic goals with a procedure known as a mini tummy tuck. When it comes down to a tummy tuck vs mini tummy tuck procedure, in addition to treating a slightly different area of the body, mini tummy tucks often have a much shorter recovery time. There are a few differences between these two popular cosmetic procedures.

Treating Loose Abdominal Skin

One of the reasons why tummy tucks remain so popular is due to the prevalence of stubborn abdominal fat and loose skin around the midsection. No matter how much time you spend at the gym or how well you eat, these cosmetic problems could plague you for years. That is because our bodies go through a number of unwanted changes as we grow older. Not only will your metabolism begin to slow down, but your skin will not be as elastic as it once was.

Losing weight at a slower rate can reduce one’s risk of extra soft tissue around the midsection, but it is not a perfect tactic. There may come a time when you are still unhappy with the appearance of your midsection even after you have reached your ideal weight. When that takes place, a tummy tuck could be the most effective way to help you regain your self-confidence.

A Traditional Tummy Tuck

As of 2016, around 116,000 tummy tucks are carried out in the United States every single year. The primary goal of a tummy tuck is to flatten one’s stomach by altering the position of the soft tissue and removing excess skin and fat. Tummy tucks are carried out under general anesthesia. Traditional tummy tucks can be combined with liposuction if the patient has extra fat they would like removed as well.

Mini Tummy Tucks

Regarding the tummy tuck vs mini tummy tuck procedures, the biggest difference is what can be treated. Mini tummy tucks are only appropriate for flattening the area just below the belly button. Because the treatment area is much smaller, the incision can be smaller as well. The surgeon can also avoid lifting the belly button away from the muscles underneath.

Tummy Tuck vs Mini Tummy Tuck: Making the Right Choice

Patients who only want minor alterations made just below the belly button might benefit from a mini tummy tuck. This particular procedure also has a much shorter recovery time. For those who would like more comprehensive changes, however, a full tummy tuck will most likely be necessary.

During your initial consultation with our surgeon at The John Bull Center for Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Medispa, you will be given a full list of the pros and cons of each of these procedures. Our office is located in Naperville. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.