Mini Tummy Tuck Candidates
The lower abdomen is one of the most common problem areas for many men and women. For some people, proper diet and exercise just simply don't get lower belly fat to budge. Clothes don't look flattering, and the idea of wearing a swimsuit is dreadful.
If you're tired of doing ineffective exercises and being unhappy with your appearance, a mini tummy tuck might be a good solution for you. This less-invasive procedure can help eliminate stubborn fat and excess skin below your belly button, giving you the flatter abdomen you dream of. To help you understand this life-changing procedure, let's talk about what we look for in a suitable candidate at our San Antonio practice.
Lower Belly Fat
The main difference between a mini tummy tuck (or mini abdominoplasty) and a traditional tummy tuck is the location of the excess skin and fat to be removed. Mini abdominoplasty is appropriate for people whose fat deposits are located below the navel (belly button). If you want a flatter abdominal area both below and above the navel, a traditional tummy tuck will deliver better results.
Loose Skin from Pregnancy, Aging, or Weight Loss
Good candidates also include women who have stretched, saggy skin due to multiple pregnancies as well as older patients who have lost skin elasticity in the lower abdominal area. However, patients who plan to become pregnant again in the future should delay abdominoplasty until after they are done having children.
This procedure is also popular for patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight - either naturally or after bariatric surgery - and are bothered by excess skin on their lower abdomen. However, patients who are planning to lose more weight should postpone the procedure until they reach their ideal weight. It's important to note that abdominoplasty is not an alternative to weight loss.
Good Overall Health
Like candidates for any surgery, candidates for mini tummy tuck must be non-smokers in good health and in reasonably good shape, despite having trouble getting rid of fat deposits or loose skin in their lower midsection.
Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of complications, ruling out some people from having this surgery. Candidates should not have heart disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, morbid obesity, or psychiatric instability. People with a history of thromboembolic disease or who have abdominal scars that could compromise blood supply are usually not eligible.
You should also be committed to maintaining a balanced diet and daily exercise program that will give your body the nutrition and strength it needs to undergo and recover from surgery.
Realistic Expectations
Candidates should have realistic expectations about the benefits and limitations of the procedure. For example, patients who are overweight and want a perfectly flat abdomen may be deemed as having unrealistic expectations. Patients should openly and thoroughly discuss their concerns and expectations with their plastic surgeon during the initial consultation. Honest communication will help ensure you achieve the desired look and are satisfied with the results.
Patients should also be realistic about their recovery period and plan for assistance. You will need a solid support system of family and friends who can help by getting you home safely, cooking your meals, going to the pharmacy, caring for your children or pets, and ensuring you feel comfortable and are healing well.
Learn More about Mini Tummy Tuck
Dr. Constance Barone is a skilled plastic surgeon who can help you reach your goals and create a taut, fit-looking midsection. If you would like more information about the mini tummy tuck procedure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation.