A Partial Abdominoplasty Sculpts the Lower Abdomen
The most stubborn fat on the body is around the abdominal area. Even with exercise, the lower abdomen is the most difficult to tone. When the excess fat is lost, the skin often does not have the elasticity to present a smooth and toned look, leading to sagging skin. Moreover, this part of the body is a problem area for women who have just given birth. Pregnancy causes diastasis, which is a stretching of the abdominal muscles, which often does not go away on its own.
Excess sagging skin, excess fat, and drooping muscle tissues in the lower abdomen cannot be resolved using cosmetological methods. The ideal procedure to resolve the problem is the partial abdominoplasty, also called partial tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck. This procedure removes loose skin and fat deposits from below the belly button while tightening the muscles. There is no repositioning of the belly button, and the result is a flat lower abdomen with a sculpted look.
What Does a Partial Abdominoplasty Involve?
The procedure takes only between one and two hours and is usually done under general anesthesia. Local anesthesia may be used if the surgeon thinks it is suitable for you. A partial abdominoplasty may be performed with liposuction if there is any excess fat that needs to be removed.
The surgeon makes a short incision on the bikini line. Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed from the lower abdominal wall, and the muscles are tightened using internal sutures. The skin is pulled down, and the incision is closed with stitches.
Due to the minimal invasiveness of the procedure, an overnight stay in the hospital is all that is usually required after the surgery. A bandage and/or compression garment will be applied, which will help reduce swelling as well as help the skin of the lower abdomen better conform to the region’s new contours. The compression garment should be worn for up to two to three weeks after surgery.
Recovery and Results
It is recommended that patients take at least one to two weeks off of work after the procedure in order to recover properly. The patient’s diet should also be different during the recovery period; avoid fried, spicy, and salty food, as they may cause digestion problems that could complicate the healing process. Eat foods that are easy to digest so that bloodflow in the abdominal region is minimized, which will in turn minimize swelling.
Strenuous exercise should be avoided until after at least two months after the surgery. There may be mild discomfort and pain, but these can be controlled with the help of prescription pain medication, which the surgeon will provide if needed. The results of the procedure can last for many years, as long as proper care is taken of the body. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are key to maintaining a sculpted lower abdomen.
Is the Partial Abdominoplasty Right for You?
If you’re unhappy with the look of your abdomen, you may be in need of a partial or full abdominoplasty. To find out which option is right for you, contact our office for a consultation. Doctors Roger Friedman, Douglas Forman, and Kathy Huang are skilled board-certified plastic surgeons who will be happy to help.
