By Jerome Edelstein, MD
Whether as a result of weight fluctuations, multiple pregnancies or the natural aging process, sagging, lax skin and separated abdominal muscles create a frustrating problem for many people. Diet and exercise can ensure that you are healthy but surgical solutions are often required to solve these body contour issues. In Toronto, abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck procedures are a popular option for abdominal restoration and figure reshaping. Although a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck are both popular procedures, more patients request a mini tummy tuck due to its numerous advantages, including its less invasive nature, smaller incision, and shorter recovery time.
Less Invasive Nature
Because a mini tummy tuck only addresses the lower abdomen, it is a less invasive surgery than a traditional tummy tuck. The more extensive, full tummy tuck often takes as long as four hours, while a mini tummy tuck can usually be completed within two hours.
Smaller Incision
Although the overall goal of both a full and mini tummy tuck is to eliminate unwanted abdominal tissue and sagging skin, while tightening muscles in the abdominal wall, a mini tummy tuck will only allow your surgeon to make changes in the lower abdomen.A full tummy tuck necessitates a large incision from hip to hip across the lower abdomen, but the shorter incision made during a mini tummy tuck can be strategically placed in the pubic region, to ensure that it is inconspicuous. Many patients prefer this technique because it results in a much smaller scar, which is easier to conceal. In addition, unlike a full abdominoplasty procedure, a mini tummy tuck does not require the reconstruction of the navel, which ensures that there is no scarring around the belly button.
Shorter Recovery Time
Since a mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure than a full tummy tuck, in many cases, the required recovery time is greatly reduced. Patients who undergo a full abdominoplasty often require two to three weeks to recover, while those who opt for a mini tummy tuck may be able to return to daily activities in as little as one to two weeks due to less swelling and discomfort. However, it is important to be aware that everyone is unique and will therefore heal at a different rate.While many patients would prefer to undergo a mini tummy tuck due to the aforementioned benefits, individuals with excess skin and fat above the navel are better suited to a full tummy tuck, which offers much more dramatic results and improves the abdominal contour both above and below the belly button. To learn more about this procedure and to determine your eligibility for a mini tummy tuck in Toronto, we welcome you to contact our clinic to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jerome Edelstein or Dr. Kunaal Jindal.