Types of Tummy Tuck

For some, child birth, weight loss, and aging can stand in the way of a beautiful, flat stomach. If you suffer from excess skin around the abdomen that won't go away with diet and exercise, you may already be considering a tummy tuck. Though you may be aware of the tummy tuck procedure, you may not know that you have options. There are different types of tummy tucks designed to treat specific needs. To determine which treatment is right for you, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at the Gatineau plastic surgery practice of Dr. Patricia Berbari. Before your consultation, we've compiled this overview to help you understand the different types of tummy tuck procedures.

The type of tummy tuck that is right for you is based on your needs and desired results, and is best determined between you and your surgeon. There are three types of tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, procedures available. These treatments include mini tummy tuck, traditional tummy tuck, and extended tummy tuck.

The Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure

The mini tummy tuck is a great option for people with excess skin that is isolated to the lower abdominal area. The mini tummy tuck, sometimes called a partial or mini abdominoplasty, is the least invasive of the tummy tuck procedures largely due to the fact that smaller incisions are required. The mini tummy tuck is performed by making a small incision along the lower abdomen; excess fat is then removed and the skin and muscles are pulled taut. Once the excess tissue is removed, the incision is stitched closed. Because mini tummy tucks require smaller incisions, they have a quicker recovery time and less scarring than other tummy tuck methods.

The Traditional Tummy Tuck Procedure

The traditional tummy tuck procedure is suitable for those wishing to contour their entire abdominal area. Sometimes, liposuction is performed in conjunction with the tummy tuck procedure to further shape the stomach. The traditional tummy tuck is performed by creating an incision along the lower abdomen. This incision extends from hip to hip. Excess fat and tissue are removed and the skin and muscles are tightened. Once the proper amount of contouring has been achieved, the incision is closed. Scarring is to be expected with this treatment, however, most undergarments and swimwear will cover the scars.

The Extended Tummy Tuck Procedure

For those who suffer from significant amounts of lose abdominal skin due to extreme weight loss, an extended tummy tuck may be the best option. Extended tummy tucks are used to remove skin from the abdomen, upper hip, lower back, and flank areas (or “love handles”). Extended tummy tucks include a traditional tummy tuck along with the removal of excess skin and fat along the back and flanks.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Berbari

For our patients in Gatineau, tummy tuck treatment results in many long term benefits. Patients who have undergone the tummy tuck procedure feel increased confidence from finally having the flat, sculpted stomach diet and exercise were unable to provide. To see which tummy tuck procedure is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Berbari.