Is a stubborn area of stretched, sagging skin and fat on your lower belly keeping you from feeling comfortable and confident in swimsuits or other form-fitting clothing? Pregnancy, aging and genetics are common culprits behind a belly “pooch,” and unfortunately, diet and exercise are often ineffective in helping to get rid of it!
If you are bothered by the appearance of your lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck with Dr. Emily Kirby may help you get the results you want with a relatively short recovery.
A modified version of the abdominoplasty, a mini tummy tuck removes excess, sagging tissue from the lower abdomen (below the belly button) to restore a firmer, flatter and slimmer silhouette. Depending on your needs, Dr. Kirby can also remove some stretch marks located below the belly button during surgery or even tighten mildly lax muscles.
Whenever possible, Dr. Kirby uses drainless tummy tuck techniques to achieve beautiful results with a quicker, more comfortable recovery.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A MINI TUMMY TUCK?
A mini tummy tuck may be a great option if you are healthy and at a stable weight, without a large excess of abdominal skin. Typically, the best candidates are primarily concerned about loose skin or a protruding lower belly only—if you have significant stretched, sagging skin or muscles, a full tummy tuck may achieve better results.
Mini tummy tuck surgery is not a substitute for weight loss or a healthy exercise program. Although the results are lasting, the outcome can be influenced by changes in your weight following surgery. If you are planning substantial weight loss or if you are considering future pregnancy, you may be advised to postpone mini tummy tuck surgery.
WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE AFTER A MINI TUMMY TUCK?
After surgery, you should expect to have some soreness, swelling, bruising, and some temporary changes in sensation. Typically you can expect to return to work within 1-2 weeks after your procedure, depending on your occupation. You will not be able to return to strenuous activity, however, until 4-6 weeks following surgery. Gentle walking is encouraged starting the day of surgery. Soreness will likely last for several weeks. You will wear a fitted garment following surgery to help your body heal appropriately. You may have drains placed at the time of surgery that require management.
Stitches placed during your surgery will dissolve over time and will not need to be removed after surgery. You may also have skin glue or other skin tape and dressings placed at the time of surgery that will remain for a while post-operatively.
If your operation involves tightening the abdominal muscles, you will be asked to keep a slightly flexed position at the waist (walking slightly hunched over) for about 2 weeks after surgery. During this time you may want to place a pillow under your knees while in bed to keep the pressure off of your incision as it heals. Your abdomen will relax as part of the healing process after surgery.