Excess fat tissue accumulation in the abdominal area can compromise the body contour. In many cases, the cosmetic surgeon may recommend tummy tuck surgery to reduce loose skin and excess fat in the abdomen, and in some cases, also tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. However, tummy tuck is a major procedure, and not everyone may be a suitable candidate.
In cases where the abdominal muscles are still tight or the skin is fairly elastic, the plastic surgeon may offer tummy tuck alternatives such as liposuction or mini tummy tuck. These are relatively less invasive procedures, and may be performed without general anesthesia. Leading plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides tummy tuck as well as its alternatives to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.
Liposuction
Liposuction in the abdominal area may be performed by a cosmetic surgeon to slim and reshape the abdomen through removal of localized excess fat deposits. The patient should have moderate and stable body weight and a reasonable amount of skin elasticity and good muscle tone in the tummy area in order to achieve best results.
Liposuction is usually performed using the tumescent technique, which involves only local anesthesia. The surgeon will place very small incisions in discreet areas around the abdomen, and inject a large volume of saline solution and anesthetic to minimize bleeding, bruising, and pain.
A thin, hollow cannula will then be inserted through the incisions to dislodge stubborn fat cells. The fat cells will be suctioned out through a syringe or a surgical vacuum attached to the other end of the cannula. Once the procedure is completed, the incisions will be closed with sutures. Enhanced abdominal contours will gradually be established as the bruising and swelling disappears.
It is important to note that liposuction is only suitable in the tummy and flanks area when the skin laxity is not excessive. The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis, recovery is much faster, and relatively painless as compared to a traditional tummy tuck surgery. Sometimes laser, ultrasound or RF techniques may be combined to make abdominal liposuction more effective.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Partial abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck is ideally suited for patients who only require minor removal of abdominal skin, and do not have a significantly protruding abdominal muscle wall. If the tummy is beginning to sag due to aging, or the candidate wants to sculpt a reasonably slim tummy into a more attractive shape may receive a mini tummy tuck procedure from a qualified plastic surgeon.
Mini tummy tuck is usually performed using local anesthesia and mild sedation. The incision length will depend on the amount of abdominal skin to be removed. In any case, the incision will be smaller than in the case of a full tummy tuck. The procedure is also sometimes called a ‘scarless tummy tuck’ because of the smaller incision and discreet scarring.
Repositioning of the navel is not involved in this procedure. Sometimes the surgeon may combine mini tummy tuck with liposuction to create a more appropriate abdominal shape. Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for this procedure.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: