Tummy tuck – also referred to as abdominoplasty – is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries today. Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) show that more than 97,000 of these procedures were performed in the United States alone. The majority of patients choose this procedure because it is an excellent way to reduce excess fat and skin from the abdominal area while also strengthening the underlying muscles. In some cases, people may have a tummy tuck in order to address medical issues such as a hernia. If you have been thinking about having this cosmetic treatment, it is important to know what procedure options are available for you. This article highlights the 3 most common types of abdominoplasty in Baton Rouge.
Mini tummy tuck
This is the least invasive type of abdominoplasty. Plastic surgeons focus on removing stubborn fat and excess skin in the lower abdominal region. This procedure is common with men and women who have a lower belly ‘pooch’ that won’t respond to exercise and diet. During the surgery, a horizontal incision is created close to the pubic (where it can be easily concealed by undergarments). The plastic surgeon will then remove excess skin and fat without touching the underlying abdominal muscles. It is also important to notice that the belly button and upper abdominal areas are not touched. A mini-abdominoplasty requires the least amount of time to recover and most patients are able to resume routine work within 2 weeks. Since the procedure requires less work compared to other types of a tummy tuck, it is also less expensive.
Standard tummy tuck
A standard tummy tuck – also referred to as a traditional tummy tuck – is the most common type of abdominoplasty performed in Baton Rouge and surrounding LA areas. Dr. Ruston Sanchez uses this procedure technique to address significant aesthetic issues in both the lower and upper abdominal areas. During the surgery, a horizontal incision is created along the pubic line. The surgeon will strengthen the underlying abdominal muscles and then remove excess skin. The belly button is usually repositioned during this treatment, and liposuction may be used to remove excess pockets of fat in the entire abdominal area. This technique results in significant re-contouring of the abdominal area to result in a firmer and flatter belly appearance. Because this technique is more invasive than a mini tummy tuck, patients can expect to take a little more time to recover. Dr. Sanchez utilizes advanced surgical techniques to achieve the desired objectives while also minimizing the risk of scarring and other side effects.
Circumferential tummy tuck
A circumferential tummy tuck is also referred to as an extended tummy tuck. This is the most comprehensive type of abdominoplasty. Plastic surgeons focus on recontouring the entire midsection area, including the lower back and sides. Because this procedure removes a lot more skin from an extended area, it is common among individuals who have experienced significant weight loss. During this procedure, Dr. Sanchez creates a horizontal incision along the bikini line (as is the case with a standard tummy tuck). A secondary, vertical incision is created along the midline to allow greater access to the underlying abdominal tissue. Once this is done, comprehensive re-contouring is performed to remove excess fat and tissue around the midsection area. Depending on the extent of the treatment and the goals of the surgery, the procedure may be performed in one sitting or staged over two different visits. Recovery time can be expected to be significantly longer compared to other types of abdominoplasty. There’s also a higher risk of wound healing complications following this procedure. The surgeon will provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and offer the support you need to ensure prompt and uninterrupted recovery.
Schedule your tummy tuck consultation
The right type of tummy tuck will depend on your problem areas and aesthetic goals. During your initial consultation with Dr. Sanchez in Baton Rouge, the surgeon will listen to your concern and examine your abdomen before recommending the next course of action. Dr. Sanchez will also use this visit to answer all your questions and share any information you may need regarding the surgical techniques used, recovery, and expected results. In some cases, patients may choose to combine their tummy tuck with another procedure (such as liposuction or a breast lift). This is especially common with women who have been through childbearing and are looking to revert to their pre-pregnancy appearance. Dr. Sanchez is happy to create a befitting and individualized treatment plan for each one of his patients.