Getting rid of stomach fat often feels like an impossible feat. No matter how much a person exercises or how well he or she eats, layers of fat can accumulate around the abdomen as the years go by. For those that are ready to enjoy a flat and toned stomach, full and, Mini tummy tucks are two popular options. Here is a glimpse of exactly what takes place with these two procedures and to help determine the one that may be right for you.
Accumulating Belly Fat
Fat serves some important purposes in the human body. In addition to providing energy when an individual is in a caloric deficit, it also helps cushion bones and organs. This is why the stomach is one of the first places that layers of fat develop, as it will protect organs throughout the midsection.
A patient may begin to notice an accumulation of belly fat due to their age, stress levels, genetics, and hormones. When shedding pounds, stomach fat is often the last to go. Patients who have loose skin from extreme changes in their weight or multiple pregnancies may also want to consider one of these highly effective procedures.
A Full Tummy Tuck
Also called an abdominoplasty, a full tummy tuck is a procedure that is designed to flatten and tone the stomach. The exact details of this procedure change between every single patient, but it typically begins by making an incision between the hipbones after a patient has been given general anesthesia. The two primary goals of a full tummy tuck are to remove excess skin around the abdomen and to repair any damage to the abdominal muscles. The total time needed for this surgery ranges from two to five hours.
A Mini Tummy Tuck
Patients who have a “pouch” of fat on the lower half of their abdomen may benefit from a mini tummy tuck. After the patient has been administered general anesthesia, a small incision is made just above the pubic bone. A layer of fat is then removed before the skin is reshaped. The doctor may also suggest repairing the abdominal wall to ensure proper healing and a toned appearance. Mini tummy tucks can typically be carried out in under two hours.
Which Is Right for Me?
There are a few variables that a patient will want to consider when deciding between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck. The biggest factor is how much the stomach must be reshaped. If the stomach requires extensive fat removal and skin excision, then a full tummy tuck will often be a better choice. Fully tummy tucks also take longer to carry out, have a longer recovery period, and are pricier. Mini tummy tucks, on the other hand, are exclusively used to reshape the lowest portion of the stomach.
Dr. Anthony Stephens will be able to assist you in deciding which tummy tuck procedure is right for you. He can answer any questions or concerns you might have about the procedure and its results. Contact us today at J. Anthony Stephens Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation.
