What Happens During a Tummy Tuck Procedure?
Typically performed after pregnancy or a dramatic weight loss, tummy tucks (also known as abdominoplasty) is an effective way to tighten and tone the abdominal area and remove any loose or excess skin. Tummy tucks tighten the abdominal muscles in addition to removing excess skin and fat because the muscles can become separated for a variety of reasons. This means that no matter how much you exercise and stick to a routine of healthy eating, you won’t be able to achieve a flat and athletic-looking stomach. A tummy tuck is a permanent solution to this problem.
Most people are unaware that there are multiple tummy tuck techniques to achieve different results. This makes the procedure customizable for the individual patient’s goals, lifestyle, and current physique.
What Are the Different Types of Tummy Tucks?
Dr. Kayastha performs four different variations of tummy tucks: the classic or “full” tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck, vertical or “Fleur de Lis” tummy tuck, and extended or circumferential tummy tuck.
Standard Tummy Tuck
This option is the most commonly chosen type of tummy tuck. Also referred to as a classic or full tummy tuck, the standard tummy tuck procedure is completed by making an incision from hip to hip across the lower abdomen as well as around the belly button. The technique allows for tightening the abdomen above and below the belly button, repairing the split abdominal muscles and removing any excess tissue. When this is complete, the belly button is repositioned into a natural-looking placement. A full tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck is an ideal procedure for patients who are troubled by loose skin or poor muscle definition below the belly button only. It is a less extensive procedure for patients seeking less dramatic changes.
During the mini tummy tuck procedure, a horizontal incision is made across the lower abdominal area. This incision is typically smaller than that of a standard tummy tuck, and no incision around the belly button is required. The excess skin and fat deposits from the lower abdominal area are then made, and the muscles of the lower abs may be tightened. In some cases, Dr. Kayastha may perform the procedure under local anesthesia in the office.
Vertical / Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck
The vertical or fleur de lis tummy tuck is an option for patients with more significant loose skin throughout the upper and lower abdomen. In this procedure, the same low, horizontal incision used in a standard tummy tuck is made in addition to a vertical incision through the midline of the abdomen. This allows Dr. Kayastha greater access to removing excess skin above the belly button, which is why it is a better option for patients with more severe skin laxity throughout the area. Despite the extra incision, a vertical tummy tuck involves a similar recovery process to a standard tummy tuck.
Circumferential Tummy Tuck
Also called a lower body lift, the circumferential tummy tuck offers the results of a standard tummy tuck as well as tightening the lower back, thighs, and buttocks. This is especially beneficial for patients who have loose skin throughout their lower body, and is commonly performed on patients who have lost a significant amount of weight.
To perform a lower body lift, Dr. Kayastha extends the incision of a standard tummy tuck around the midsection. This allows him to remove excess skin and tissue from the abdomen, sides, and back. The procedure is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia, and the recovery period is slightly longer than other types of tummy tucks, usually lasting about 4-6 weeks.
What Scars Can I Expect After a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tucks do result in some scarring, which can usually be easily concealed under your clothing, including most swimsuits. Scars depend of the specific tummy tuck procedure you have chosen, but the most common tummy tuck scar is from the low horizontal incision made from hip to hip as well as an inconspicuous scar around the belly button. Additional scarring will result from other incisions made, such as a vertical scar from a vertical tummy tuck. You can minimize scarring by carefully following Dr. Kayastha’s directions through your recovery process to aid in proper healing. Both during and after the healing process, he will recommend scar minimizing techniques such as scar massage or Fraxel laser to minimize any visible scarring.
What Type of Anesthesia is Used?
The type of anesthesia used depends on the specific type of tummy tuck you have undergone. In most cases, a tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia. Some mini tummy tucks, however, can be performed under local anesthesia and in Dr. Kayastha’s office rather than the hospital.
Can I Combine a Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures?
While there are several variations of tummy tucks available, there may be other areas of the body that you wish to address along with the midsection. Many patients seek tummy tucks after pregnancy or dramatic weight loss, which can effect other areas of the body as well. For this reason, it’s relatively common to pair a tummy tuck with another procedure.
After pregnancy, a tummy tuck is commonly undergone as part of what is known as a mommy makeover. A mommy makeover addresses multiple areas of the body that have been affected by pregnancy and may include a breast augmentation or breast lift among other options.
After dramatic weight loss, it’s common to experience loose, excess skin throughout the body. A tummy tuck can be paired with a procedure such as an arm lift, thigh lift, or breast lift to remove any excess tissue. You can read more on our site about Dr. Kayastha’s approach to body contouring after weight loss.
Schedule a Tummy Tuck Consultation
To find out if you’re a suitable tummy tuck candidate and which type of tummy tuck is best suited to your goals, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kayastha. During a thorough consultation in our Albany, NY office, he will be able to explain the procedure as it relates to you so that you may make an informed and confident decision. Call (518) 674-9060 or request your appointment online.
Dr. Kayastha is a board certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY and the entire Capital Region. Dr. Kayastha completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction in all subjects. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo. During his time in Buffalo he also completed a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. Following medical school Dr. Kayastha gained a much sought after position in the Michigan State-Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency. After finishing residency training Dr. Kayastha completed a one year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco. To round out his training before starting private practice Dr. Kayastha spent an additional 6 months learning from some of the best cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. Dr. Kayastha is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.