Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery

Dr. Luke Cusimano, FACS

Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery

Jul 10, 2023 | Blog

Abdominoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries today. This treatment is popular with men or women who are looking to address abdominal imperfections to achieve a tighter and flatter midsection profile. If you have thought about undergoing an abdominoplasty in Baton Rouge LA, this article highlights the different types of tummy tuck techniques that Dr. Cusimano offers. 

Mini Tummy Tuck

The mini tummy tuck (partial abdominoplasty) is a technique that is meant to address minor abdominal concerns and provide a more contoured appearance. It is a less invasive alternative to a full tummy tuck, focusing on the lower abdominal area below the navel.

Who can benefit from a partial abdominoplasty? 

Dr. Luke Cusimano may recommend the mini tummy tuck to Louisiana patients who: 

  • Have localized excess skin and fat below the belly button
  • Experience mild abdominal muscle laxity
  • Are in good health and at a stable weight
  • Desire an improvement in the lower abdomen without the need for extensive surgery

Mini tummy tuck procedure approach 

The focus of a mini tummy tuck is to enhance the appearance of the lower abdomen. Plastic surgeons typically follow the following procedure during a partial abdominoplasty treatment: 

Step 1: Anaesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the treatment. 

Step 2: A smaller incision compared to a full tummy tuck, often hidden within the bikini line

Step 3: Excess skin and fat are removed 

Step 4: Limited muscle tightening (if needed)

Step 5: Sutures are used to create a firmer abdominal contour

Step 6: The treatment area is covered in bandages 

Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck (full abdominoplasty) is the traditional abdominal recontouring procedure that aims to transform the appearance of both the upper and lower abdomen. This cosmetic treatment addresses excess skin, fat, and muscle laxity in the entire abdominal area to achieve a smoother and firmer abdominal contour.

Who can benefit from a complete tummy tuck?

You may be the right candidate for a full tummy tuck if you: 

  • Are in good overall health and at a stable weight
  • Have significant excess skin and fat in the abdominal region (above and below) the navel
  • Have pronounced abdominal muscle separation or weakness
  • Desire a comprehensive transformation of the entire abdominal area

Standard tummy tuck procedure

During a full tummy tuck surgery, plastic surgeons follow the following steps to achieve the desired objectives. 

Step 1: Anesthesia is administered by a qualified and certified anesthesiologist. 

Step 2: An incision is created along the lower abdomen – typically extending from hip to hip

Step 3: Excess skin and fat are removed 

Step 4: Abdominal muscles are repaired through suturing 

Step 5: The navel is repositioned (if needed) for a natural appearance

Step 6: The treatment area is bandaged 

Circumferential Tummy Tuck

This is the most comprehensive type of abdominoplasty. It is also referred to as a belt lipectomy and is designed to address excess skin and fat around the entire waistline. Unlike other types of abdominoplasty, a belt lipectomy targets both the front and back of the body to provide a comprehensive transformation of the entire midsection (including the love handles and back). 

Who can benefit from a circumferential tummy tuck?

A circumferential tummy tuck may be the right procedure choice for individuals who: 

  • Are in good general health and have maintained a stable weight
  • Have significant excess skin and fat around the entire abdomen and lower back
  • Desire comprehensive contouring of the waistline and back
  • May have undergone massive weight loss, resulting in loose skin

Belt lipectomy procedure approach 

Plastic surgeons follow the following steps when performing a circumferential tummy tuck:

Step 1: Anesthesia is administered by a certified anesthesiologist 

Step 2: A circular incision is created around the waistline (extending to the lower back)

Step 3: Excess skin and fat are removed from both the front and back of the body

Step 4: Muscle is tightening if necessary

Step 5: The navel is repositioned for natural aesthetics

Step 6: Entire treatment area is bandaged 

Conclusion 

The right type of abdominoplasty for you will depend on your problem areas and/or aesthetic preferences. Dr. Luke Cusimano and his team at Cusimano Reconstructive & Plastic Surgery are uniquely positioned to provide the guidance you need to make the right procedure choice.