A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is done to remove excess skin and fat and also tighten the abdomen muscles. Things such as pregnancy and weight loss can cause abdomen muscles to weaken or separate and this is not something that can be solved with just a healthy diet and exercise. A tummy tuck, however, can give you a smoother and firmer abdomen profile.
There are two different types of tummy tucks — a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck, but which one is right for you? We at Arkansas Plastic Surgery are here to explain them and help you achieve your desired results!
A full tummy tuck requires an incision from hip bone to hip bone and rejuvenates the entire abdomen by removing excess skin and fat, as well as tightening muscles above and below the belly button (from the pubic bone to the sternum).
A mini tummy tuck requires a shorter incision and removes skin and fat only below the belly button. While you will typically experience less pain after a mini tummy tuck, it has limited results since it only targets the lower abdomen muscles.
Tummy Tuck Recovery Time
As with any major surgery, recovery time is expected. The time it takes to recover is one of the main differences between these tummy tuck procedures. A mini tummy tuck will typically have a shorter recovery than a full tummy tuck because it is a smaller incision.
Full Tummy Tuck:
- If your job is more labor-intensive, you may want to take about 2 weeks off of work.
- You can resume light activity within a few days but more normal activity and exercise may take about 6 weeks.
Mini Tummy Tuck:
- You may want to take 1 week off of labor-intensive work.
- You can resume light activity within a few days and can expect to return to normal activity and exercise at about 4 weeks.
Keep in mind that each patient heals at a different pace, so tummy tuck recovery times may vary. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions, such as wearing your girdle or binder that helps keep skin pressed to minimize swelling and bruising during your recovery.
Tummy Tuck Surgery Little Rock
Dr. David Bauer and Dr. Zachary Young have the experience you want in your tummy tuck plastic surgeon! Let us help you achieve the results you’re looking for — contact Arkansas Plastic Surgery today to discuss your tummy tuck options.
