If you want a tummy tuck, you may have trouble deciding between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck. While both procedures are similar, they provide different results depending on your specific needs. Dr. Charles Chalekson can help you determine which tummy tuck procedure is right for you based on your goals.
A full tummy tuck uses an incision across the lower abdomen to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal region. In addition, Dr. Chalekson tightens the muscles overlying your abdomen and can also perform an umbilicoplasty, which can be used to change the shape of your belly button. This procedure is ideal for patients who have a significant amount of skin and fat around the belly.
The mini tummy tuck is a little bit different. Unlike a full abdominoplasty, this procedure uses a much shorter incision along the bottom of the abdominal wall. During the surgery, Dr. Chalekson removes stubborn fat below the belly button and only tightens the area below the navel. For this reason, the procedure is best suited for patients who have minimal excess skin and fat below the belly button.
In both procedures, incisions are necessary to excise any extra abdominal skin. However, Dr. Chalekson knows how to create scars that are discreet and narrow. He will hide the incision along a natural crease of the skin below the bikini line so that it is as subtle as possible.
When it comes to recovery, the process is mostly the same. The initial recovery period for a full or mini tummy tuck is usually two weeks. In addition, most patients will be able to return to their daily routine about six weeks after either procedure, with a complete recovery at three months. However, mini tummy tuck patients can often return to work earlier.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE TUMMY TUCK PROCEDURE?
If you are considering a full or mini tummy tuck and want to know more about the differences between the two procedures, contact Charles Chalekson MD Inc. to schedule an initial consultation. Dr. Chalekson will tailor your tummy tuck surgery to your specific needs and offer guidance on the different options available. We welcome patients living in Templeton, Paso Robles & Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, and throughout central California.
