Which Approach Is Right For You?
There are a variety of ways a tummy tuck can be performed. For this reason, selecting an experienced aesthetic plastic surgeon like Dr. Bass is vital. Dr. Bass will carefully evaluate your body and listen to your needs and goals to determine which method is the safest and most effective for you. The most common abdominoplasty methods are listed below.
Full Abdominoplasty
This method addresses the entire abdomen and requires a hip-to-hip and umbilical incision. The entire abdominal area undergoes liposuction and excess skin and fat below the level of the umbilicus is removed, and abdominal muscles are tightened.
Endoscopic Abdominoplasty
a minimally invasive approach that uses an endoscope (long fiberoptic tube with a small light and camera) to tighten weak abdominal muscles. Liposuction can be performed if needed but this method does not remove excess skin.
Mini-Abdominoplasty
appropriate for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity centered in the lower abdomen. This tummy tuck has a short incision and is designed for the area below the belly button. Typically a good choice for younger patients or those who are relatively thin but wish to eliminate their lower belly ‘pooch.’ Liposuction and muscle tightening can be performed as part of the procedure.
Extended Abdominoplasty
This procedure encompasses all that the traditional tummy tuck does and includes the hips and lower back. Patients who have experienced dramatic weight loss are well suited for the extended tummy tuck. The incision extends from the lower belly around to the sides of the body. When the incision is extended circumferentially, this is known as a body lift.
Fleur-De-Lis Abdominoplasty
This is the most extensive tummy tuck available, and best for those who require significant skin removal after undergoing bariatric surgery. The incision spans hip-to-hip and from the belly button down, in the shape of an upside ‘T’ or fleur-de-lis.