Mini Tummy Tuck in Chicago, IL
To maintain a healthy weight, many of us eat well and exercise regularly. But when it comes to toning and flattening the midsection, we may be endlessly frustrated, finding the abdominals to be resistant to every effort. Even though we may train hard and monitor our caloric intake, many of us cannot tighten loose, rolling skin or eliminate those excess fat deposits. For those who have been unable to shape up the abdominal area, a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty may be an option.
Separated Abdominal Muscles
Beneath the skin, there is a layer of muscle that gives the abdomen its definition. If these muscles become stretched and separated, it creates a bulge. Even if there is very little fat in the midsection, the abdominals can appear unshapely because the muscles below are not taut. Different factors can contribute to weakened muscles and sagging excess skin in the abdomen, the most common being pregnancy, significant changes in weight, and aging. Unfortunately, when the muscles have become disconnected, they can be strengthened, it is impossible to recover the original shape. In this case, surgery is the only way to correct and repair the muscles.
Partial Abdominoplasty
Tummy tucks are surgical procedures that can eliminate fat and tighten underlying muscles that have been separated. Generally, a complete tummy tuck procedure requires two incisions: one horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and navel and a second incision around the navel. The length of the incisions depends on the amount of tissue to be removed. However, if the problem area is concentrated below the navel, a mini-tummy tuck, also known as a mini-abdominoplasty or partial abdominoplasty, can be performed. In this case, only one short horizontal incision just above pelvic line in necessary (for women, similar to a C-section incision). Once the incision is made, the muscles are tightened and pulled together. After the muscles have been repositioned, incisions are closed with sutures and bandages and compression garments are applied to the treatment area. The result will be a slimmer, more contoured abdomen. The procedure takes about 2-5 hours, with an estimated 2 week recovery time.
The mini tummy tuck is best for those who:
- Have less localized fat or sagging skin in mid-abdomen
- Want to tightened the abdominal area below the navel
- Are generally healthy, have a stable weight, and have plateaued with exercise
- Have had a pregnancy or pregnancies and is not considering another
- Has lost a significant amount of weight
The procedure is not recommended for those who fluctuate in weight and it is not a weight loss solution. A mini tummy tuck can give long-lasting results, provided the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. John A. Kotis, an Illinois board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in the Chicago area, performs the mini tummy tuck in Arlington Heights, IL. If you would like to discuss whether you are a good candidate for the mini tummy tuck surgery, contact us at (847) 577-6400for a comprehensive consultation.