Dr. Charlotte Ann Rhee is a Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in Huntington, Long Island NY that specializes in tummy tuck surgery, mommy makeovers and breast-relate
What Is A Mini Tummy Tuck?
Partial abdominoplasty, or “mini tummy tuck”, is similar to the regular tummy tuck procedure, except it involves a shorter incision and the skin is only lifted to the navel, which does not have to be moved.
What Are The Benefits Of A Mini Tummy Tuck?
It offers patients many benefits, including less scarring, shorter recovery times and an overall less invasive procedure. You can discuss the differences between these procedures, as well as weigh their benefits and risks with Dr. Rhee in order to decide which procedure is best for you.
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“Dr. Rhee is a professional all the way!! Outlines the procedure, answered all my questions. I was so happy to have this done. It was truly the best i’ve money spent!”
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Who Are The Ideal Candidates For A Partial Abdominoplasty?
The “mini” procedure is ideal for patients who need just a little improvement in order to reach their desired results, such as those within 10% of their ideal body weight.
How Is A Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure Performed?
The partial abdominoplasty procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the amount of fat and skin being removed, as well as the overall health and preference of the patient.
During the procedure, Dr. Rhee will create a small incision above the pubic area, instead of the hip-to-hip incision needed for a full abdominoplasty. This procedure also eliminates the need for an incision around the navel. The skin is lifted up to the navel to remove localized fat and tighten muscles in the lower abdominal area. Depending on the amount of fat removal needed, liposuction may be used for a less invasive removal. The navel does not have to be repositioned with this less invasive procedure.
The incisions are then closed with sutures, and small drains may be inserted to reduce the risk of fluid buildup in the area. The entire procedure usually takes one to two hours to perform, which is much shorter than a full abdominoplasty.
When Will I See Results From My Partial Abdominoplasty Procedure?
The mini tummy tuck inevitably causes some degree of swelling. However, patients can expect to notice a difference in the contour of their lower abdomen immediately after their procedure. Swelling diminishes significantly in the first several weeks of recovery. The minor amount of prolonged swelling is typically resolved by one year after surgery.
Are Mini Tummy Tucks Painful?
Mini tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia. If liposuction is involved in the procedure, a tumescent fluid that contains a local numbing solution may also be administered. Patients do not experience pain during their procedure. After the skin and muscles of the lower abdomen are tightened, patients may feel sore, tight, and tender for several days. Comfort can be maintained with rest, limited activity, and appropriate medication.
“Dr. Rhee is an amazing plastic surgeon as well as an amazing person. She made my experience so easy. I am so happy I did my surgery with her, she changed my life!”
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What Are The Risks Of Getting A Mini Tummy Tuck?
Surgical risks are inherent to procedures like the mini tummy tuck. However, Dr. Rhee takes precautions to minimize the risks of complications. Patients are also advised to follow post-operative instructions carefully to further decrease their risks of aesthetic and medical complications. Although uncommon, risks associated with plastic surgery include:
- Infection
- Excessive bleeding
- Prolonged tingling or numbness
- Prolonged or permanent changes to skin color
- Damage to blood vessels, nerves, or muscles
- Blood clots
What Is The Recovery From Partial Tummy Tuck Surgery?
During recovery, patients should be wearing compression garments in order to reduce swelling and bleeding. For those that want more than the average surgical bra can look to BodyFly. BodyFly is a line of body shaping activewear for patients that are recovering from breast or body surgical procedures. Dr. Rhee founded this company in 2016 to offer patients wardrobe options that incorporate compression benefits with fashion.
Does Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery Leave Scars?
Initially, incision scars look red or brown. As the skin heals, scars fade to pink or tan. In the year following the mini tummy tuck, scarring is expected to continually improve. Patients may also consider skin treatments to facilitate an optimal decrease in visible scarring. Sun protection is also an integral aspect of scar treatment.
How Long After A Mini Tummy Tuck Can I Start To Exercise Again?
The first two weeks of recovery from a mini tummy tuck is focused on managing comfort and symptoms such as swelling, tingling, or numbness. Patients can expect activity restrictions to last up to several weeks. Walking is acceptable and even encouraged during the first weeks of recovery. Exercise may resume gradually beginning about four weeks after the tummy tuck. By six weeks post-op, most patients can resume all levels of activity, including strenuous exercise. At that time, restrictions on lifting heavy objects may remain.
Additionally, BodyFly can benefit patients that have not had surgery or are recovered during their regular workouts. Our technology offers moisture-wicking fabric, excellent breathability, enhanced circulation and a reduction in soreness which leads to longer stamina while exercising. Let BodyFly enhance your workout while supporting your body. For more information visit here.
Schedule Your Mini-Tummy Tuck Consultation Today!
If you are interested in learning more about our Partial Abdominoplasty (Mini-Tummy Tuck) Procedure, call (631) 424-6707 today to schedule an appointment. Our practice serves Huntington Station, Long Island and all nearby areas in New York.