Tummy tucks are a common cosmetic procedure undertaken by people of all ages. While a traditional tummy tuck can do wonders for your body, it leaves a large and unwanted scar behind. At Hughes Plastic Surgery, we offer a better option: the short-scar tummy tuck.
A short-scar tummy tuck was developed to enhance a patient’s abdomen and get rid of excess fat and skin in a way that created more attractive results. The shorter scar it leaves is the same length as that of the mini tummy tuck, another tummy tuck method that has its own pros and cons.
While the mini tummy tuck is less invasive, it also isn’t as comprehensive as the full tummy tuck. A short-scar tummy tuck, however, offers double the amount of loose skin and fat removal that a mini offers.
The short scar tummy tuck can be done as a part of mommy makeover surgery.
Who Is Right for the Short-Scar Tummy Tuck?
A short-scar tummy tuck is right for patients who have loose skin, residual fat, and drooping muscle tissue in the abdominal area. It’s an excellent choice for those patients who are excited by the idea of attaining the results of a full tummy tuck but do not want a long curving abdominal scar after the procedure.
Ideal patients have to be in general good health and somewhere close to their ideal body weight. A healthy lifestyle is a must, both before and after the procedure. To make sure that the results of the procedure last, many doctors ask that patients maintain a steady body weight for six months prior to the procedure and maintain their weight after the procedure.
Women who want to get pregnant in the future should not come in for a short-scar tummy tuck, as pregnancy can disrupt the procedure’s results. Smoking and certain medications are to be avoided in the weeks leading up to the procedure, based on the doctor’s directions.
Short-Scar Tummy Tuck
During the procedure, the patient is sedated using general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a single short horizontal incision very low on the abdomen, so that it can be easily concealed by swimsuits and other clothing.
Once the incision is made, excess fat and drooping skin are removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened to enhance the patient’s body. Liposuction might be combined with this procedure, if required. A new and more proportional bellybutton is also created. After the procedure is complete, the surgeon uses sutures to close the short incision.
The Healing Process
Medication and post-surgery care will be addressed by the doctor during your consultation, and it will be important to follow his instructions carefully.
The recovery period for a short-scar tummy tuck is shorter than that of a traditional tummy tuck. Generally, patients require only one or two weeks to recovering and return to work. Patients are advised not to perform strenuous exercises for four to six weeks after the surgery.
Your Results
Most patients are very happy with the procedure, as it leaves behind a smaller scar that is not close to the belly button. Moreover, they have a flatter and tighter abdomen that is bound to improve their body image. Residual skin in the area is also removed, meaning that patients have a better figure.
A Consultation at Our Office
If you feel that the short-scar tummy tuck might be right for you, contact our office and schedule your consultation. Dr. Kenneth Hughes, a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon, will be available to answer your questions and help you achieve your aesthetic goals.