Whether you choose a mini or a full tummy tuck depends on the amount of excess skin and belly fat present, as well as what you hope to accomplish from the procedure. The mini tummy tuck differs from the full version in a number of ways, and being well-versed on these differences can help you determine if a mini tummy tuck with one of Seattle's best cosmetic surgeons, Dr. Javad Sajan, is in your best interest. With that said, here are the three distinct ways a mini tummy tuck differs from the full version of the procedure:
Incision
With a full tummy tuck, the incision runs from hip to hip and the belly button is removed and repositioned. With a mini tummy tuck, however, Dr. Sajan can make a significantly shorter cut, and the belly button does not have to be relocated.
Transformation
A mini tummy tuck exclusively fixes loose skin and muscles in the lower abdomen, while the full version can tighten excess skin and repair abdominal muscles throughout the entire stomach. As such, the mini procedure is best for patients who don't require the dramatic transformation the full tummy tuck can deliver.
Recovery
In general, a mini tummy tuck in Seattle involves a quicker surgery and recovery period because the procedure is less intensive. As such, most of Dr. Sajan's mini tummy tuck patients are back to work and their normal daily routines more quickly than those who underwent a full tummy tuck.
Because the mini tummy tuck involves a shorter incision, removing less excess volume and a quicker recovery period, it tends to be ideal for our patients in Seattle and surrounding areas who would like to tighten their abdominal area and achieve a more attractive body contour, but don't require a more comprehensive transformation. As such, most of Dr. Sajan's mini tummy tuck patients are healthy and active individuals who want to address a stubborn pouch of flab on a physique that's otherwise fit and toned.