The term ‘‘tummy tuck’’ is often used to describe a wide range of procedures that all involve removing excess skin and fat around the midsection. However, many people don't know that there are actually different types of tummy tucks to suit a wide array of needs and body goals. People who suffer from a potbelly, spare tire, or beer belly are all prime candidates for this type of weight loss procedure. You will need to consult with your surgeon to determine which one is right for you.
Standard Tummy Tuck
The standard or full tummy tuck, addresses both the upper and lower abdomen and gives you a well-sculpted look from your waistline up to your ribcage. The incision for this type of stomach tuck usually goes from hip bone to hip bone, and a second incision at the belly button may be necessary.
Mini Tuck
The mini tuck was designed to treat the particularly difficult area just beneath the belly button. Many people struggle with a small pooch that gathers between the waistband and the belly button, which is particularly hard to tighten up with any exercise.
Extended Tuck
The extended stomach tuck goes from side to side. It is used to minimize fat deposits in the upper and lower abdomen as well as your flanks. It does not go all the way around like the circumferential body lift, but it goes deeper than a standard belly tuck.
Circumferential Body Lift
The circumferential body lift is done using the same basic technique as a standard abdomen tuck, but it is used to address a wider part of your body. Instead of stopping at the lower abdomen, this procedure wraps around the body to address the hips and lower back areas as well.
Other Tuck Types
You may also hear about different techniques such as an endoscopic tuck. This technique uses a small tube inserted beneath the skin to perform the ventral tuck. The end result is that scarring is minimized and the procedure is much less invasive. This also means there is less recovery time following the procedure. Ask your doctor if endoscopic tummy tucks are available in your area.
See also: How much do tummy tucks cost?
Depending on your body structure and your desired end result, you may choose any of these gut tuck types at Vanguard Plastic Surgery. First, contact us to set up your free consultation and we will discuss which areas you want to treat. Then we can explore options that are best suited to your lifestyle and get you back to your ideal body image.