For full tummy tucks, the most commonly performed type of abdominoplasty, Dr. Teotia will typically make a horizontal incision on the lower abdomen. This incision goes from one hip to the other and is placed inconspicuously below the bikini line.
She will tighten the underlying muscles to create a smoother, flatter abdominal appearance. If needed, liposuction can also further contour the hip rolls or flanks. Dr. Teotia will then re-position your skin and belly button to achieve the most aesthetically appealing and natural-looking result possible. She will complete the procedure by trimming away excess skin and closing your incisions.
For women who have previously had a cesarean section (C-section), the existing scar can often be utilized for the tummy tuck incision.
A mini tummy tuck can be ideal if you have only a small to moderate amount of excess abdominal skin, mostly below the belly button. The incision for a mini tummy tuck, while shorter in length, will also be concealed low on the abdomen below the bikini line. With a mini tummy tuck, the belly button is left in place, undisturbed, and an internal corset is created to flatten the abdomen.
It should be noted that this approach is not the right method for everyone. Patients exhibiting excess skin across the entire abdomen or who need muscle tightening above the belly button may have better results from a full tummy tuck. Dr. Teotia will help determine which approach is best suited to your goals and anatomy.