Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) - Tulsa Oklahoma

What is a Mini-Abdominoplasty?

The mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, is often an excellent option for people who have a small amount of abdominal skin to be removed and do not have a significantly protruding abdominal muscle wall. Individuals whose abdominal area is beginning to sag due to aging or who have slim abdomens that they wish to sculpt into a more desirable shape may find that a mini tummy tuck in Tulsa is ideal for them. View tummy tuck before and after photos.

What Can I do to prepare for the surgery?

You may be asked to stop taking certain medications including aspirin and certain types of medications that may thin your blood. Tulsa plastic surgeon, Dr.Mitchell recommends that prospective patients stop smoking for the month before and the month after the procedure. Smoking will delay the healing process of the incision and cause skin necrosis (loss of the skin).

What can I expect during the surgery?

Mini tummy tuck surgery may be performed under general anesthesia, but is usually completed with a local anesthetic and mild sedation. The length of the incision involved in a mini tummy tuck will depend on the amount of skin to be removed, but will generally be smaller than the incision required by a traditional tummy tuck. This is why mini tummy tuck surgery is also sometimes known as a "scarless tummy tuck." Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, the surgeon usually does not have to reposition the navel during mini abdominoplasty. If necessary, liposuction may also be performed to help sculpt the tummy into the desired shape.

Just as mini tummy tuck surgery involves a smaller incision than its traditional counterpart, it also requires that a smaller section of the abdominal wall be exposed; usually, the treatment area extends from the point of incision to the navel. After excess fat has been removed and the abdominal muscles have been tightened, the surgeon will stretch the skin downward, cutting away any excess tissue and stitching the remaining skin into place. The surgeon may place a temporary drainage tube in the incision site.

What should I expect after the surgery?

The patient is usually released from the hospital within a few hours of mini tummy tuck surgery. The recovery time is about the same as that for liposuction. Most patients experience some postoperative pain, but it can be controlled with over-the-counter medication. Patients are usually able to return to work within a few days of getting a mini abdominoplasty but should refrain from strenuous activities for a few weeks. You will have several follow-up office visits with Dr.Mitchell to ensure that you have the best recovery possible!

For more information about having a tummy tuck in Tulsa Oklahoma - contact Dr. Robert Mitchell.