Stockton Mini Tummy Tuck Surgeon – Dr. Silverton
Serving Modesto, Lodi, Tracy, Elk Grove
Many people who want to tighten and tone the abdomen hesitate to commit to a procedure like abdominoplasty. They may be worried about recovery time, scarring, the cost of the procedure, or another factor. For many others, the full tummy tuck procedure is a more thorough treatment than they need. Still others are simply not good candidates for conventional abdominoplasty. To address the specific needs of these patients, Dr. John Silverton, a recognized Stockton / Modesto plastic surgeon, offers mini-abdominoplasty, also known as mini-tummy tuck. Dr. Silverton's approach to this minimally invasive procedure can produce exceptional results.
Dr. Silverton's video showing the mini abdominoplasty on YouTube.
The Mini-Tummy Tuck Procedure
Mini-tummy tucks are typically performed under general anesthesia. To perform a mini-tummy tuck, Dr. Silverton performs extensive liposuction as required to re-shape the abdomen. Dr. Silverton then removes excess lower abdominal skin through a transverse lower abdominal incision, which is typically shorter than the incision used for a full abdominoplasty. Finally, he closes the incision with sutures for healing. This procedure can produce dramatic results without requiring surgical drains or a pain pump. Recovery is quicker and risks are less than the full abdominoplasty.
It is important for our patients to understand the differences between mini-abdominoplasty and full tummy tuck. In the less invasive mini-abdominoplasty procedure, the abdominal muscles are not tightened. Further, because the navel is not repositioned, the benefit of mini-tummy tuck for the upper abdomen is limited. For these reasons, the procedure may not be optimal for certain patients. Dr. Silverton consults with each patient at our practice to identify which procedure will best meet their unique needs.
Mini-Abdominoplasty Recovery
Because mini-abdominoplasty is significantly less invasive than a full tummy tuck, patients enjoy a much shorter recovery period with less discomfort. Patients are typically released from our surgical suite within a few hours of surgery so that they can go home to rest and recover. Any post-operative discomfort in the days following surgery can be controlled with pain medication. Most patients are able to return to work within two weeks. Activities, including heavy lifting and strenuous exercise, should be avoided for a few weeks. However, walking and other light exercise should be resumed as soon as possible after surgery to help speed the recovery process and minimize complications.
Mini-Tummy Tuck Benefits
The benefits associated with mini-abdominoplasty are significant. Perhaps most importantly, the procedure is significantly less invasive than a full tummy tuck. This makes the procedure an excellent option for patients who cannot take a lengthy break from work and other activities. The mini-tummy tuck procedure also results in significantly less scarring than a full abdominoplasty. There is no scar around the belly button and no drain scars. The incision is shorter and the scar is usually better.
Additionally, the procedure is open to a wider range of patients. This surgery is also safe for patients who may not be candidates for full abdominoplasty due to pre-existing scarring from a previous procedure, such as a gall bladder removal. Visit our gallery to see pictures of the results achieved for mini-abdominoplasty patients at our practice.
Contact our Stockton Plastic Surgery Practice for a Mini Tummy Tuck Consultation
The best way to explore your options for cosmetic surgery is to sit down with Dr. Silverton at our Stockton practice, serving Modesto and Tracy, to discuss full abdominoplasty and mini-tummy tuck. Dr. Silverton can help you choose the procedure that best meets your needs and find a way to make the procedure as affordable as possible. Contact our practice today to learn more.
John Silverton MD, FRCS
3031 West March Ln., Suite 101 South
Stockton, CA 95219
tel: (209) 952-2251