Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A Tummy Tuck, medically referred to as Abdominoplasty, is performed on patients to improve the contour and shape of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat. The procedure reduces excess abdomen fat tightening the muscles, erases stretch marks and creates a beautiful belly button. Dr. Hankins has consulted many patients on tummy tucks whom are seeking a flatter belly due to pregnancy, losing significant amounts of weight or the aging process. Patients desire a better mid-section appearance knowing that exercise and dieting sometimes doesn’t do the trick.

Dr. Hankins discusses with each patient the variety of tummy contouring procedures available. Choosing the right procedure for the individual’s body shape is critical in getting the desired, most beautiful end results.

The different types of tummy tuck procedures include:

Mini

If a patient has minimal excess skin in the abdominal area, Dr. Hankins will recommend a mini tummy tuck. This type is used to eliminate fat below the belly button tightening those muscle with a small, c-section type incision. Recovery with a mini tummy tuck is minimal.

Full

A full tummy tuck is a popular procedure, with results being pretty dramatic for patients, performed by Dr. Hankins. The difference between the full and mini tummy tuck is the amount of extra skin and fat removed from the abdomen increases creating a flatter end result.  The incision is different and, it is made hip to hip, but is hidden below the bikini or pantyline.

Extended

The extended tummy tuck is similar to a full but with a longer incision. Liposuction is added to the procedure to better remove  “love handles” for patients.

Circumferential or Lower Body Lift

For excessive fat that needs to be removed or for patients that have undergone extensive weight loss, lap band surgery or gastric bypass, circumferential tummy tuck would be performed by Dr. Hankins.  Patients with extra skin and fat tissue that needs to be removed from not only the abdomen but the thighs, hips and buttocks, will be highly pleased with this choice.  Recovery is a bit more intensive, with Dr. Hankins recommending an overnight stay at an aftercare facility, where trained nursing staff is able to care for the patient after surgery. Patients are amazed by this powerful procedure.