Mini Tummy Tuck in Washington
Many people are all too familiar with the constant struggle for a more defined, toned waistline. This area is notoriously one of the most difficult to shape and sculpt through diet and exercise. Sometimes called a "muffin top," rolls of fat and loose skin are particularly troublesome for people who have undergone significant weight loss and for women after pregnancy.
Many patients seeking a tummy tuck in the Vancouver, Washington or Portland, Oregon area have protrusion and sagging that is limited to the lower portion of the abdomen. If this is the case, a mini tummy tuck may be the appropriate solution. This modification of the classic tummy tuck procedure can slim and tighten the lower abdomen through a more limited incision.
If you would like to learn more about the mini tummy tuck procedure, click here to request your complimentary consultation with Dr. Christopher Chung, a board-certified plastic surgeon, at his Vancouver, Washington area plastic surgery center.
What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini abdominoplasty - or mini tummy tuck - is an effective option for anyone whose lower abdomen displays poor muscle tone, along with excess skin and fat. It is often a part of a mommy makeover, since it can eliminate loose skin, fat, and stretch marks, and repair the separated muscles that many women experience after childbearing. The result is a firmer, slimmer waist and a flatter, more youthful looking abdomem.
Your Procedure
Dr. Chung performs the mini tummy tuck at a Vancouver, Washington area surgery center. It is an outpatient procedure performed with the patient under general anesthesia. The incision for a mini abdominoplasty - which can be shorter than the traditional abdominoplasty incision - runs horizontally along the lower pelvis, and is easily concealed beneath underwear or a bathing suit. In some cases, Dr. Chung can utilize an existing cesarian section scar for the incision.
Dr. Chung will remove excess, sagging skin and also address issues of muscle laxity by tightening the muscles that have been overstretched or separated. In 80 to 90% of mini tummy tucks, Dr. Chung uses liposuction to remove excess fat and create a pleasing contour to the midsection.
Recovery and Results
Recovery from a mini abdominoplasty is shorter and more comfortable than from traditional abdominoplasty, but still requires limitations on your activities for at least 7 days. You will be sent home wearing a compression garment, and will be encouraged to walk around to prevent the formation of blood clots. Dr. Chung will monitor your recovery closely, and will advise you as to when you may resume normal activities. Within 2 or 3 weeks, you should be able to start enjoying the results of your surgery and showing off your new, smaller tummy.
To minimize scarring and maximize surgical outcomes, Dr. Chung incorporates laser treatments at Flourish Skin & Laser as a part of your aftercare. Beginning approximately 6 weeks after surgery, you may undergo a series of spa treatments to improve both the color and texture of your scars.
To find out more about mini tummy tuck surgery, click here to request your complimentary consultation with Dr. Christopher Chung, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring procedures. Or you can call our plastic surgery center at (360) 430-8431 to schedule your appointment.

