What Is the Difference Between A Tummy Tuck and Abdominoplasty?

When considering having surgery to improve the appearance of your abdomen, people might wonder about the difference between a tummy tuck and an abdominoplasty.

There is no difference between a tummy tuck surgery and an abdominoplasty. These two terms are often used interchangeably. The medical term for the procedure is abdominoplasty, but the general public more commonly uses the term tummy tuck.

What is Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure to improve the shape and appearance of the abdomen. During a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen, and the abdominal muscles are tightened, resulting in a flatter, firmer abdomen with a more contoured waistline.

People who have excess skin and fat on the abdomen that does not respond to diet or exercise due to weight loss, pregnancy, ageing or previous surgery consider abdominoplasty surgery.

Types of Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty

Based on the amount of fat removal, tummy tuck is divided into two categories:

Full Tummy Tuck: This is the most common type of tummy tuck that focuses on reshaping the lower abdomen. During a full tummy tuck, a horizontal incision is made above the pubic area, from hip to hip. The skin and fat are lifted off the abdominal wall, and the abdominal muscles are tightened. The excess skin and fat are then removed, and the skin is repositioned and sutured closed.

Mini Tummy Tuck: A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure in which the best plastic surgeon in India makes an incision below the bikini line so the incision is invisible. The surgeon then removes excess skin and fat and tightens the abdominal muscles. The belly button is not repositioned.

Who is The Suitable Candidate for a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

The following are the parameters that determine your candidacy for a tummy tuck procedure:

You Are Close to Your Ideal Weight: While a tummy tuck can effectively remove excess skin and tighten abdominal muscles, it is not a weight loss solution. Therefore, it is recommended to be within 10-15 pounds of your ideal weight before undergoing this procedure. This approach maximizes the desired outcome while minimizing potential complications.

You Have Excess Fat in Your Abdominal Area: An abdominoplasty surgery is particularly suitable for individuals with excess skin and fat in the abdominal area due to pregnancy or significant weight loss. If you have loose, sagging skin or stubborn pockets of fat that persist despite diet and exercise, a tummy tuck may be a beneficial option.

You Are in Overall Good Health:  You should be in good overall health and free from any medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications. Your doctor will review your medical history to make sure you are a good candidate for surgery.
You Have Completed Childbearing: If you are planning to have more children, it is best to wait until you have finished having children before having a tummy tuck surgery. Pregnancy can stretch the abdominal muscles and make the results of a tummy tuck less effective.