Traditional Tummy Tuck
Formal Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is done when there is too much loose skin and the tummy muscles are too separated and too loose from pregnancy or weight gain. The skin below the belly button is excised (gone with the stretch marks), and the rectus muscles are tightened in the midline, returning to their pre-pregnancy state. Dr. Yu would also repair and tighten the external oblique muscles in the lower half of the tummy.
These, when combined with strategically done liposuction, using our low-trauma MicroAire power-assisted liposuction device, could generate a new tummy with great looking “corset lines” and “groin lines” (Apollo’s Belt, Adonis Belt, iliac furrow, inguinal crease, or “V” lines). As far as the belly button, it will either be made with the old one (if still looking good) or created anew.
Mini-Tummy Tuck
Mini-tummy tuck is carried out in the lower abdomen, just above the pubis. By removing one to three inches of skin and tightening the underlying abdominal muscles (fascia), the lower tummy is much flatter and firmer. People with a bothering lower tummy “pooch” and lots of stretch marks should seriously consider this procedure.
Minimally Invasive Tummy Tuck
For select patients with good skin quality and minimal skin laxity, Dr. Yu also offers a Minimally Invasive Tummy Tuck. This technique uses an incision of approximately 3 inches, typically hidden low along the bikini line. Rather than removing large amounts of skin, the procedure focuses on tightening the abdominal wall through muscle hitching, reinforcing the underlying muscles to create a flatter, firmer abdomen while minimizing surgical trauma.
Because little to no skin is removed, this option is best suited for patients whose primary concern is weakened or separated abdominal muscles rather than significant excess skin. During your consultation, Dr. Yu will evaluate your anatomy and determine whether a minimally invasive tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck, or a traditional abdominoplasty is the most appropriate approach for your goals.