Patrick Hudson MD, FACS

Indications: This operation is done to tighten the lower abdominal area and remove the fullness that often develops after pregnancy. It is used when there is localized fullness of the lower abdomen and a less extensive procedure than an abdominoplasty is needed. It is often combined with liposuction.This operation does not tighten the abdomen as much as a full abdominoplasty.

photographs of mini-adbominoplasty

Method: Most doctors remove an ellipse of skin from the lower abdomen and tighten the muscles beneath that area. Many surgeons do liposuction of the abdomen at the same time. The operation is done under either local anesthetic (you are awake) or general anesthetic (you are asleep). Most patients are happier asleep. Most of the time this is an outpatient operation and a stay in the hospital is not needed.

after surgery

Problems: All operations have some risk. The risks of surgery are divided into two groups. First those that are seen in all operations and second those that are unique or special for this operation. In the first group, the main risks are swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, a scar and numbness or change in feeling. The main problems which are special for this operation are the scar of the lower abdomen, irregularity from the liposuction and dissatisfaction because of unrealistic expectations. This operation does not tighten the abdomen like an abdominoplasty.

It is important to remember that no surgeon can give a guarantee about the final outcome, including appearance, shape, size and so on.  You should have a realistic attitude about the outcome, and remember that all surgery has good and bad aspects. That there is no such thing as ‘perfect surgery’. 

The satisfaction rate for cosmetic surgery is around 90%  and although a satisfactory outcome is anticipated this means that 10% of people do not achieve the result that either the patient or the surgeon would like.  

If things do not go well you may need revision or secondary surgery. Although many surgeons do not charge for this, there is often a charge for anesthesia and operating room costs.

Postoperative care: The recovery takes one to two weeks. Most people are back to work within a week or two.

For more information contact Dr. Hudson's office 505-242-0070. There are many different ways to do this operation and your best advice comes from a plastic surgeon.