Hello. This is Woori Plastic Surgery.
Today, we would like to summarize the questions we hear most often during consultations for mini abdominoplasty regarding abdominoplasty scars. Let’s take a look together, slowly.
Abdominoplasty Scars
A full abdominoplasty incision extends to both hips, but a mini abdominoplasty has a much shorter incision range. Depending on the individual’s condition, the incision is often about half to two-thirds of the abdominal width. Mini abdominoplasty scars form in an area covered by underwear or a bikini line, so they are not very noticeable in daily life. However, abdominoplasty scars do not disappear completely; they gradually fade over time and become less noticeable.
Recovery Period
Usually, after about 3 to 5 days, simple daily activities such as walking or sitting are possible, which is one of the advantages. There is pain, but it is not a procedure that requires major strain, and it is not the kind of surgery that would typically require taking more than a week off.
Pregnancy Plans
If you are planning to become pregnant in the short term, within a year, it is better to postpone abdominoplasty. This is because if the abdomen stretches again before it stabilizes after surgery, it can affect the scar and the results. However, if childbirth is still several years away, having the surgery in advance is fine.
Side Effects
All lift surgeries that involve skin incision carry the possibility of seroma, where fluid collects under the skin. However, since mini abdominoplasty covers a smaller area, the risk of seroma is much lower than with a full abdominoplasty.
Whether Rectus Abdominis Muscle Repair Is Possible
With a mini abdominoplasty, only the lower abdominal rectus abdominis muscles can be corrected. If the separation extends above the navel, a full abdominoplasty is more appropriate, and we recommend deciding after consultation with a specialist.
Weight Changes
In most cases, it is performed together with liposuction, so weight may decrease accordingly. If only skin is removed, it is usually less than 300 to 400 g, so the change in body weight is not significant.
Precautions
Above all, scar care is the most important. You should consistently disinfect and care for the area according to the hospital’s instructions, and avoid strenuous exercise or upper-body stretching in the early stages so that the scar does not widen.
Mini abdominoplasty is a surgery that can effectively improve sagging in the lower abdomen, but it is important to make a decision only after fully understanding the incision, abdominoplasty scars, and the recovery process. The surgical scope and method vary depending on the individual’s condition, so after consulting with an experienced specialist, you need to choose the method most suitable for you.
