Mini abdominoplasty

The so-called mini abdominoplasty (also known as mini abdominoplasty or partial abdominoplasty) is a minor form of abdominoplasty. In contrast to a classic abdominoplasty, the procedure is limited to the removal of subcutaneous fatty tissue and excess skin in the area below the navel. It is therefore not necessary to tighten the abdominal muscles or reposition the belly button.

Patients whose excess fat and skin is limited to the lower abdomen are suitable candidates. This is usually only the case for people who are slightly overweight or have small, localized fat deposits in this area. Mini abdominoplasty is not suitable for people who are very overweight, as this would require additional liposuction. However, this can be combined with a classic abdominoplasty if required. You can find out whether mini abdominoplasty is suitable for you or whether a classic abdominoplasty is more suitable for you in a personal consultation with Dr. Lars Schumacher in Mannheim.

The scar that remains after a mini abdominoplasty is significantly smaller than that of a classic abdominoplasty. As the procedure is limited to the lower abdomen, the tension on the suture is significantly less, which speeds up the healing process. How visible the scar will be depends, among other things, on the tension on it. Depending on how tight the suture is, the tension can be smaller or greater. As a general rule, the tighter the suture, the wider the scar can become. As a specialist in scar-sparing procedures, Dr. Lars Schumacher ensures in his practice in Mannheim that the fine scar runs above the pubic bone and is no longer visible under underwear or swimwear.

Compared to a classic abdominoplasty, mini abdominoplasty is associated with fewer risks. Nevertheless, it is a surgical procedure (albeit a minor one) that is always associated with certain risks. In individual cases, post-operative bleeding or wound healing disorders can occur and infections can occur. However, these risks can be minimized if the procedure is carried out professionally and in compliance with the strictest hygiene guidelines.

Immediately after the procedure, slight redness, bruising or swelling may occur in the affected area, but these will subside on their own after a short time. The same applies to any feelings of tension or numbness that may occur.

The mini abdominoplasty has several advantages compared to classic abdominoplasty: The operation takes less time and is less risky. The physical strain on the patient is less and the downtime is shorter. Only a small corset needs to be worn during aftercare, which hardly restricts you in your everyday life. The scar is smaller and usually no longer visible under clothing. Due to the lower treatment costs, the mini abdominoplasty is also less expensive.

The results of a mini abdominoplasty are permanent - provided you maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid gaining too much weight.

After a mini abdominoplasty, most of Dr. Lars Schumacher's patients are fit for social life again the very next day and can resume their normal everyday activities. Nevertheless, you should follow the aftercare recommendations (girdle, scar care) and be sure to attend the check-ups at the practice in Mannheim.

In most cases, a mini abdominoplasty is not a medically necessary procedure but is performed for aesthetic reasons. For this reason, health insurance companies do not usually cover the costs of the procedure.

To support the healing process and the results of the operation, it is necessary to wear a compression girdle around the clock for about 6 weeks. You should only take this off when showering. Allow yourself some rest after the operation and avoid physically strenuous activities. You should avoid sport for the first 4-6 weeks, as well as direct sunlight on the operated area. UV rays could impair healing and lead to unsightly scarring.