Searching for the best solution for removing fat and excess skin from your abdomen? You’re not alone—every year, thousands of people choose a surgical solution to help achieve their ideal body shape. But knowing which procedure is right for you can sometimes be confusing.
For most people, two options offer the best solution for removing excess skin from the abdomen: Sono Bello’s AbEX procedure or a traditional panniculectomy. However, key differences could impact a patient’s choice between the two.
Understanding the difference between AbEX and a panniculectomy can help patients better understand what goes into each procedure, and what to expect when making the decision.
In this guide, we review the aspects of Sono Bello mini tummy tuck, Sono Bello skin removal cost, What happens to loose skin after Sono Bello, and does Sono Bello work permanently?
Sono Bello Reviews
Why Choose Surgical Abdominal Contouring?
Abdominal contouring surgeries can be ideal for helping individuals looking to change the appearance of their midsection.
There are several reasons that anyone, even someone with otherwise normal body weight or proportions, may develop a protruding, loose, or sagging abdomen:
1. Significant increases or decreases in weight
2. The regular effect of aging
3. Body changes from pregnancy
4. Hereditary predisposition
5. Effects from prior surgery
For many people who experience significant weight changes over time (whether through natural causes or through liposuction), abdominal fat and excess skin can still pose problems and can be unpleasant for someone trying to achieve their ideal body shape.
This is why many people choose abdominal contouring—to tighten loose skin and achieve their desired abdominal look. However, the procedure they choose can have a big impact on the overall result.
AbEX vs. Panniculectomy: Understanding the Differences and Which Option is Best For You
AbEX procedure and a traditional panniculectomy both target the same area of the body—the abdomen—but that doesn’t mean they accomplish the same goal. In fact, there are key differences between each procedure.
The most immediate difference is that AbEX is specifically focused on contouring the abdomen through the application of micro-liposuction alongside excess skin removal. A panniculectomy, however, does not include contouring, and only focuses on removing excess skin around the abdomen.
What Is AbEX?
AbEX is an abdominal body contouring procedure that combines liposuction and skin resection, with a particular emphasis on the patient’s aesthetic endpoint.
The major focus is on providing the patient with their ideal flat, tight tummy in just one visit, without the use of general anesthetics.
There are two main components to the AbEX procedure:
Liposuction: for volume reduction. This is the process of removing fat from sections of the abdomen using minimally invasive, micro-laser liposuction. A Sono Bello board-certified/eligible surgeon performs this fat removal process.
Skin removal of the excess abdominal skin. This skin resection can be custom-tailored to the needs of the patient. Skin removal with the AbEX procedure can range from minimum (same amount as done in a “mini-tuck”) to maximum (same amount done in a traditional tummy tuck with repositioning of a new belly button).
The major benefit of the AbEX procedure is that it combines liposuction and skin resection and uses only localized anesthesia for maximum safety.
Because AbEX does not require general anesthesia or deeper sedation, patients experience fewer complications, less downtime, and a faster recovery process.
What Is a Panniculectomy?
While AbEX may combine both liposuction and skin resection into one procedure, a traditional panniculectomy is exclusively focused on removing only the excess skin. Typically, a panniculectomy is performed using a wedge resection and only addresses the abdominal skin itself.
A panniculectomy is often done for medical reasons. For example, if someone has intertrigo (skin infection/irritation from skin overhang), then panniculectomy can be done to remove the excess skin hang.
How Does Panniculectomy Differ from a Tummy Tuck?
If you’ve explored your options for abdominal contouring procedures, you may have seen another procedure called a “tummy tuck,” also known as abdominoplasty.
Though the terms are sometimes confused, there are some key differences:
A panniculectomy specifically focuses on removing sagging or excess skin on the abdomen after weight loss.
A tummy tuck takes this one step further by repairing loosened, stretched, or split abdominal muscles, and is usually more extensive than a panniculectomy.
What these two procedures have in common, however, is that neither includes liposuction of abdominal fat. That’s where AbEX can be a powerful better alternative to a tummy tuck or panniculectomy, in that it removes both abdominal fat and excess skin in one procedure.
AbEX vs. Panniculectomy: How Do They Compare?
Although both AbEX and a panniculectomy provide the removal of hanging skin and fat from the lower abdomen, the major difference between the two is that AbEX includes liposuction alongside excess skin removal on the abdomen, compared to panniculectomy being exclusively focused on resection of that excess skin.
The difference really comes down to the overall goal of each procedure. With panniculectomy, there is much less emphasis on the aesthetic endpoint, and instead, this procedure is a more ‘medically’ focused skin resection.
AbEX, on the other hand, places much more emphasis on the aesthetic endpoint, combining liposuction with skin resection to provide abdominal contouring custom-tailored to the patient’s desired look.
If a patient is specifically interested in both removing fat from the abdomen and removing excess skin, then the AbEX procedure may provide a more complete solution than a traditional panniculectomy.
Recovery Time & Process: AbEX vs. Panniculectomy
Because the AbEX procedure uses only localized anesthesia under gentle minimal sedation, recovery is often significantly shorter than with a traditional panniculectomy, (which usually requires the use of general anesthesia).
And, because (unlike a tummy tuck) the AbEX procedure does not include adjustments to stomach muscles, patients can expect a much faster recovery. Typically, AbEX patients return to normal activities in 5-7 days and resume full normal activities, including working out, in 2-4 weeks, compared to 4-6 weeks after a panniculectomy.
Who Is a Good Candidate for AbEX vs. Panniculectomy?
The ideal patient for an AbEX procedure may not be the ideal patient for a panniculectomy, and which procedure is right for a patient could come down to their specific circumstances and their goals for the procedure.
Generally, someone who is not interested in fat removal in addition to skin resection, or who does not have a specific aesthetic goal for their abdomen, may want to consider a panniculectomy. This is especially true for someone who has recently undergone massive fluctuations in weight, for whom excess skin is posing a medical problem.
Sono bello mini tummy tuck
A specific kind of stomach tuck operation performed by Sono Bello, a cosmetic surgery facility that specializes in body reshaping and face rejuvenation, is the Sono Bello small tummy tuck. In comparison to a complete tummy tuck, the micro tummy tuck is intended for those who have less skin and fat in the lower abdomen and need less substantial surgical intervention. What you should know about the Sono Bello small tummy tuck is as follows:
Overview of the procedure: The lower abdomen region is the target of the Sono Bello small tummy tuck. Compared to a regular tummy tuck, the treatment requires a smaller incision, often just above the pubic region. The surgeon will next rearrange the remaining tissues for a smoother, more contoured appearance after removing a little amount of extra skin and fat and, if required, tightening the abdominal muscles.
Benefits of a Little Stomach Tuck: The little stomach tuck may have the following possible advantages:
- Targeted Correction: The surgery targets the lower abdomen precisely, treating regional issues including sagging skin, a little pooch, or insignificant fat accumulation there.
- Less Scar: A tiny stomach tuck leaves a lesser scar than a complete tummy tuck since the incision is often made smaller.
- Quicker Recovery: A little stomach tuck may require less recovery time than a complete tummy tuck since the treatment is less involved.
- Minimal Muscle Restoration: The tiny tummy tuck often only necessitates minor muscle restoration, making it a less invasive procedure.
The tiny tummy tuck may not be the best treatment for you; therefore, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive consultation with a trained surgeon to find out. The degree of extra skin and fat, the state of the muscles, and the overall cosmetic objectives will all be taken into consideration. Your surgeon will evaluate your particular circumstances and suggest the best course of action.
Results and Recovery: To aid with the healing process and reduce swelling, the recovery period following a micro tummy tuck usually includes wearing a compression garment. Your surgeon will provide you with detailed postoperative care instructions, including recommendations for activity limitations, wound care, and follow-up consultations.
Results from a little tummy tuck might differ based on the patient’s personal circumstances and the precise technique employed. Although the lower abdomen area can noticeably improve after the surgery, it’s crucial to keep reasonable expectations in mind and recognize that the results might not be as dramatic as those obtained with a full tummy tuck.
sono bello skin removal cost
The price of skin removal at Sono Bello or any other facility for cosmetic surgery might change based on a number of variables. A trained surgeon will evaluate your unique requirements and goals during a consultation to estimate the precise cost of skin removal operations. The following variables might affect how much skin removal at Sono Bello will cost:
operation Type: The price will vary depending on the kind of skin removal operation you are thinking about. The complexity and expense of various operations, such as a stomach tuck, arm lift, thigh lift, or body lift, vary.
Treatment quantity: The total cost will depend on the quantity of extra skin and the locations being treated. In general, larger regions or more thorough skin removal will take longer and cost more during surgery.
Experience and credentials of the surgeon: Due to their knowledge and the high caliber of treatment they offer, highly skilled and respected surgeons may charge more.
Location: The pricing may vary depending on where the Sono Bello clinic is located. The cost of living in different regions and the demand for cosmetic operations locally might affect prices.
Additional Charges: The overall amount may also include charges for anesthesia, the use of the facility, post-op clothing, and follow-up appointments. During your appointment, be sure to bring up these prospective expenses.
The price of skin removal at Sono Bello is unique to each patient’s particular situation; thus, a consultation is required to get a precise estimate. The surgeon will assess your issues, go over your ideal result, and offer a personalized treatment plan with associated costs during the appointment.
Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon who prioritizes patient safety and provides exceptional outcomes should be your main emphasis, even though cost is a crucial factor. Before choosing a clinic, it is advised to compare many options, read patient reviews, and confirm that it complies with all relevant certification and safety requirements.
Ask about financing options, if any, during your appointment at Sono Bello or any other facility for cosmetic surgery. This can help you budget for the treatment over time.
What happens to loose skin after Sono Bello
The extra or loose skin is surgically removed during skin removal operations at Sono Bello or any reputed cosmetic surgery facility in order to provide a more toned and sculpted look. The precise approach used will rely on the problem areas and your own objectives. Following skin removal operations, loose skin normally goes through the following processes:
Evaluation and Planning: A trained surgeon will evaluate your particular issues at your initial appointment and choose the best procedure(s) to address your loose skin. Depending on the problem regions, this can entail treatments like a belly tuck, arm lift, thigh lift, or body lift.
Surgery: Excess skin is carefully and accurately removed throughout the surgery. In order to reduce apparent scarring, the surgeon will make incisions in carefully chosen sites, frequently in natural skin creases or inconspicuous places. If required, the underlying tissues can also be tightened to improve the overall form.
Closing the wounds: The surgeon will precisely close the incisions using sutures or other closure techniques after removing the surplus skin. This phase is essential for reducing scarring and promoting optimum recovery. Additionally, the surgeon may put in drains to catch any extra blood or fluid that may develop after surgery.
Healing and Recuperation: You will receive detailed postoperative instructions to promote your recovery after the treatment. This usually entails using compression clothing, using prescription drugs, and leading a healthy lifestyle that incorporates appropriate eating and exercise. In order to promote adequate healing and track your progress, it’s crucial to show up to all of your planned follow-up meetings with your surgeon.
The incision scars will progressively diminish and flatten as they mature and heal. Variables, including genetics, a person’s capacity for healing, and compliance with your surgeon’s scar care guidelines, can all affect how the scars look. Follow your surgeon’s instructions for scar care, such as using scar creams or gels, and avoid overexposing the incision sites to the sun.
It’s vital to remember that individual characteristics, such as skin elasticity, general health, and attention to postoperative care recommendations, might affect how well skin removal techniques work. While the purpose of the procedure is to remove excess skin, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and a well-balanced diet, to help preserve the benefits and stop skin laxity in the future.
The surgeon at Sono Bello will go through the anticipated results, potential dangers, and any special concerns depending on your particular circumstances during your appointment. Your worries will be addressed, and they will give you reasonable expectations for your postoperative outcomes as they lead you through the procedure.
Does Sono Bello work permanently
Although Sono Bello techniques can provide long-lasting effects, it’s vital to realize that they are not long-term fixes. A number of factors, including character traits, way of life, and naturally occurring aging, affect the results’ persistence. Consider the following important factors while evaluating the Sono Bello treatments’ durability:
Tissue Reshaping: Through the removal of extra fat and/or loose skin, Sono Bello treatments, including liposuction, body contouring, and skin removal surgeries, are intended to reshape and sculpt the body.These procedures can significantly enhance the shape and appearance of the body..
Individual Variables: Everybody’s body reacts to cosmetic operations differently. Age, skin elasticity, heredity, and general health are some of the variables that might affect the outcome and how long the effects will remain.
Maintenance: Sono Bello treatments can reduce body fat and contour the body, but they cannot stop future weight growth or slow down the aging process of the skin. To help keep the benefits and stop new fat deposits from accumulating, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Everyone experiences the effects of the natural aging process, regardless of whether they have had cosmetic operations. The natural loss of elasticity and firmness that occurs in your skin as you age may have an impact on the longevity of results from Sono Bello therapies.
festyle Decisions: Keeping a constant weight, avoiding substantial weight swings, and adopting proper skincare practices are all lifestyle decisions that may help ensure the long-term effectiveness of Sono Bello operations.
Ongoing Care: Your surgeon can monitor your development and handle any issues that may surface with regular follow-up appointments and adherence to their postoperative care guidelines. If more treatments or procedures are required, they can give those as well as advice on how to preserve the benefits.
Although Sono Bello techniques can produce long-lasting improvements, it’s crucial to have reasonable expectations and recognize that everyone’s experiences will be different. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, according to your surgeon’s advice, and consulting with them frequently to discuss any problems or changes you may feel are the best ways to guarantee the durability of the results.
The surgeon at Sono Bello will go into great detail during your appointment regarding the treatment you’re thinking about, including the projected duration of the results based on their experience and your unique situation. They will assist you in creating a unique treatment plan and will lead you through the decision-making process.