Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

What statement about the partial abdominoplasty procedure is correct?

1. The recovery time is longer than a full abdominoplasty

2. The incision is much shorter

3. It involves complete removal of fat

4. It requires general anesthesia only

The correct answer is: The incision is much shorter

The assertion regarding the partial abdominoplasty procedure being most accurate is that the incision is much shorter. This is due to the nature of a partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini tummy tuck, which targets a specific area of the abdomen, typically the lower section. The procedure focuses on tightening and contouring this area while sparing other parts of the abdomen, thereby necessitating a shorter incision compared to a full abdominoplasty. In a full abdominoplasty, the incision extends from hip to hip and allows for broader access for the removal of excess skin and fat and for tightening the abdominal muscles across a larger area. Because of this extensive nature, the recovery time is usually longer than that associated with a partial abdominoplasty, and it often requires more anesthesia options beyond just general anesthesia. Thus, understanding the specific focus and extent of the procedure helps clarify why a shorter incision is characteristic of a partial abdominoplasty.