Patients who want to improve their midsection without the extended downtime of a tummy tuck may be candidates for a mini tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure that provides some midsection correction with smaller incisions and a shorter recovery. This blog offers a comprehensive look at the mini tummy tuck, including the best candidates, what you can expect from the surgery, and your results.
3 Min Read:
Table of Contents
- What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
- Who Is a Good Mini Tummy Tuck Candidate?
- How Is a Mini Tummy Tuck Performed?
- Mini Tummy Recovery and Results
- Do I Need a Full or Mini Tummy Tuck?
What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) targets the lower abdomen below the belly button, removing stubborn fat and excess skin to create a smoother body contour. The surgery can also tighten the lower abdominal muscles, though it won’t tighten all the muscles that tend to separate with pregnancy or weight gain. The procedure is an excellent option for patients who have been unable to reduce the lower abdominal “pooch” with diet and exercise alone.
Who Is a Good Mini Tummy Tuck Candidate?
The best candidates for a mini tuck are those who have these key features:
- A Well-defined Upper Abdomen: A mini tummy tuck addresses only the lower abdomen, so patients with a sculpted upper abdomen tend to achieve the best results from this procedure.
- High Bell Button Appearance: The mini tuck doesn’t adjust the belly button’s position, aside from lowering it slightly as Dr. Boll removes excess skin.
- Small Amount of Excess Tissue: This procedure limits the amount of tissue that can be removed, so patients with less tissue and lax skin will achieve superior results.
- A Stable, Healthy Weight: Patients have achieved a good weight but are dissatisfied with isolated pockets of fat and loose skin in the lower abdomen.
Candidates should also be non-smokers or willing to stop smoking a few weeks before and after their surgery. Realistic expectations are also important, since the mini tummy tuck is limited in the amount of correction it can achieve.
How Is a Mini Tummy Tuck Performed?
Dr. Boll performs mini tummy tucks under general anesthesia, using a small incision across the lower abdomen that will be hidden inside the pantyline. Through the incision, Dr. Boll removes fat, tissue, and excess skin to create a smoother, firmer contour. She may add liposuction to the procedure to suction out pockets of fat and tighten the muscles in the localized surgical area. Patients generally return home the same day as their surgery.
Mini Tummy Recovery and Results
Patients tend to recover more quickly from a mini tuck than a traditional abdominoplasty. Most return to work and non-strenuous activities within two weeks, and may resume their exercise program within 4–6 weeks. Results are apparent once bruising and swelling subside, which takes approximately one month. Those results are long-lasting as long as patients maintain a healthy weight after surgery.
Do I Need a Full or Mini Tummy Tuck?
The majority of Dr. Boll’s patients see the best results with a traditional tummy tuck that fully tightens the rectus muscles, removes more skin and tissue, and repositions the belly button. The less common mini tummy tuck works best for patients who are thin or haven’t been pregnant. Dr. Boll will discuss your concerns and goals at your initial consultation to determine which procedure is best for you.
Ready to Learn More About Mini Tummy Tucks in Phoenix?
A mini tummy tuck in Phoenix offers permanent body contouring benefits for the right patient. Dr. Jennifer Boll is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who customizes her abdominoplasty procedures to each patient’s unique needs for the most natural, beautiful results.
To learn more about your tummy tuck options, call our office at (480) 833-5200 or complete our online contact form to schedule your consultation.