Mini Tummy Tuck

Mini tummy tuck surgery is less invasive than traditional abdominoplasty. Find out if you are a good candidate for mini abdominoplasty, as well as information about the procedure and recovery period.

Mini Tummy Tuck Candidates

The mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, is often an excellent option for people who have a small amount of abdominal skin to be removed and do not have a significantly protruding abdominal muscle wall. Individuals whose abdominal area is beginning to sag due to aging or who have slim abdomens that they wish to sculpt into a more desirable shape may find that a mini tummy tuck is ideal for them.

Mini (Also Known as Scarless) Tummy Tuck Surgery

Mini tummy tuck surgery may be performed under general anesthesia, but is usually completed with a local anesthetic and mild sedation. The length of the incision involved in a mini tummy tuck will depend on the amount of skin to be removed, but will generally be smaller than the incision required by a traditional tummy tuck. This is why mini tummy tuck surgery is also sometimes known as a " scarless tummy tuck." Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, the surgeon usually does not have to reposition the navel during mini abdominoplasty. If necessary, liposuction may also be performed to help sculpt the tummy into the desired shape.
Just as mini tummy tuck surgery involves a smaller incision than its traditional counterpart, it also requires that a smaller section of the abdominal wall be exposed; usually, the treatment area extends from the point of incision to the navel. After excess fat has been removed and the abdominal muscles have been tightened, the surgeon will stretch the skin downward, cutting away any excess tissue and stitching the remaining skin into place. The surgeon may place a temporary drainage tube in the incision site.

Mini Tummy Tuck Recovery

The patient is usually released from the hospital within a few hours of mini tummy tuck surgery. The recovery time is about the same as that for liposuction. Most patients experience some postoperative pain, but it can be controlled with over-the-counter medication. Patients are usually able to return to work within a few days of getting a mini abdominoplasty but should refrain from strenuous activities for a few weeks.

Length

About 1 to 2 hours.

Side Effects

Temporary swelling, discomfort, and numbness.

Recovery

Mini-tummy tuck patients will need to wear a compression garment during the healing period, which may last about two to three weeks after surgery. This procedure has a shorter recovery time than the full tummy tuck; sutures should be removed in a few weeks. Return to work: 1 to 3 weeks. Return to light activity: within 2-3 days. Avoid strenuous activity: about 1 month.

Risks

Rare possibility of infection and blood clots

Results

Long-lasting; weight fluctuation or pregnancy may affect results.

Technology

During mini-abdominoplasty, your surgeon will make a small incision directly above the pubic region. He or she will cut away loose skin and may perform liposuction in conjunction to remove excess fat. As compared to a full tummy tuck, the belly button should not have to be repositioned. The incisions are closed with small sutures and small drains are usually inserted to eliminate fluid buildup. Elastic bandages are then applied to the area and secured.