Key Takeaways
- A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, ideal for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity.
- The procedure involves a smaller incision along the bikini line, making scars less visible compared to a full tummy tuck, which has a longer incision.
- Good candidates for a mini tummy tuck are typically at their target weight and primarily concerned with the area below the belly button, including those who want to address changes from pregnancy or previous surgeries.
- Recovery time for a mini tummy tuck is shorter than for a traditional tummy tuck, with most patients returning to normal activities within 2-3 weeks.
- Consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon, like Dr. Doyle, is critical to determine if a mini tummy tuck is the right procedure for individual goals and needs.
A mini tummy tuck, also known as a mini abdominoplasty, is a popular plastic surgery procedure. It addresses problems associated with excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. This type is best for patients who have mild to moderate skin laxity. And/or patients that have minimal amounts of abdominal fat that they would like removed. It is less invasive than a traditional abdominoplasty.
Dr Doyle is a one of the best plastic surgeons in QLD with over 30 years of experience. He is an expert at all types of tummy tuck surgery including the popular mini tummy tuck.
What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
This is a cosmetic surgery procedure that treats the loose skin and fat underneath the navel. It’s able to remove loose skin and a belly ‘pooch’ that is resistant to diet and exercise.
How Does It Differ from a Full Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck involves a smaller incision along the bikini line. This usually measures 20 centimetres or less in length. In comparison, a standard tummy tuck incision stretches from hip bone to hip bone.
Unlike a standard abdominoplasty, a mini tummy tuck does not address torn or split abdominal muscles (diastasis recti). If this is your main concern, a standard abdominoplasty may be more suitable.
A tummy tuck can also remove some stretch marks. Yet, this depends on the location of the stretch marks on your body. It also depends on the amount of extra skin you have which will determine whether they will be erased. If you have stretch marks under the navel, it’s likely that a mini tuck will improve their appearance.
Who Is the Right Candidate?
A good candidate for a mini tummy tuck is someone who wants to correct a minor belly “pooch” or amend a prior caesarian section scar. Mini-abdominoplasty addresses changes caused by pregnancy and fluctuating hormones in women. Yet, this procedure is suitable for men too who have similar concerns.
The ideal candidate for a mini tummy tuck is mainly concerned with the skin under their belly button. As well, they have good upper abdominal skin and muscle tone, are thin and fit, and are at their target weight. It’s important to be close to your goal weight for surgery, as weight loss can impact the results of surgery.
If you are considering a mini tummy tuck, it’s important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon. Dr Doyle has years of experience and expertise in the field. He will be able to assess your unique situation and recommend the most appropriate procedure for your goals and needs. So, whether you want to remove excess skin from pregnancy or belly fat, a consultation is a great place to start.
Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery – The Procedure
This procedure is less invasive than a traditional tummy tuck. As such, the incisions, recovery time and cost are less. A general anesthetic is used and surgery takes between 2-3 hours to complete.
Incisions
Incisions for a mini tummy tuck are shorter, and as such, the scars are also less visible than those of a full tummy tuck. The incision is low on the abdomen, above the pubic mound. This allows the surgeon to access the underlying connective tissue and fat. Then, Dr Doyle will tighten the tissues, remove any excess skin and close the incision.
Recovery
The recovery time for a mini tummy tuck is shorter than that of a traditional tummy tuck. This is because the incisions are shorter and your surgeon is removing less tissue. Most patients can return to their normal activities within 2-3 weeks. Although, you should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 6 weeks.
Cost
The cost of a mini tummy tuck is typically less than that of a traditional abdominoplasty. This is because it is a quicker procedure and uses less invasive techniques. Costs can vary depending on your unique situation, so it’s best to consult with your surgeon to get a more accurate estimate.
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to improve your belly area, a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. Consult with Dr Doyle today and find out if this procedure is right for your unique body and goals.
Mini Tummy Tuck Scars
For many people, restoring a flatter and more toned abdomen is an important goal. But the scars from this procedure can be a source of anxiety for some.
Scars are low on the abdomen, above the pubic mound. They typically measure about 20 centimetres or less in length.
Dr Doyle offers comprehensive scar management as part of his plastic surgery package. This involves the use of topical scar creams and UV light treatments. The goal is to help the scar become as pale as possible.
Mini Tummy Tuck vs Liposuction
Liposuction involves removing small pockets of fat using a cannula. Liposuction alone is unlikely to correct sagging skin, yet it can help tone up a bulging belly.
While liposuction can be an effective way to smooth out your abdomen, it may not be the best option for everyone. A mini tummy tuck is a more comprehensive approach. It can address many issues such as excess skin and stretch marks in one procedure.
Liposuction and a mini tummy tuck procedure can combine for the best results if needed.
Recovery
The time needed to recover is the same if you have only a mini tuck or combine a mini tummy tuck with liposuction.
Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within 2-3 weeks. Although you should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 6 weeks.
Which Type of Tummy Tuck is Right for You?
The best way to determine which type of tummy tuck is right for you is to book a consultation with Dr Doyle. He is a specialist plastic surgeon with many years of experience.
Whether you want to improve the appearance of your stomach after pregnancy or weight loss, a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. Consult with Dr Doyle today to find out if this procedure is right for you.
To book a consultation, please give us a call. Or, please submit an enquiry form on our website and one of our team will be in touch with you shortly.
What Other Types of Tummy Tuck are There?
As well as a mini tummy tuck and a standard tummy tuck, there are other types of tummy tucks. These are more comprehensive and are suitable for patients with larger amounts of loose skin and excess fat.
Extended Tummy Tuck
The extended tummy tuck is for patients needing a significant amount of skin or fat removed. This is in their lower abdominal area and also the hip or lower back “love handle” regions. It is more invasive, with a longer incision made above the pubic area that extends to the back of each hip.
This procedure removes excess skin and fatty tissue tightens the abdominal muscles. This procedure is more invasive so patients need to spend one night in the hospital for recovery.
Fleur De Lis
This variation of tummy tuck is best suited for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight (20kg or more). It is a more complex procedure that removes a large amount of tissue. This excess loose skin is often referred to as an ‘apron.’
A Fleur De Lis can offer dramatic, life-changing results for many patients who have significant loose skin on their abdomen.
Mini Abdominoplasty FAQs
How Long Does It Take To See Mini Tummy Tuck Results?
The results of your surgery will be visible straight away. But, there will be swelling immediately after your surgery. This swelling will reduce over the course of a few weeks and months. Generally, you will see your final results about 6 months after your procedure.
Does Mini Tummy Tuck Tighten Muscles?
No. This procedure tightens below the belly button, but it does not treat divided muscles (usually in the middle or upper abdomen).
Does Mini Tummy Tuck Leave Scars?
Yes, all plastic surgery procedures leave scars. Scars from a mini tummy tuck are short, about 15-20cm in length, and placed on the bikini line.
Will a Mini Tummy Tuck Get Rid of Stretch Marks?
Most stretch marks are not removed with a mini tummy tuck, yet it may improve stretch marks between the belly button and the pubic bone. This is only if they are located on the excised skin.
Do I Need a Mini or a Full Tummy Tuck?
Mini tummy tucks are best for people who are of average weight and have a small, lower belly pouch. You’ll need a full tummy tuck if you have extra fat, droopy skin above your belly button, or if you’ve lost a lot of weight and have a lot of excess skin.
Is a Mini Abdominoplasty Worth It?
If you lack self-confidence due to sagging skin or a belly ‘pooch,’ then a mini tummy tuck is absolutely worth it.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
