Although full abdominoplasty surgery is still more common than partial abdominoplasty surgery, for the right candidate, a mini tummy tuck is all that is needed to provide patients with a slimmer, sculpted stomach.

A partial abdominoplasty, also known as mini tummy tuck, is a less extensive surgery than a full abdominoplasty. When having a partial abdominoplasty, the belly button does not have to be repositioned, and a lot less excess skin and fat are removed.

Most patients who undergo the mini version of abdominoplasty are women who have had multiple pregnancies, and people who have experienced fluctuations in their weight, causing the abdomen to stretch out. Even with diet and exercise, patients are not able to tighten the skin or reduce the fat in the abdominal region.

Best Mini Tummy Tuck Candidates

Patients who undergo partial abdominoplasty surgery usually do not have large folds of hanging fat and skin, only small to moderate areas of excess skin and fat. The best candidates are those who are in good health and have only minimal to moderate areas of loose skin and fat in the abdomen. People who have hanging folds of skin and fat that hang down to the pubic bone or hips usually require a full abdominoplasty to achieve the desired results of a firmer and flatter stomach.

Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure

When undergoing a mini tummy tuck, liposuction is usually first performed of the abdomen and flanks. This helps to achieve the desired results of a better contour of the waist. After liposuction, the surgeon will make an incision (usually no longer than 8 inches) in the lower central portion of the abdomen. A small section of skin and fat is then removed. To help firm the abdominal region, the muscles extending up to the belly button are often tightened. Once the procedure is completed, the skin is brought together and sutured together.

What to Expect After a Mini Tummy Tuck

Patients are usually given a compression garment to wear for about six weeks after the mini tummy tuck procedure. This device helps shrink the skin and minimize swelling and fluid retention. Once fully recovered, patients can expect to see a flat stomach with a discreet scar in the lower abdomen. Often times the scar is placed below the bikini line to conceal it. The scar from a partial abdominoplasty is usually half the length of that of a full abdominoplasty.