Procedures
Mini Tummy Tuck
In the world of cosmetic surgery, procedures are continuously evolving to cater to a wider range of needs. One such development is the Mini Tummy Tuck, a less invasive variant of the traditional tummy tuck. With society placing a lot of value on physical appearance, the demand for procedures like these has significantly increased.
A Mini Tummy Tuck is a good alternative for individuals who wish to enhance their figure but prefer a less invasive procedure. Unlike the full tummy tuck, which works on both the upper and lower abdomen, the Mini Tummy Tuck primarily focuses on the area below the belly button.
Chester Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna performs mini tummy tuck procedures, as well as other face, body and skin procedures.
At a glance
General Anaesthesia
1-2 weeks
Table of Contents
What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
The Mini Tummy Tuck, or skin-only tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that tightens the skin in the lower abdomen. It targets the area below the belly button where skin elasticity may be lost due to factors such as weight loss, ageing, or pregnancy.
Unlike a full abdominoplasty, which involves the tightening of abdominal muscles, a Mini Tummy Tuck doesn’t alter the muscles but focuses on removing excess skin and possibly some fat. As a result, it provides a firmer, smoother lower abdominal profile without significant changes to your overall physique.
Here are some characteristics of a Mini Tummy Tuck:
- It involves shorter surgery time compared to a full tummy tuck
- It requires smaller incisions
- It primarily focuses on skin removal without muscle tightening
- It generally has a quicker recovery time
Who Needs a Mini Tummy Tuck?
As with any cosmetic procedure, the Mini Tummy Tuck isn’t for everyone. Ideal candidates are those who are in good overall health, at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the outcome.
If you have a small amount of loose skin in your lower abdomen that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, you may consider this procedure. This excess skin might be a result of:
- Weight loss
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Ageing
Bear in mind, however, that if you’re considering getting pregnant or plan to lose a significant amount of weight in the future, you might want to postpone this procedure. Substantial changes to your body could alter the results of the Mini Tummy Tuck.
Also, if you have extensive loose skin or separated abdominal muscles (often as a result of pregnancy), you might be better suited to a full tummy tuck.
Benefits of the Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure
The Mini Tummy Tuck has several benefits that make it an attractive option for many people. Here are some of them:
- Improved Appearance: This procedure can help you achieve a firmer and flatter lower abdomen by getting rid of excess skin
- Reduced Scarring: Since smaller incisions are made, the scarring from a Mini Tummy Tuck is less visible than with a full tummy tuck
- Quicker Recovery: As a less invasive procedure, the recovery time is generally faster compared to a full tummy tuck
- Cost-Effective: Being a less complicated procedure, a Mini Tummy Tuck often costs less than a full tummy tuck
While the procedure can significantly improve your physical appearance, it should not be viewed as a weight loss solution or substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
Types of Procedures
Mini Tummy Tuck (Skin Only)
As the name suggests, this procedure focuses only on removing excess skin from the lower abdomen. There’s no work done on the muscles or the naval area, making it the least invasive option.
Procedure:
- A horizontal incision is made just above the pubic area
- Excess skin from the lower abdomen is removed
- The remaining skin is then sutured back together
Ideal For:
- Those with moderate loose skin limited to the lower abdomen
- Individuals who don’t have substantial abdominal muscle separation
Mini Tummy Tuck with Liposuction
For those who have a small amount of stubborn fat along with loose skin, a Mini Tummy Tuck can be combined with liposuction. Anca removes the fat first, then proceeds with the skin tightening. This approach allows for more contouring and a more defined result.
Procedure:
- Initially, liposuction is carried out to remove stubborn fat pockets from the abdomen
- Post liposuction, a Mini Tummy Tuck is performed to get rid of the excess skin and to tighten the remaining skin
Ideal For:
- Individuals who have moderate fat deposits in the lower abdomen along with loose skin
- Those looking for a more sculpted and contoured appearance
How is the Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure Performed?
The Mini Tummy Tuck is a systematic procedure that requires precision. Here’s a concise breakdown of its key steps:
Consultation and Planning
- Discussion: Meet with your plastic surgeon to understand the procedure, discuss goals, and review medical history
- Examination: Your plastic surgeon assesses the abdomen’s condition to customise the procedure
Anaesthesia
- Type: General anaesthesia is common, but sometimes local anaesthesia with sedation is used
- Monitoring: Continuous observation of vital signs ensures patient safety
Incision
- Location: Made above the pubic area for easy concealment
- Size: Varies based on skin amount to be removed
Removal of Excess Skin and Fat
- Skin Lifting: Abdominal skin is elevated to the level of the belly button
- Liposuction: Used if necessary to remove excess fat
- Skin Trimming: Excess skin is trimmed post fat removal
Closing the Incision
- Redraping: Remaining skin is pulled taut for a smooth appearance
- Suturing: Incisions are closed with sutures suitable to the patient’s skin and your plastic surgeon’s preference
Post-operative Care
- Dressings: Applied to keep incision areas clean
- Compression Garment: Worn to reduce swelling and support healing
- Observation: Patients are monitored in a recovery room post-surgery
Recovery after the Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure
Recovery from a Mini Tummy Tuck usually takes less time than a full tummy tuck due to its less invasive nature. But it’s important to remember that recovery times vary depending on individual circumstances and the extent of the procedure.
Here are some typical aspects of the recovery period:
- Immediate Recovery: Immediately after the procedure, you will likely experience some discomfort, swelling and bruising. These symptoms are normal and should improve over the first few days. Anca will provide you with specific instructions to care for your incision site and manage any discomfort
- Activity Restrictions: For the first few weeks, you’ll need to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting. This gives your body the time it needs to heal properly
- Return to Work: Depending on the nature of your job, you may be able to return to work within one to two weeks of the procedure. If your job involves physical exertion, you may need a little more time off
- Final Results: Although you’ll see an immediate improvement in your lower abdomen’s appearance, the final results of your Mini Tummy Tuck can take a few months to show. This is because it takes time for the swelling to completely subside and the skin to settle into its new position
Following your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely can help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Risks of the Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure
Like all surgical procedures, the Mini Tummy Tuck comes with its share of risks. While it is generally considered safe, it’s important to be aware of potential complications. These could include:
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is always a risk of infection. Your plastic surgeon will likely prescribe antibiotics to help prevent this
- Bleeding: Although rare, there can be instances of postoperative bleeding. If the bleeding is severe, it may require another operation to control it
- Scarring: Any surgical procedure that involves incisions will result in some scarring. However, Anca places these incisions in less noticeable areas
- Numbness or Altered Sensation: Some patients may experience numbness or a change in sensation in the lower abdomen. This is typically temporary, but in some rare cases, it could be permanent
- Unsatisfactory Results: There is always a risk that you may not be completely satisfied with the results of your surgery. Factors such as asymmetry, contour irregularities, or unmet expectations can contribute to this
- Anaesthesia Risks: Like any procedure involving anaesthesia, there are associated risks including allergic reactions and complications with breathing
While the Mini Tummy Tuck procedure is a fantastic option for those looking to tighten and reshape their lower abdomen, it is essential to remember that it is still a significant decision that should be made with careful consideration.
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anca. You can find how patients feel about her work below.
Very pleased to have been seen by Ms Breahna for a FDL Tummy Tuck and Gynecomastia correction. She is very professional, caring and a master in the profession. I am extremely happy with my results at 6 months on and finally have the body confidence I have been lacking. Its always been a pleasure to speak with Ms Breahna with any questions or concerns I have had and the recovery journey has been straightforward. Would highly, highly recommend!
TUMMY TUCK, BREAST REDUCTION/ UPLIFT AND LIPOSUCTION Dr Breahna is a BRILLIANT cosmetic surgeon!!! I felt completely reassured, comfortable and more importantly safe in her care during two surgeries; tummy tuck in Feb’ 23 and breast reduction/ uplift and liposuction in Nov’ 23. She is very professional and has lovely calm demeanour; she went into every detail explaining what to expect from my surgery from start to finish which made me feel reassured I was in safe hands. I’m 59 years of age and as we all know, with age, everything heads ‘South’, droopy boobs, tummy etc.. and I had an always hated my tummy as I had an overhang/ apron from having my son, some 30yrs ago. This has always bothered me as nothing ever fitted properly and I had to always wear larger sizes and oversized tops to cover the apron and now with my ‘very nice’ as my hubby would say new boobs, I can now get into Primary size S clothing which I’m absolutely delighted with, as I’ve gone down two dress sizes. I now love how I look and feel. Honestly the results are amazing. I’m going back for more surgery.
Thank you again Dr Breahna
xx
Excellent service. Just had a tummy tuck and liposuction. Dr Breahna is an amazing surgeon; whilst taking a professional approach she is also very caring and empathetic to ones needs. I can’t wait to see the results once swelling has gone down.
Huge thank you to my anesetist who was amazing.
Very pleased to have seen and been worked on by Ms Breahna. Every question answered, every concern noted, every fear quelled. I had a FDL tummy tuck with the muscle repair and gynecomastia correction. Extremely happy with the results, beautiful scaring and I now have the body positivity I wanted. Would 100% recommend seeing her, she is a master and the years of experience shows in the results.
Miss Breahna was excellent throughout the whole process , From the first consultation to post operation . Explained and answered any questions I had and put myself at ease . So so pleased with the result of my tummy tuck, liposuction and muscle repair would highly recommend miss Anca Breahna.
Further Reading
- Read Anca’s Blog on How Much Is a Tummy Tuck in the UK ?
- Read Anca’s Blog on What Do Tummy Tuck Scars Look Like And Can They Be Reduced?
- Read Anca’s Blog on What Is a Healthy Weight for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
- Read Anca’s Blog on What to Expect during Recovery after Tummy Tuck
- Read Anca’s Blog on How to Reduce Swelling and Bruising after Tummy Tuck Surgery
Procedure
Frequently asked questions
What distinguishes a Mini Tummy Tuck from a full Tummy Tuck?
- A Mini Tummy Tuck specifically targets the lower abdomen, below the belly button, and usually involves removing excess skin and sometimes tightening the lower abdominal muscles. A full Tummy Tuck, on the other hand, addresses both the upper and lower abdomen and often involves more extensive muscle repair.
Who is the ideal candidate for a Mini Tummy Tuck?
- The ideal candidate for a Mini Tummy Tuck is someone in good health with mild to moderate skin excess or sagging in the lower abdomen, often due to ageing, heredity, pregnancy, or minor weight fluctuations. It’s particularly suited for those who don’t require extensive muscle repair or skin removal.
What is the recovery time for a Mini Tummy Tuck?
- While recovery can vary based on the individual and the exact procedure performed, most patients can return to non-strenuous work within 1 to 2 weeks. Physical activities, especially those that strain the abdominal region, should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks or as advised by your surgeon.
Will there be a visible scar after the procedure?
- While there will be a scar, it is usually located just above the pubic area, making it easily concealable with underwear or swimwear. Over time, with proper care, the scar can fade considerably, though it won’t disappear entirely.
Are the results of a Mini Tummy Tuck permanent?
- The results of a Mini Tummy Tuck can be long-lasting, especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle. However, factors such as significant weight fluctuations, ageing, and future pregnancies can influence the longevity of the results. It’s advisable to maintain a stable weight and follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to maximise the procedure’s benefits.
Medical References about Mini Tummy Tuck
- Mini Tummy Tuck: Everything You Need to Know – Realself.com
- What to Know About the Cost of a Mini Tummy Tuck – WebMD
- Tummy Tuck Recovery: Timeline and Tips – Medical News Today
- Five Things to Consider Before Getting A Tummy Tuck – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Tummy Tuck – Mayo Clinic
Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of breast, body and face surgery and minor skin procedures.
