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Procedures

Mini Tummy Tuck

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.

 

Download Anca Breahna’s Tummy Tuck Guide

Tummy Tuck Guide

 

At a glance

Procedure Anaesthesia
General Anaesthesia
Procedure Downtime
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

Mini tummy tuck candidates

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 performed

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.

 

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Procedure

Frequently asked questions

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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.

 

About Anca Breahna – Consultant Plastic Surgeon

top UK cosmetic surgeon anca breahnaMs 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.

As one of the very few female Plastic Surgeons in her region, she is able to offer that unique female perspective, with empathy, attention to detail and personalised care.

Anca Breahna’s surgical training has been largely undertaken within the United Kingdom. She began a rigorous training programme in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in 1999, after achieving her medical degree from the University of Bucharest. Miss Breahna attained her PhD degree at the same university in 2007 for her medical research. She then relocated to the UK to further extend her qualifications and training.

Anca’s NHS practice is now focused on Breast Reconstructive Surgery, Skin Cancer Surgery, Hand Surgery and soft tissue reconstruction. Over the last 15 years, through her pursuit of further training and education, Anca has developed a special interest and expert practical experience in a range of Aesthetic Breast and Body Surgery.

It is Anca’s true dedication and commitment to her field, that sets her aside from her peers. Her extensive surgical training means that you are in safe hands. She is renowned for providing exceptional care, support and helping achieve realistic goals for her patients.

Anca will treat you in a straightforward manner, with respect, consideration and empathy to ensure you are comfortable with your choice.

 

 

Your Next Steps

Do your Research

  • Please read our website pages and blogs to learn more about your intended procedure.
  • All Surgery has risks and potential complications. Please read more about the risks of your surgery.

Making The Most Of Your Consultation

  • A Medical Referral from your Doctor before your consultation is not compulsory however  it is recommended.
  • Please arrive slightly early for your in-person consultation with Anca – Car parking is available on-site at all hospitals.
  • You are welcome to bring a friend or relative to help consider the information and discuss your options.
  • Please be aware you may need to undress for a physical exam so wear simple clothes.
  • Ensure you also take a lot of notes during the consultation and thoroughly read all the documents provided.

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

Please call to find out more about availability, pricing and medical payment plans or to request more information about the procedure, contact us.

How to Book your Consultation with Anca Breahna – Plastic Surgeon

You can book your consultation with Anca by paying the £150 cosmetic consultation fee when you make your appointment. This fee covers further consultations about the same concern.

Contact Anca’s Team

Call Claire on 0800 080 6026 or Joedy on 07538 012918 to arrange your consultation or email us for more information.

We look forward to hearing from you soon.

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