Mini Tummy Tuck
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Dallas, TX
Despite adhering strictly to exercise and diet regimens, pockets of abdominal fat and loose, sagging skin can be extremely difficult or impossible to eliminate. Double Board Certified Dallas plastic surgeon, Steven J White, MD frequently helps patients in these situations attain the flat and toned midsection they are looking for with a mini tummy tuck procedure. Unlike a traditional or full abdominoplasty, where the incision goes from one hip to the other, a mini tummy tuck uses a smaller, easier to conceal incision, great for patients with a lesser amount of loose skin and stretched abdominal muscles. With a comprehensive examination and consultation, Dr. White, an experienced abdominoplasty surgeon, can help you determine if a full tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck would be the best means for you to to reach your goals.
Contents
Before and After Photos
Surgical Technique
The technique used for a mini tummy tuck is similar to that of full abdominoplasty. However, with a mini version the incision is much smaller and the area addressed will be just under the belly button. Liposuction is usually used during this procedure to remove excess fat. The excess skin that remains will be pulled tight so that the tummy has a new toned, flat appearance. In most cases, the belly button is unaffected. Scarring, while it does exist, is minimal and is easily concealed under a bathing suit or under garments.
During/After Surgery
A mini tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete. The recovery generally takes about 4-6 weeks; this is when clearance to resume exercise is usually given. No longer forced to “suck it in”, patients love their results and feel that their abdomens look and feel more toned and fit. The results following a mini tummy tuck are considered permanent unless a pregnancy or significant weight gain occurs, both of which could compromise the results of the surgery.
Expected Cost
Abdominoplasty continues to be a popular choice for men and women seeking flatter, tighter stomachs following weight loss and pregnancy. Because a mini tummy tuck is a less extensive surgery than a full abdominoplasty, the cost will be a little less.
Mini Tummy Tuck FAQs
Can’t I Just Have Lipo?
For mini tummy tuck patients, liposuction alone may be a possibility. Liposuction is a procedure that removes fat only. It is a good surgery choice for patients who have good skin tone and tight abdominal muscles. However, it will not benefit those who have sagging skin. When a patient comes to see us for the first time, we will work together to learn the patient’s aesthetic goals and review the procedures that might help meet those goals. For some, even a little hanging skin may warrant a mini tummy tuck.
Prior C-Section?
Women who have had a C-section will typically have a scar that runs horizontally in the lower abdomen. During a mini tummy tuck, an incision will be made very close to the C-section incision. Once the loose skin is trimmed away and the area is pulled tight, the two incisions are essentially combined into one which will allow for only one scar to remain. This scar will still be located in an area that will be hidden by undergarments and a bathing suit bottom.
What if I Get Pregnant?
Abdominoplasty surgery should probably be delayed until after all pregnancies have been completed. The goal of a tummy tuck procedure is to tighten the abdominal wall. Getting pregnant after a tummy tuck may spoil the surgical results.