Mini
Tummy Tuck

Overview

No matter how much you exercise and diet, you may never have a flat, well-toned stomach. Genetics, aging, and other factors can create loose and sagging skin in the lower section of the abdomen that can only be corrected by a mini tummy tuck.

A variation of a regular tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty surgery, a mini tummy tuck concentrates on the lower portion of the stomach to remove the excess skin and fat, commonly known as a “pooch.” Dr. Paresi of Contour Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Downers Grove, IL performs mini tummy tuck surgery on patients who are in good overall health and condition with good skin elasticity, but they need a little extra help getting to a flat, toned stomach.

Mini Tummy Tuck Results

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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.

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 generally 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.

Four Keys to a Better Outcomes and Better Results for Tummy Tucks

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. So, while it is a good surgery choice for patients who have relatively good skin tone and tight abdominal muscles, it will not benefit those who have sagging skin. When a patient comes to see us for the first time, once we learn the patient’s aesthetic goals, we review the procedures that might help meet those goals and how they differ. 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 and you are done having children. The goal of a tummy tuck procedure is to tighten the abdominal wall. Getting pregnant after a tummy tuck procedure will spoil your surgical results and something we would discourage.

Still have a question?

At Contour Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your choices. Contact us today to schedule your consultation — your journey to looking and feeling your best starts here!