Mini Tummy Tuck FAQs

While mini tummy tuck isn’t as invasive as full tummy tuck, it is still surgery — and as with any surgical procedure, you should have all the facts so that you make informed decisions about your treatment. If you’re considering having a mini tummy tuck to restore a flattened appearance to your abdominal area, read this post for the answers to mini tummy tuck FAQs.

Understanding Mini Tummy Tuck

The mini tummy tuck procedure requires a shorter incision, smaller scar and a more abbreviated recovery period. It focuses on improving the area below the belly button. However, you need to ask your board certified plastic surgeon whether you are a good candidate. If you have severely weakened or separated abdominal muscles and a surplus of fat and skin above the belly button, you are likely a better candidate for full tummy tuck.

If you qualify for mini tummy tuck, do your research. Ask your plastic surgeon how many mini tummy tucks he or she has performed, and be sure to read patient reviews and look at before-and-after photos to get a better sense of the surgeon’s typical work.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mini Tummy Tuck

Q) How long will the recovery be?

A) You’ll need about 10-14 days to recover.

Q) How does it differ from traditional full tummy tuck?

A) Mini tummy tuck is intended for individuals concerned about excess fat and skin and minimal stretch marks below the belly button. The incision for full tummy tuck goes all the way across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic hairline. The mini tummy tuck incision is also made just above the pubic hairline, but it is much shorter. Only minimal stretchmarks can be addressed during a mini tummy tuck, but these can be fixed or nearly fixed with a full tummy tuck.

Q) Can I have more children after having a mini tummy tuck?

A) It is not recommended, as the benefits of the procedure will likely be undone.

Q) How much weight can I lose by getting a mini tummy tuck?

A) Not a significant amount of weight. It’s important to remember that tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure but a body contouring treatment.

Q) How long will mini tummy tuck surgery take?

A) While full tummy tuck usually takes about two to three hours, mini tummy tuck can be done more quickly, since the treatment area is limited to underneath the belly button.

Q) What happens during a mini tummy tuck?

A) The excess skin between your mons pubis and belly button is excised. Liposuction is sometimes performed at the same time. Unlike with a full tummy tuck, the belly button remains in place.

Q) Do I have to go under anesthesia during a mini tummy tuck?

A) Yes, anesthesia is used during mini tummy tuck surgery. Your surgeon can discuss your anesthesia options and answer any related questions.

Contact Dr. Carlos Chacon

If you have questions about mini tummy tuck that weren’t answered with these FAQs, contact us at (858) 633-7546.