Opting for a Mini Tummy Tuck

Getting excess skin and fat removed from the stomach area is called a tummy tuck. Medically called an abdominoplasty, the procedure is done for people after a large amount of weight loss, surgery or pregnancy. Individuals not wanting to get a complete abdominoplasty have the option of having a partial abdominoplasty, which is also known as a mini tummy tuck. The procedure focuses on the lower abdomen where excess fat and skin can be stored. In some case, liposuction is performed as well.

Because it only deals with the lower portion of the abdomen area, a mini tummy tuck is less invasive and requires a shorter recovery time for patients. It is a good option for people with a small amount of loose skin and muscles below the belly button.

During a mini tummy tuck, after the patient is put under with anesthesia, an incision is made in the lower abdomen. Another incision is made near the belly button and excess skin and fat are removed. The surgeon will then tighten and repair the stomach muscles.

Complications are minimal and recovery from the procedure is normally fairly quick. The speed of recovery is because the surgeon is not moving the navel as he or she would in a complete abdominoplasty. There is also a much shorter scar than with a complete abdominoplasty and there is no scar around the belly button, which can be a troublesome place because it does not always heal the way the surgeon and patient would like. That is why many surgeons and patients prefer the mini tummy tuck.

There may be some scarring, but that normally disappears with in a few weeks. Once the patient is back on his or her feet – usually within a day or two of the operation – the effects of the operation are hidden from others. When the patient fully recovers – normally within about two weeks – the benefits of the surgery are seen with a more toned abdomen.

Before you have the procedure done, you will have a consultation with your surgeon. He or she will go through your medical history to see if you are a good candidate for surgery. Let the surgeon know if you are a smoker or if you have had any diseases. These play a role and could complicate a procedure. And know that a smaller percentage of people qualify, so don't be discouraged if your doctor says the procedure is not right for you and encourages a complete abdominoplasty. If you have any excess skin above the belly button, your doctor will likely recommend a full abdominoplasty. Also, it depends on the patient. Some people are OK with a little fluff above the belly button. If that is true for you, a mini tummy tuck might still work. The operation can and will be tailored to the patient's wishes and the doctor's recommendations.

Know that there are limitations. The procedure will not remove excess skin above the belly button and it cannot improve the shape of a distorted belly button.