What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
For patients who are concerned with loose skin and excess fat on the upper and lower abdomen, a tummy tuck is likely the ideal solution. But what about those patients who are primarily concerned with the lower abdomen? A tummy tuck is not a good solution for patients who do not require that extent of alteration. However, if loose skin is a problem, liposuction may not provide adequate results either. Fortunately, our plastic surgeons at The Landings Surgical Centre have a solution for those patients who require more alteration than that provided by liposuction but less than a traditional tummy tuck. We offer our Nova Scotia patients a mini tummy tuck, which removes excess skin and fat and tightens muscles on the lower abdomen.
Candidates
Many people do not realize that a tummy tuck can be modified to meet the specific needs of each patient. For those requiring more alteration than provided during a traditional tummy tuck, an extended tummy tuck can be performed. Similarly, a mini tummy tuck is ideal for patients whose problem areas are confined, in this case to the lower abdomen. Ideal candidates for a mini tummy tuck include those with the following concerns:
- A bulge on the lower abdomen
- Excess fat on the lower abdomen
- Loose skin on the lower abdomen
If a patient’s primary concerns all exist in the portion of the abdomen that sits below the belly button, they are likely ideal candidates for a mini tummy tuck.
The Procedure
As with a traditional tummy tuck, the mini tummy tuck is performed with the patient under general anesthesia. A small incision will be made right at or just below the bikini line. This incision is shorter than that used for a traditional tummy tuck and is similar to that used for a cesarean section. Through this incision, our plastic surgeons will be able to tighten any slack lower abdominal muscles. Excess skin will also be removed and, if necessary, liposuction may be performed to remove excess fat and further improve the contour. When alterations are complete, the skin will be pulled taut and the incision will be closed. This procedure will result in a small scar (just a few inches in length) across the bikini line.
Recovery
A mini tummy tuck is a serious surgical procedure. However, because the alterations made during the procedure are limited compared to those of a traditional or extended tummy tuck, the recovery period will be shorter. Patients will return home in compression garments around the abdomen. These garments should be worn for two to three weeks to help control swelling. While a full recovery should take about a month, most patients are able to resume limited activity within just a few days after surgery and return to work within a week or two. As long as patients do not experience any significant fluctuations in weight, the results of a mini tummy tuck should be permanent.
Schedule an Appointment
At The Landings Surgical Centre, we understand that each patient’s aesthetic concerns are unique and we modify surgical procedures as necessary to provide patients with the degree of alterations they desire. The mini tummy tuck is one example of a surgical procedure that helps patients achieve their desired appearance without providing unnecessary alterations. If you would like to learn more about the mini tummy tuck technique, schedule an appointment with one of our skilled plastic surgeons at your earliest convenience. We look forward to meeting you!
