What is the difference between a "Mini" Tummy Tuck and a Standard Tummy Tuck?

Let me start by answering, "What is Mini Tummy Tuck?" A mini tummy tuck, which may also be addressed as a "modified tummy tuck", IS still a tummy tuck, just not as extensive as that of a full (standard) tummy tuck.

A mini tummy tuck procedure is perfect for both men and women who have a small to moderate amount of fullness and/or redundant abdominal skin (primarily in the lower abdominal region.) The operation is often executed with the patient under general anesthesia for the patient's comfort. Prior to surgery, the surgeon(s) will have already identified the area of skin in which will be excised. The extent or length of the incision depends on that concluding action. But in the case of a mini tummy tuck, the ellipse of skin to be removed is below the belly button, and is typically a smaller amount of fat and skin to be removed than that compared to a conventional tummy tuck. This is the reason why it is also referred as "mini" or "modified" tummy tuck. In many cases, a mini tummy tuck also involves liposuction of the abdomen and waist to achieve the best contour.

In a conventional tummy tuck, the doctor needs to move the patient’s navel. The surgeon(s) undermine and elevate the skin and fat from the abdominal muscle, typically as high as possible (to just about under the bottom of the chest. The belly button is detached from its surrounding skin allowing the skin to slide/move as much extra skin and fat down to close the open wound. The excess skin is then cut away. The belly button stalk is buried and therefore a new hole must be created to reattach to the belly button stalk. Thus, this is why many patients explain that they have a new belly button from a tummy tuck procedure. The reality is, the belly button is still the same belly button, it is just surrounded by skin that was once about it.

Geometrically, because the ellipse of skin is greater with a fill tummy tuck, this is the reason why the incision is longer than that of a mini tummy tuck.

Interested in a tighter, flatter, abdomen? Diet and exercise just not cutting it?

Want to know if a conventional tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck is best for you?

For a Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Consultation regarding the most suitable plastic surgery regimen for you, please call us at 310.275.6600