There are a few main differences between a mini tummy tuck and a standard Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty). First, it is essential to remember that both types of Tummy Tucks serve different purposes, and one may be right for you but not for another patient. Second, a mini tummy tuck is designed to remove a small amount of excess skin, and only a small number of women would benefit from a mini tummy tuck. A standard tummy tuck addresses a larger amount of excess skin and is best suited to most patients inquiring about Tummy Tuck surgery. Surgically speaking, the incision for a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is much shorter than a regular tummy tuck. The belly button is also left in its original position, and untouched with a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) .
The time in the operating theatre to perform a mini tummy tuck is much shorter than a full tummy tuck. A shorter procedure brings the added benefit of a much shorter downtime. You will likely only need one week before returning to light activities and four weeks before returning to normal activities.
A Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is more suitable for those with only a small degree of excess skin on the lower part of the abdominal wall below the belly button and in the pubic or mons region. Some patients who would otherwise be a candidate for a full Tummy Tuck opt for the Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) if they do not wish to go through the surgery, scars, costs and recovery time of a full Tummy Tuck procedure.
No. Also, contrary to common belief, the belly button never moves with a traditional Tummy Tuck. However, a traditional Tummy Tuck does leave a scar around and within the belly button. In contrast, during a typical Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), the belly button is left completely untouched and is not moved, and no scar is created around or within the belly button.
Of course, some variations do exist, and occasionally the belly button may be moved or ‘floated’ down the abdominal wall. Also, sometimes a scar may be created within the belly button.
Muscle tightening is not typically part of a standard Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty). However, variations do exist, and some patients may require muscle tightening to achieve the necessary outcome. In contrast, most patients undergoing a traditional Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) do require muscle tightening.
Whilst a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is a much less invasive procedure can to a standard Tummy Tuck, all surgery carries potential risks that you need to understand. LEARN MORE