You’ve dieted. You’ve worked out. And you’ve reached your goal weight—but you’re still struggling with a pooch. This is a common scenario we see at our practice, and it often means it’s time for us to explore your options for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).
But are you a mini tummy tuck candidate, or should you get a full tummy tuck? Let’s compare each procedure to help determine which procedure best fits your needs.
What is a Mini Tummy Tuck vs. Full Tummy Tuck?
Most patients can achieve their desired results from a full tummy tuck. This procedure targets loose, excess skin in the upper and lower areas of the abdomen. I make a horizontal incision above the pubic hairline to pull the skin down, remove excess skin and fatty tissue, and repair weakened abdominal muscles as needed. Making a second incision to reposition the belly button is usually necessary to blend in with your natural contours. Finally, I suture the incisions and place temporary surgical drains.
A mini, or modified tummy tuck, targets only the lower abdominal area. During this procedure, I make a small incision between the pubic hairline and the navel to pull and tighten loose skin. A mini tummy tuck is typically a few thousand dollars less than a full tummy tuck. However, not all patients are good candidates for a mini tummy tuck.
| Mini Tummy Tuck | Full Tummy Tuck |
| Targets only the area below the belly button | Targets the upper and lower abdomen |
| Shorter incision | Repairs separated abdominal muscles |
| Less expensive procedure | Usually requires a second incision |
| Shorter recovery window | Reconstructs the bellybutton opening |
| More limited results | Comprehensive results |
Am I A Good Mini Tummy Tuck Candidate?
While a full tummy tuck is best for most patients, you may be an ideal mini tummy tuck candidate if you only have a slight pooch, your loose skin is minimal, and you don’t require any abdominal muscle repair. To help determine the best approach, I’ll conduct a thorough physical examination, we’ll discuss your goals, and then develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and desired results. If your body contouring goals extend beyond a tummy tuck, I may recommend other procedures, such as liposuction or a mommy makeover.
Full vs. Mini Tummy Tuck Recovery & Results
While it’s important to point out that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure, it can help you achieve the trim, sculpted physique you’ve been yearning for. A full tummy tuck is a more extensive surgery requiring a more prolonged recovery. Be prepared to take at least 2 to 3 weeks off from work to prioritize rest and healing. While you will see improvement after a few weeks, it can take up to 6 months to completely heal and achieve your results. Conversely, a mini tummy tuck has a shorter recovery window of 1 to 2 weeks, but results are less transformative.
Are you ready to enhance your self-confidence with a tummy tuck? Head over to our gallery to view tummy tuck before and after results. Then, let’s explore whether a mini or a full tummy tuck fits your needs. Contact us to arrange a consultation or call us at (818) 500-0823 to schedule an appointment.
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