Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery
(Mini Abdominoplasty)
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia
- Potential Benefits: Firmer and more toned abdominal appearance below the navel
- Procedure Length: About two to three hours
- Recovery: Approximately one to two weeks before patients can return to work and four to six weeks before strenuous exercise can be resumed
- Cost: Approximately $10,000
- What Is Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery?
- Mini Tummy Tuck Candidates
- Extended Mini Tummy Tuck
- Combining Mini Tummy Tuck with Other Surgeries
- Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure
- Mini Tummy Tuck Recovery
- Mini Tummy Tuck Results
- Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery Cost
What Is Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Similar to traditional tummy tuck surgery, mini tummy tuck surgery (mini abdominoplasty) is designed to reduce excess skin on the abdomen, minimize fatty tissue volume, and tighten loose abdominal muscles (if needed). The difference between the two procedures is the scope of benefits. In a traditional abdominoplasty, the incision will be longer, and more of the abdominal region can be treated. In a mini abdominoplasty, only the area below the navel, or belly button, is addressed, and the incision is usually shorter. During your initial consultation, Dr. Joseph DiBello can determine if this procedure or a standard approach can give you the results you’re looking for.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Mini tummy tuck surgery only improves the appearance and contour of the abdomen below the belly button, so if you have significant skin laxity or excess fat above this area (which may be identified by wrinkling or “pooching”), a full abdominoplasty may be a better option.
Furthermore, ideal patients will be in good overall health, maintain a stable and healthy weight, and desire a firmer, flatter midsection below the navel. We also want you to have reasonable expectations for the outcome, and we will thoroughly discuss what can be achieved and what to expect at your first visit with our board-certified plastic surgeon.
What Is an Extended Mini Tummy Tuck?
In addition to mini abdominoplasty, Dr. DiBello is proficient in another popular tummy tuck strategy: the extended mini tummy tuck. Usually best suited for patients with good skin tone but
significant muscle laxity in the upper and lower midsection, the extended mini tummy tuck features the same extent of muscle tightening as the “full” technique. However, extended mini tummy tuck scars more closely resemble those made in a mini tummy tuck, which are similar to C-section scars.
As a skilled plastic surgeon, Dr. DiBello will tailor your procedure around your individual cosmetic goals. He would be happy to discuss tummy tuck strategies in more detail at your consultation.
Combining Mini Tummy Tuck with Other Surgeries
Depending on your aesthetic needs, Dr. DiBello may be able to combine your mini tummy tuck with additional procedures. Apart from liposuction (which is frequently used in this strategy to reduce unwanted fat below the navel),* surgeries that can be combined with mini tummy tuck include umbilicoplasty (see below), breast augmentation, facial enhancement procedures like facial fat transfer surgery, and many more.
Alternatively, comprehensive treatments aimed at restoring the pre-pregnancy physique are referred to as “mommy makeovers.” This option often includes tummy tuck methods for women who desire more youthful-looking abdominal contours. If you are interested in combining your mini tummy tuck with another surgery or a combination of procedures, feel free to discuss this with Dr. DiBello during your first appointment.
What Is an Umbilicoplasty?
An umbilicoplasty is a surgical technique that focuses on reshaping and recontouring the belly button (or navel).* This step is generally part of the full tummy tuck procedure. Meanwhile, in the case of mini abdominoplasty and extended mini tummy tuck surgery, umbilicoplasty is often (but not always) included. Using advanced umbilicoplasty methods, Dr. DiBello can more comprehensively create a more aesthetically pleasing midsection. In many cases, the strategy can be performed in our office.
What Happens During the Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure?
Dr. DiBello performs all his mini tummy tuck procedures at a fully-accredited local hospital under general anesthesia. An incision will be made low on your midsection near the pelvis in a location that should, once healed, be easily concealed by your clothing. The length of the incision will be determined based on your anatomic needs and cosmetic goals, and Dr. DiBello will show you approximately how long the scar will be during your consultation. Generally, the size and location of the incision results in a scar similar to a C-section. After the incision, Dr. DiBello will trim away excess skin, use liposuction to contour the area, repair loose or torn muscles in the area, and redrape the abdominal skin. There is no need to reposition the belly button since all treatment will be performed below this point.
What Should I Expect During Mini Tummy Tuck Recovery?
While mini tummy tuck surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, and most people can return home the same day as the operation, an overnight stay in the hospital is an option. Swelling, bruising, and some soreness are to be expected, and these effects should subside as you heal.
Mini abdominoplasty often is less invasive than a traditional tummy tuck, so recovery may go more quickly. That said, it is important to let your body heal fully to achieve the best possible outcome. We will provide prescription medication to manage your pain and ensure your experience is as easy as possible. Most patients can return to work and normal daily activity after one to two weeks, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least four to six weeks, or as long as Dr. DiBello advises.
What Are the Typical Results of a Mini Tummy Tuck?
The majority of Dr. DiBello’s mini tummy tuck patients are thrilled with the results. In the hands of a skilled, compassionate provider like Dr. DiBello, a mini tummy tuck can help patients achieve a flatter, firmer, and more aesthetically pleasing appearance in the lower belly (which many patients consider a “problem area”). During your consultation, Dr. DiBello can share examples of mini tummy tucks performed on individuals with similar aesthetic goals to help you set realistic expectations for your potential results.
How Much Does Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery Cost?
The price of your mini tummy tuck surgery will depend on the complexity of your treatment plan, the techniques used, and other individual factors. At DiBello Plastic Surgery, the cost range for a mini abdominoplasty procedure is approximately $10,000.
When researching mini abdominoplasty prices, you may notice that most price quotes found online are solely representative of the surgeon’s fee. The range provided above is inclusive of the overall cost of a mini tummy tuck, which consists of many variables—the surgeon’s fee, hospital (or surgical facility) fees, pre- and post-operative medications, anesthesiologist fees, and more. To obtain a customized price quote, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. DiBello to obtain a better idea of what to expect. We want you to feel comfortable and confident in your choice, and we will provide an open and understanding environment for you to ask questions and to take the next steps to achieve your goals.
Contact Us
Ready to schedule your mini tummy tuck? Contact DiBello Plastic Surgery today.