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Tummy Tuck

What’s The Difference Between A Mini and Full Tummy Tuck?

By October 18, 2019 No Comments
Everyone has heard of a tummy tuck–a plastic surgery that helps patients remove excess skin and fat to achieve a slimmer stomach–but many people don’t realize that not everyone who is a candidate for a tummy tuck needs a full one. Often, cosmetic surgeons will perform modified versions of the tummy tuck procedure–like a mini tummy tuck–to fit a patient’s specific needs. 
The main difference between a mini tuck and a full tummy tuck is that a mini tuck does not address the upper abdomen or belly button. A mini tummy tuck focuses on loose skin and fat in the lower stomach area. Often during a full tummy tuck, the belly button is repositioned to look more natural, but during a mini tuck, there is no reason for this because it does not affect the belly button. A mini involves a smaller incision than a full tummy tuck. 
Mini tucks best suit patients who are in good shape, but may need some help firming up the lower abdomen muscles or getting rid of extra skin after weight loss. The procedure addresses these concerns while leaving the upper abs and abdomen alone because they often do not need any treatment.
Dr. Jonov at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery performs full, mini, and extended tummy tuck procedures. In a consultation, he can recommend the tummy tuck best suited for you and your needs. 
A mini tummy tuck targets loose skin and small bulges below the belly button with a shorter incision and typically quicker recovery than a full abdominoplasty. It’s a great option for select Seattle‑area patients with good skin quality and minimal muscle separation. We can add focused liposuction for contouring and tailor recovery to your lifestyle.

FAQs

Who is a good candidate for a mini tummy tuck?

Ideal candidates have loose skin and a small lower‑abdominal “pooch” below the navel, minimal muscle separation, and stable weight. Significant laxity or diastasis usually benefits more from a full abdominoplasty. We’ll assess skin, fat, and muscle at consultation.

What’s the difference between a mini and a full tummy tuck?

A mini targets the lower abdomen with a shorter incision and usually less downtime. A full tummy tuck treats skin and muscle from ribs to pubic area and typically includes navel repositioning. Your anatomy and goals determine the best choice.

Will a mini tummy tuck repair my abdominal muscles?

Limited tightening can be performed in select cases, but broader diastasis repair is more typical with a full abdominoplasty. We’ll examine muscle separation and advise accordingly.

What will the scar look like?

The incision is placed low to be hidden by underwear or swimwear and is typically shorter than a full tummy tuck scar. Scar quality improves with time and proper care; we provide a plan for silicone therapy and sun protection.

What is recovery like and when can I exercise?

Many return to desk work in about a week. Walking is encouraged early; core exercise and heavy lifting are reintroduced gradually over several weeks. We tailor garment use and follow‑ups to your plan.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ABOUT DR. JONOV
ABOUT DR. JONOV
Dr. Craig Jonov specializes in plastic surgery of the face, breast, and body and has decades of experience providing the top surgical and non-surgical cosmetic services.