Who Is the Right Candidate for a Mini Tummy Tuck?
Who Is the Right Candidate for a Mini Tummy Tuck?
If you’re considering a tummy tuck procedure (abdominoplasty), you may have come across the term “mini tummy tuck” in your research. While the two procedures sound very similar, each offers different types of results, and you may be better suited for one tummy tuck surgery over the other. So how do you know if you’re a good candidate for a mini tummy tuck? Before consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon to address your goals and concerns, it can be a good idea to have an understanding of the primary differences between the two procedures and who is the ideal candidate for each.
What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
During a mini tummy tuck, a small incision similar to that of a C-section is made in the lower abdomen, well below the belly button. The plastic surgeon can then remove excess skin and tighten slack muscle through this incision. For a full tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon will create a larger incision that may be located slightly higher than that of a mini tummy tuck. Again, this allows the removal of excess skin and tightening of muscle. To remove greater amounts of skin, another incision around the belly button may be necessary. Thus, the main difference between the two procedures lies in this variation in incision length and position, which will also yield slightly different results. (Mayo Clinic)
When to Consider a Mini Tummy Tuck
The best candidates for a mini tummy tuck will have minimal amounts of loose skin or muscle tissue that they’d like to have tightened to create a firmer, more toned look. Thus, men and women with very thin, slender builds, or those who are very active and physically fit can typically benefit from a mini abdominoplasty.
When a Full Tummy Tuck Is More Appropriate
Although a mini tummy tuck procedure can offer excellent results for the right candidate, some people may be better suited for a full abdominoplasty. Those with a larger amount of excess or loose skin and/or muscle tissue may want to consider the full procedure to achieve the dramatic results they’re looking for.
Additionally, women who want to get their pre-pregnancy body back with some help from plastic surgery can generally benefit from a full tummy tuck over a mini procedure, as pregnancy can cause significant stretching of the skin and abdominal muscles, in both the upper and lower abdominal regions. For similar reasons, traditional abdominoplasty is often the best option for men and women who have lost a large amount of weight and are looking to fine-tune their results. (The American Society of Plastic Surgeons)
Those considering a full tummy tuck might also be great candidates to add liposuction to their procedure, as a tummy tuck only removes excess skin and tightens loose muscle tissue, and does not remove excess fat. During a combined procedure, your plastic surgeon can remove small pockets of fat in the thigh and hip areas, too, delivering a more comprehensive approach. (The American Society of Plastic Surgeons)
Taking the Next Step
Sometimes, even with diet and exercise, it can be difficult to achieve your personal body goals, especially when significant weight loss and pregnancy may have caused excess or loose skin and muscle. When this is the case, a tummy tuck can be an effective solution to help you love your natural curves and body shape. If you’re unsure about whether or not a mini or a full tummy tuck might be right for you, it’s best to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she will be able to provide a detailed assessment of your body, as well as listen to your needs and goals and design a surgical plan uniquely suited to you.
Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Pittsburgh and Wexford offers high-quality plastic surgery procedures performed by our board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Heil. His years of experience, professional training, and attention to detail make Dr. Heil one of the most sought-after plastic surgeons in the Pittsburgh area. View our before and after photo gallery to see examples of real abdominoplasty results that Dr. Heil has been able to achieve.
For more information, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heil, please contact us at 724-264-3608 to take the first step towards looking and feeling your absolute best.
