What Is A Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck—also known as a mini abdominoplasty—is a miniaturized version of traditional tummy tuck surgery. Instead of a hip-to-hip incision, a mini abdominoplasty uses a smaller incision. The exact size varies, but it tends to be around three to four inches across the center of the lower abdomen. Like with the standard procedure, the incision is below the panty line so that it remains hidden beneath clothing and undergarments. Patients may compare the scar to a horizontal C-section scar. Though, it is generally lower on the body. Therefore, existing C-sections scars are often removed during any abdominoplasty procedure. Dr. Goldschmidt also removes stretch marks and loose skin in the lower abdominal area.
Benefits Of A Cleveland Mini Tummy Tuck
Following a mini tummy tuck surgery, patients may experience a wealth of benefits. The exact benefits will vary from person to person based on their individual procedure. However, patients can expect possible benefits such as:
- Tighter abdominal muscles
- Smoother abdomen and body contour
- Reveal the true figure after a significant amount of weight loss
- Easier to exercise
- Correct existing ventral hernia and prevent future hernias
- Improve stress urinary incontinence
- Reduce back pain
- Better posture
- Go down an average of one to two clothing sizes
Types Of Tummy Tuck Surgery
Tummy tuck surgery is a highly customizable surgery. Therefore, it is not one-size-fits-all and the procedure is catered to each patient’s needs. For example, a patient’s anatomy and body structure, overall health, medical history, and goals can all impact the right abdominoplasty technique. A qualified plastic surgeon can help patients determine the right method. Beyond the mini tummy tuck, other techniques include:
Full
The full or standard abdominoplasty uses the traditional hip-to-hip incision most associated with the procedure. This is the most common technique because it allows the surgeon full access to the abdominal wall to tighten the muscles. It also allows for the optimal amount of skin and fat removal.
A full tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. Though, it is often performed after patients lose a significant amount of weight that left copious amounts of abdominal skin behind. This also occurs during pregnancy when the stomach stretches and the skin may not fully or ideally retract.
Extended
The extended tummy tuck technique includes the traditional hip-to-hip incision but continues it around the flanks. The exact ending point of the incision may vary from just barely on the hip to completely around it. Dr. Goldschmidt may choose this technique if a patient has extensive extra skin that could not be adequately removed using the standard tummy tuck procedure.
Otherwise, the procedure is largely the same. It will still remove extra skin and fat while also correcting muscle separation. Good candidates are patients who have extra skin that extends onto or around the hip area.
Reverse
While rare, extra skin can collect at the top of the abdomen. For women, this is just below the breasts and for men, it is around where the abdominal muscles start. To remove this extra skin, Dr. Goldschmidt may recommend a reverse tummy tuck. As the name suggests, it is a tummy tuck with an incision in the upper abdomen.
Common reasons that extra skin collects at the top of the abdomen versus the lower abdomen can have something to do with the breasts or chest. For example, the incision for a reverse tummy tuck is similar to a breast lift incision. Saggy breasts can cause the skin below them to also sag. Men with gynecomastia or who have lost a lot of weight may also see this occur.
Fleur-de-lis
The most extensive version of tummy tuck surgery—the fleur-de-lis tummy tuck—uses the standard horizontal incision. Then, a vertical incision up the abdomen finishes off the procedure. This turns off many patients because it can be extremely difficult or impossible to hide a vertical scar all the time. Patients who qualify for a fleur-de-lis procedure often have a large amount of extra skin. The scarring from this procedure is worth the benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Surgery
Does A Mini Tummy Tuck Include The Belly Button?
No, a mini tummy tuck—unlike all other versions of the procedure—does not reposition or alter the belly button. This is because during a mini abdominoplasty only a small amount of skin below the belly button is removed. If the procedure extends above the belly button, it is then a standard tummy tuck.
Do You Need Drains With Mini Tummy Tuck?
Sometimes, it largely depends on individual aspects of the patient and procedure. A Cleveland mini tummy tuck is less likely to require drains than larger versions of the procedure.
What Is The Cost Of A Mini Tummy Tuck In Cleveland?
The exact cost of a Cleveland mini tummy tuck will range depending on the specifics of the procedure. Adding liposuction or complexities may increase the cost. After a consultation with Dr. Goldschmidt at The Cosmetic Surgery Center, patients will receive a personalized price quote.
The Best Mini Tummy Tuck In Cleveland With Dr. Goldschmidt
Dr. Matt Goldschmidt at The Cosmetic Surgery Center performs high-quality plastic surgery of the face, breasts, and body. His career has seen him perform thousands of surgeries and earn two board certifications. Patients frequently note Dr. Goldschmidt’s warm demeanor and true compassion for every patient’s journey.
For more information about Mini Tummy Tuck Cleveland & Columbus or to schedule your Mini Tummy Tuck Cleveland & Columbus consultation with Dr. Matt Goldschmidt, please call (216) 264-8100.