Days One to Three
Plenty of time in bed during the first few days. A compression garment is worn from the start to support the abdominal tissues. Common side effects include discomfort, soreness, bruising, and swelling.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Mini TummyTuck and PartialAbdominoplasty
with Dr. Nathan Eberle
Focused on the lower abdomen below the belly button. A smaller incision, shorter procedure, and quicker recovery than a full tummy tuck, designed to flatten and tighten the area that won’t respond to diet and exercise.
Overview
What is a mini tummy tuck?
The mini tummy tuck surgery is designed to sculpt the abdomen, removing excess skin and fat and leaving the area looking smoother and more toned. The technique, also known as partial abdominoplasty, is performed by double board-certified plastic surgeon Nathan Eberle, M.D., D.D.S., F.A.C.S. at Weston Center for Plastic Surgery and is popular among Fort Lauderdale and Broward County patients who wish their stomach was flatter and more defined.
A mini-abdominoplasty tightens loose skin on the lower abdomen between the area of the belly button and the pubic region. In comparison to a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck involves a much smaller incision across the lower abdomen while the region of the belly button is left intact. A mini tummy tuck does not remove fat from the upper abdomen the way a regular tummy tuck does.
At a Glance
Mini vs full tummy tuck.
The biggest advantage of the mini tummy tuck is the smaller scar compared to a regular tummy tuck. Less rigorous, less complex, and a quicker recovery.
Specification
Mini Tummy Tuck
Full Tummy Tuck
Incision
Smaller, lower across the abdomen
Longer, full lower abdominal
Treated Area
Below the belly button only
Above and below the belly button
Belly Button
Left intact, may be repositioned
Repositioned, sometimes recreated
Surgery Time
One to two hours
Two to three and a half hours
Recovery
Back to work in one to two weeks
Back to work in two to three weeks
Benefits
Benefits of a Mini Tummy Tuck
The mini tummy tuck restores a flat belly and a tight, firm contour of the lower abdomen, yielding a firmer-looking appearance and boosting self-confidence and self-esteem.
The procedure can be done with or without muscle tightening of the lower abdomen, depending on whether the abdominal muscles have separated.
Candidacy
Is a Mini Tummy Tuck Right for Me?
Mini tummy tucks were created for people who have excess skin or fat located below their belly button rather than above it. This type of partial abdominoplasty is commonly performed on women who have given birth. Men and women who have lost a significant amount of weight may also be good candidates. Ideal candidates are at a stable weight, in good general health, and are not planning to become pregnant or lose a significant amount of weight in the near future.
The Procedure
How Involved Is the Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure?
Because it involves the abdominal area, a mini tummy tuck is a fairly involved form of plastic surgery, though less involved than a full abdominoplasty. Compared to the full tummy tuck, it requires shorter incisions, a shorter surgical process, and a shorter recovery period. It is performed under general anesthesia and takes one to two hours.
An incision is made in the lower part of the abdomen, usually low enough to be covered by underwear or a bathing suit. Excess skin and fat below the belly button are trimmed and removed. The natural tissues are sculpted to provide a smoother, younger-looking contour.
The muscles may be tightened, particularly when the surgery is performed on a woman who has given birth, as abdominal muscles often separate during pregnancy. The belly button may be repositioned during the procedure. Sutures close the incisions.
Anesthesia
General
Time
One to two hours
Incision
Low on the abdomen, hidden by underwear or a bathing suit
Muscle Repair
Optional plication of the lower abdominal wall
Recovery
How Long Is the Recovery After a Mini Tummy Tuck?
Recovery is shorter than for a full tummy tuck, with most patients taking one to two weeks away from work.
Three Phases
Weeks One to Two
Most patients take one to two weeks away from work, gradually returning to normal activity levels.
Through Six Weeks
Compression garment is worn for up to six weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are avoided for at least six weeks.
Pricing
How Much Does a Mini Tummy Tuck Cost?
The mini tummy tuck is a less expensive option for patients considering a full abdominoplasty but who wish to focus on excess tissue located below the belly button. Financing is available.
Next Steps
What Should I Do Next?
If you live in Fort Lauderdale or Broward County and are looking for a way to sculpt your lower abdomen, contact double board-certified plastic surgeon Nathan Eberle, M.D., D.D.S., F.A.C.S. at Weston Center for Plastic Surgery for a consultation.
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