If you have excess fat and skin in the tummy area that you’d like to get rid of, abdominoplasty, aka a tummy tuck, can help. The surgery removes extra skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightens the muscles in that area too. Two different types of abdominoplasty are regularly performed by surgeons. A mini tummy tuck is a shorter and less involved version of the traditional tummy tuck surgery.

Learn more about each type of surgery so that you can make the right choice.

Target Areas

A significant difference between a traditional tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck is the size of the area treated and the amount of skin and fat removed. For example, a mini tummy tuck only focuses on the lower abdomen below the belly button, without any incisions around the belly button. A full tummy tuck at Dr Quinn Perth removes as much abdominal skin and fat as possible, by relocating the belly button and tightening the abdominal muscles as well.

The amount of fat and excess skin you have influences whether a mini or traditional tummy tuck is best for you. If you have just a small amount of loose skin or a bit of unwanted fat, a mini surgery is most likely a better choice.

Mini Tummy Tuck Recovery

The recovery process after a mini tummy tuck is often much shorter than recovery after a traditional surgery. You’ll still want to take about a week off from work and should take it easy for a few weeks after your surgery. Your surgeon will also most likely recommend that you wear a compression or control garment for a few weeks to help shape the tummy area and to control swelling.

While it’s difficult to stand up straight right after a full tummy tuck, you’ll be able to extend to your full height almost immediately after a mini surgery.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Admittedly, the recovery after a traditional tummy tuck can be long. Usually, you’ll need to take between a week or two off from work. You should expect discomfort in your abdominal area after the surgery. Patients typically experience swelling, bruising, a bit of pain, and difficulty standing up because it is hard to extend the tightened abdominal area at first. However, within a week of surgery, many of those symptoms subside substantially.

Scarring After the Surgery

Scarring is always a concern after any surgery. The truth is that both a traditional and a mini tummy tuck require an incision and will leave some scarring. But in both cases, the scars can usually be easily concealed by your underwear, as they are located below the bikini line. The location of the scar from either type of surgery means you can wear a swimsuit and clothing without worrying that it will show.

Candidates for a Mini Tummy Tuck

Your health, your plans for the future and the size of your tummy pooch all determine if you’re a good candidate for a mini tummy tuck or not. It’s crucial that you be in good health before the surgery. That means no uncontrolled medical conditions. It also means not smoking for several weeks before and after surgery.

Many women consider a mini tummy tuck after they’ve had kids. If you’re finished having children, the surgery might be right for you.