Mini Tummy Tuck Technique

When loose skin and excess fat deposits affect the appearance of the midsection, most people consider tummy tuck treatment. However, sometimes excess fat and tissue is limited to the lower stomach area, rather than affecting the entire abdominal section. In these cases, people may be better suited for a mini tummy tuck.

The mini tummy tuck technique targets the lower belly area. This procedure smooths and tightens the lower stomach to improve contours and provide a more toned appearance. Here, plastic surgeon Gregory T. Mesna, who serves the Minneapolis, MN, area, goes over the mini tummy tuck technique, including who may be ideal candidates for this procedure.

Mini Tummy Tuck Candidates

A traditional tummy tuck addresses loose skin and fatty tissues along the entire midsection, from the top of the waist down to the pelvic bone. A mini tummy tuck is more targeted. This procedure treats the area below the belly button. A mini tummy tuck is meant to help those of our Minneapolis patients who have loose or protruding abdominal tissue that creates the appearance of a “pooch.” Often a mini tummy tuck is performed following pregnancy or a C-section.

Ideal mini tummy tuck candidates should meet the following qualifications:

• Good overall health
• Realistic treatment results
• Within 20 to 30 pounds of their ideal weight range
• Good skin elasticity

Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure

The mini tummy tuck technique is not quite as invasive as a traditional tummy tuck because it involves a smaller incision. For a traditional tummy tuck, Dr. Mesna makes an incision that spans from one hip bone to the other, just above the pubic area. During a mini tummy tuck, a short incision is made just below the navel. Through this incision Dr. Mesna is able to remove excess skin and tighten the abdominal muscles. This procedure can be performed with general anesthesia.

Recovery and Results 

Because a mini tummy tuck requires a smaller incision and involves more targeted treatment, the recovery tends to be shorter than that of a traditional tummy tuck. Most people are able to return to work and other routine activities within one to two weeks following the procedure.

During the initial part of mini tummy tuck recovery, it is normal for patients to experience surgical side effects such as bruising, inflammation, and pain. Side effects are often worse the first few days following surgery, and gradually improve from there. Dr. Mesna prescribes pain medication to ease discomfort. Cold compresses and ice packs are also helpful for reducing inflammation and bruising.

Mini tummy tuck results become apparent as inflammation subsides. Within a few weeks of treatment, our Minneapolis patients should notice that the lower stomach is smoother, flatter, and more toned. As long as patients continue to follow a good diet and exercise plan, surgical results should be permanent.

Contact Us

If fatty tissues around the lower stomach are keeping you from achieving your ideal aesthetic goals, you may be a candidate for the mini tummy tuck technique. To learn how Dr. Gregory T. Mesna can customize treatment to meet your specific needs, send us a message online or call (952) 927-4556.