Am I a good candidate for a full or mini tummy tuck?

After having 4 children and from yo yo dieting, my stomach is a mess. I have lots of stretch marks and lower abdominal loose skin. I have been to 2 different surgeons, one recommended a full tummy tuck and the other (which quoted me more) stated that a full tummy tuck would be too invasive and that a mini tummy tuck would be good for me.

Now my concern is the stretch marks and my ab muscles underneath.

The second surgeon stated that i have a pretty strong core so i wouldn't need tightening of the abs. That is hard to believe after having 4 kids. So, am I a candidate for a full tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck?

Am I a good candidate for a full or mini tummy tuck?
Sort: Date | Helpful
13 answers to “Am I a good candidate for a full or...”

A: Full tummy tuck is the way to go

J. Vicente P. Poblete, MD

Looking at the picture, it appears that a standard abdominoplasty (full tuck) may be a better option vs. that of a mini-tuck. Another option would be a full tummy tuck wherein the umbilicus (belly button) is "floated" wherein it is detached, pulled down with the rest of the skin and then re-attached.... more

A: Full abdominoplasty (TT) with muscle plication best addresses these concerns

David N. Hing, MD

A mini abdominoplasty would not remove as many of your stretch marks as a full abdominoplasty would. I would recommend this instead of a mini. With four children, I would advise a vertical muscle plication of the inner edges of the rectus (sit-up) muscles as part of the full abdominoplasty. I am sure you... more

A: Stretch marks are high

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Peach, Since the stretch marks are so high on your abdomen and they are your biggest concern, you really need the full monte. A mini tummy tuck would tighten the stretch marks, but they would still be present.  Good luck!

A: It depends on your goals.

York Jay Yates, MD

The answer to this question depends on your goals, finances and recovery. If the stretch marks and appearance of your umbilicus bother you significantly, these will be best addressed with a full abdominoplasty.  This generally costs more from both a recovery and expense standpoint.  You will be... more

A: You need a Full TT

David Shafer, MD

Based on your picture, you are an excellent candidate for a full TT. You have loose skin and severe stretch marks. Nothing besides a full TT will correct both of these problems -- you will see a correction of >90% of your stretch marks and have a nice flat abdomen. Good luck with your surgery.

A: Only a full abdominoplasty will help you.

George J. Beraka, MD

To peachgirl1, Hi!   A mini tummy tuck only deals with the lower stomach.  In your picture, you have loose skin and stretch marks at least a couple of inches ABOVE  your belly button. I have seen several women like you who had a mini tummy tuck and later had to have the full operation.

A: Full vs. mini TT

Brent Moelleken, MD

Even though you are in excellent physical condition, there is considerable loose skin from childbirth.  Your would benefit best from a full tummy tuck with deep plication of the fascia. A mini tuck would likely leave you disappointed.  Although there are now many new types of mini-tucks available now... more

A: Go with the Full Tummy Tuck

Michael A. Bogdan, MD

A mini tummy tuck only removes a small amount of skin, and is generally done when just the muscles need to be tightened. Looking at the photo you provided, I would suggest a "full" or "standard" tummy tuck. I would expect that almost all of the stretch marks from your belly button down... more

A: HLT

Robert M. Freund, MD

A high Lateral tension abdomenoplasty will give a great result and maximize the hourglass shape of your body. It also has better scarring in my hands and give a nicer shaped umbilicus.

A: I agree that a full tummy tuck is the way to go

William B. Rosenblatt, MD

I highly doubt that a mini tummy tuck will give you the desired result. Don't opt for an inadequate surgical procedure. It looks as if you need to have a lot of skin removed and the muscles tightened. If you have love handles - then a small lipo can be done at the same time.

More answers to Am I a good candidate for a full or mini tummy tuck?
Orange County - Full tummy tuck may be the answer
Seattle - You would be better with a full tummy tuck
Post your question

Tummy tuck before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.