Would a mini tummy tuck be helpful for the loose skin on my stomach? How is it different from a regular tummy tuck? (Photo)

Thank you so much for your question! Deciding between a Mini Tummy Tuck and a Full Tummy Tuck can be a challenge. The answer really depends on what you need. A mini tummy tuck can be a great option for mild to moderate loose skin and excess tissue below the belly button. It is a less invasive procedure than a full tummy tuck, and typically involves a shorter incision for a smaller scar, no repositioning of the belly button, and a quicker recovery time. A full tummy tuck, on the other hand, addresses loose skin, muscle separation, and excess fat both above and below the belly button. It’s ideal for those with more significant skin laxity or abdominal wall concerns, and provides repositioning of the belly button. The incision is typically longer, depending on the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed. Based on the photo you shared, it looks like the primary area of concern is above the belly button. Since a Mini Tummy Tuck only addresses the area below the belly button, a Full Tummy Tuck would likely be the better option, out of the two,to help you achieve the results you're looking for. However, with such a minor amount of excess skin, you may not need a Tummy Tuck at all. For Minor Skin Tightening, Renuvion may be a better option. Renuvion is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a combination of radiofrequency (RF) energy and helium plasma to contract and tighten loose or sagging skin. Additionally, a non-surgical approach like Morpheus 8 to tighten skin or Cooltone to enhance the muscle tone of the abdomen might achieve the result you desire without surgical recovery or downtime. Of course, the best way to determine the right approach for you is with a consultation to discuss your goals and options.

A full tummy tuck typically treats two problems.
The first is muscle separation from previous pregnancy and the second is abdominal skin laxity of both upper and lower abdomen.
A mini tummy tuck primarily treats, moderate abdominal skin laxity of the lower abdomen only.
Most women who have skin black city, but the lower abdomen also do so of the upper abdomen, especially if it’s pregnancy related.
A full tummy tuck also differs in that it requires a scar around the belly button with a potentially unnatural looking belly button after(depends on who does the procedure).
If you’re abdominal wall bulges from previous pregnancies, (muscle separation)and you have skin laxity of your upper abdomen, then a full tummy tuck is the better procedure.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD