Is a mini tummy tuck sufficient? (Photo)

Question

I am 135 lbs. two previous pregnancies. My normal weight is 115-125. I have some loose skin but it’s not enough for me to want a full tummy tuck with the large scar. Can I get away with a mini tummy tuck or is there another procedure to combat the wrinkled skin?

Luis Suarez, MD · Answer

A video would be preferable to better see the condition of the skin, but for sure the best initial option, and the most limited incision that I would recommend just based off of the pictures would be the traditional tummy tuck which is from hip bone to hip bone in order to successfully remove all the excess skin and Additionally do muscle repair, and when the surgery is done, there’s also pubic lift done when pulling up the skin.

Jairo Ulerio, MD · Answer

“With a mini tummy tuck, you could achieve a very nice result because it can significantly improve the appearance of your abdomen.”

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is difficult to assess your skin quality in the photo provided. A full tummy tuck is recommended if there is skin laxity above the belly button. A mini tummy tuck will only target the area below the belly button.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! By your photos, it looks like you would be a great candidate for an abdominoplasty to get rid of any excess or wrinkled skin. The only difference in a mini vs a full abdominoplasty is how long the incision is. A mini tummy tuck is going to have a smaller incision than a full tummy tuck. Muscle repair, removal of excess skin, and liposuction are all included with both a mini and a full tummy tuck. I recommend scheduling a consult appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon like myself so we can create a surgical plan that is best for you and your goals!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear alirose09,

it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos, it looks like you don't have much loose skin so mini tummy tuck might be a good choice. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

A mini tummy tuck will be an excellent option for you to tighten and smooth the skin between your belly button and the top of your pubic hair. Small areas of fullness on the side could be treated with liposuction. Whether you could get any additional benefit with the energy base systems, which are presently offered which claim tighten the skin, you would have to look into critically. The results of these skin tightening machines tend to be very modest.  Have a detailed consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon so they can give you their best options for your best result.

Rajaie Hazboun, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for posting your question here!My answer will be based on the limited information and photos presented , for a detailed and personalized plan please consult with your surgeon in person.
It is hard for me to weigh in based on this photo, but you don't seem to have much loose skin above your belly button which might put you in the minitummy tuck category. I am not sure if you have much diastasis ( seperation of your muscles ) but if you do then you are more of a candidate for a traditional tummy tuck. That being said , the minituck will have a smaller/shorter scar but it will still be relatively long , your surgeon will plan the scar to excise the excess skin and prevent potential dog ears on the sides of the incision , so in certain situations it might be as long as a traditional tummy tuck , the biggest difference will be that in a traditional tummy tuck the fascia is plicated too bring the muscles together in the middle and the belly button is moved and it addresses excess skin above and below it , while a mini tuck is mostly a skin excision surgery that addresses the skin excess below the belly button.In both cases your surgeon should plan your incision to be low enough to hide in your bikini or underwear .
I hope this helps, best of luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Further photos or an examination is needed to determine the best recommendation for you.  Those  with muscle wall separation and/or loose skin that is limited to below the belly button are candidates for the mini tuck.  If you have loose skin or muscle wall separation above the belly button then a standard tuck would be recommended.  Visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation to learn what is best for you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

It would be better to present a closer view of your abdomen. There are new technologies like Renuvion skin tightening coupled with Morpheus that can help tighten abdomens without lots of loose skin.  Go in for consultation and discuss your options. Even EMSculpt is an option to non-surgically tighten your abdominal muscles.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on only one post a photo in bikini bottom hard to be definitive, but it appears an extended mini tummy tuck is an option with some liposuction. $5000-$8000. Best virtual concert with.