Do I need a full TT or can I get away with a mini? (Photos)

If you are not planning future pregnancies, I recommend abdominoplasty with mesh reinforcement. The mesh creates a more hourglass figure by compressing the abdominal wall resulting in early satiety and helps maintain a reduced weight.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thank you for your question and photos! A tummy tuck will address excess skin & repair of the abdominal muscle. The abdominal wall can be weakened after pregnancy and (or) significant weight gain & loss. By repairing the muscle, not only does the appearance of your abdominal area improve, but your core strength as well. The repair of the muscle will cinch your waist like an inner corset, which will accentuate your curves. Liposuction will remove excess fat from unwanted areas with some skin retraction. Your expectations and health will dictate the best procedure(s) for you. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals. Best of luck!

Dhaval Patel MD
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Chicago
South Barrington
Oakbrook
Orland Park

I do not feel like mini tummy tucks address excess skin above the belly button very well. For that reason (among others), I'd recommend the full tuck. It is important to discuss goals and expectations with your surgeon as that can potentially change the surgical plan.

It is highly unlikely that you would be happy with the outcome from a mini tummy tuck. A standard procedure would be recommended in your case.

You appear to have some loose skin above your belly button, which would indicate that a full tummy tuck is most likely more suitable. A mini would only target the area below your belly button, leaving the loose skin above.

A mini tummy tuck only works when the loose skin is limited to the lower abdomen. Based on your photos, you will clearly get the best result with a full tummy tuck.

Thank you for the question! It is best to be seen in person, but based on your photos alone, you appear to be a candidate for a tummy tuck, I do not believe a mini-tuck would give you the results you are looking for. A traditional tummy tuck will remove the excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightens the muscle and fascia of the abdominal wall creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer. Liposuction on the flanks is often done with a tummy tuck to help achieve an hour glass figure. I would consult with a plastic surgeon in person so they may best explain the procedures that will help you achieve the aesthetic results you desire. Good luck!

Kamran Azad MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

You absolutely need a full tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck will do very little fir your and you will be disappointed with the result. Don't be tempted by a shortcut

Lax skin around the belly button responds best to a full tummy tuck. This will tighten the entire abdomen including the muscle underneath.

A mini tummy tuck does less and gives lesser results.

​An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to further discuss your best options and expectations.

I suggest a full tummy tuck as there seems to be a large amount of excess skin with stretch marks. This would give you the best result.