Can I get a mini tummy tuck? Or do I need another full tummy tuck? (photos)

Question

I had a baby after having a tummy tuck done. I want to know if i am a candidate for a Mini TT or will i need to redo the whole extended TT?

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

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

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

This is difficult without being able to fully examine  you in person. You have done an excellent job of showing the areas of skin that seem to be bothering you. Frequently, patients can get a great result with liposuction alone after a previous tuck. This might be an acceptable option depending on your goals.

Aftab Siddiqui, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

You should see a plastic surgeon to examine the tummy. IF there is still laxity of skin above the belly button and there is muscle laxity, you will benefit from a full tummy tuck revision. If you are only concerned with excess skin below the belly button, you might consider a mini tummy tuck

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You have too much excess skin above your umbilicus. You will need a full tummy tuck revision. I would not recommend this if you are considering future pregnancies. 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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You can either have a mini or a full. It depends on how much looseness is in the upper abdomen and it's hard to tell from the photos

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

You have developed a significant degree of saggy skin on your abdomen, it looks protruding because of your muscle being loose also. Plus the incision appears to be very high and the position of the belly button must be fixed a little above. 
So all above make you a perfect candidate for a Full Tummy Tuck with muscle repair, scar revision, belly button revision.
Be encouraged!!!
Dr. Cárdenas

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Your photos are wanting, but it is clear you have loss of skin elasticity and relative excess. This time around, find a surgeon who's willing to lower your scar and not worry about a small vertical incision. The long scar should not be so close to your belly button.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs. Unfortunately it is difficult to see much in your pictures and I would schedule a series of in-person examinations with local plastic surgeons to get the best advice.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Onaquesttofixthebutt,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. 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

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your frustrations but it does appear that you have options.
Your photos demonstrate that you may not have enough redundant skin for a full repeat tummy tuck, however liposuction in combination with a mini tummy tuck appears to be your best option. Redundant skin below your belly button can be removed and the combination with liposuction of your upper and lower abdomen should provide a nice result. Come see me or another board-certified plastic surgeon in our area to confirm my address.