Thinking about a mini tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

I previously posted about the desire to possibly have a tummy tuck. I am 36 5'8, 156lbs and 20% body fat. I had a c section 13 years ago and have had trouble getting my six pack back despite hiit, strength, circuit and weight training 5 days a week along with a diet that excludes beef, pork, fried foods, breads and pastas and dairy. I am reposting my question because 2 of the pictures that i provided showed me in a very bloated state and want to get/give the most realistic explanation possible.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Mini-abdominoplasty tightens the lower abdominal wall muscles and removes redundant skin below the umbilicus, belly button, only. The shortest scar technique leaves a scar at the pubic hair line. Liposuction may be used alone or in conjunction with a tummy tuck to benefit selected patients
‘Mini” tummy tucks can benefit patients who have a small amount of excess skin and fat or protruding of the lower abdomen. This operation may be done under local anesthesia with sedation, on an outpatient basis. Liposuction may be used alone or in conjunction with a tummy tuck to benefit selected patients.
‘Mini” tummy tucks can benefit patients who have a small amount of excess skin and fat or protruding of the lower abdomen (below the belly button). This operation may be done under local anesthesia with sedation, on an outpatient basis. Liposuction may be used alone or in conjunction with a tummy tuck to benefit selected patients.
Far more important than deciding if a mini tummy tuck is for you is the skill and experience of your plastic surgeon. Choose your surgeon rather than the technique and let him explain why one technique may be better than another and if you need a tummy tuck. Many board certified plastic surgeons provide a free first time consult and you should take advantage of that!
See the below link on some suggestions on finding the most qualified Plastic Surgeon for you!
I have also attached a video for a possible Tummy Tuck Candidate.

Robert Heck, MD, FACS · Answer

I don't think a mini TT would give you the best outcome. You appear as if a full TT is prudent. Make sure you seek a board certified plastic surgeon in your area when you're ready to get an educated opinion on your options. Best of Luck!

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

There are several variations on tummy tuck procedures to consider, not just mini or full. For example, a mini with umbilical float allows for full muscle repair. Fat reduction with or without lipo is also not dependent on which type of tummy tuck you have.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Looks like you would be a better candidate for a full tummy tuck with muscle reconstruction for a flatter abdomen, please consult with a board certified PS. Good luck!

Reza Rod, MD · Answer

From only looking at your photos and not performing a physical exam, I believe you would get the best results from a full tummy tuck, not a mini tuck. You mentioned having trouble getting your six pack back, a mini tummy tuck will not address this. Your abdominal muscles need to be brought back together. They separate during pregnancy. No matter how many crunches you do, the connective tissue cannot bring them back to where they were, because it has been stretched.A full tummy tuck will address your six pack, flatten out the tummy and get the best result. Always see a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.Good luck!

Nathan Eberle, MD, DDS, FACS · Answer

From your photos it appears you have fullness both above and below your BB. This would make you a good candidate for a full lipo-abdominoplasty, not a mini TT with lipo. If you were to have a mini with only lipo above the BB you would likely have a limited result (less downtime post-op is the upside), but a limited result. good luck. Find a properly trained plastic surgeon and they can discuss this with you further during an in-office consultation.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.

From your photos, you appear to be an excellent candidate for Vaser Hi definition liposculpture with fat grafting to the buttocks.  You should get a great result from liposculpture, giving you a more contoured and hourglass shape with better projection to your buttocks.

I have done many body contouring procedures and specialize in Vaser Hi Definition liposculpture. Vaser Hi Definition body sculpting requires extensive specialized training. I am one of few surgeons in the United States that was personally trained by Dr. Alfredo Hoyos, the surgeon that developed this technique.

Vaser Hi Definition liposuction uses the concepts of negative and positive spaces in relation to the underlying bony and muscle anatomy to define areas such as your six pack and create an athletic looking physique.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Director-Beverly Hills Breast and Body Institute

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your
photograph, you are a great candidate for a tummy tuck with liposuction. 
This can be done through a low and short incision, all completely below the
bikini line.  Your muscles can also be
plicated resulting in a flat abdomen.  Make sure you
specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have
had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  The
most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I
recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic
surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Just based on your photos, I think liposuction of the abdomen and flanks might do much better with much less down time and scarring.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Based on the submitted photos and description you appear to be a better candidate for a standard (full) tummy tuck.  This will remove excess subcutaneous fat and skin as well as address abdominal wall laxity that is common after pregnancy.  You can add liposuction for contouring if desired.  The result will be a flatter, tighter tummy.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Thinking about a mini tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answers (14)

More Mini Tummy Tuck Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (14)

More Mini Tummy Tuck Questions

Will a Mini Tummy tuck do?

Mini Tummy Tuck with no Lipo?

I have a seroma after a car accident, and I'm 2 weeks post tummy tuck. What can I do?

How long after lipo can you have a mini tummy tuck?

What is the average cost of a mini tummy tuck in Arkansas?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS