Lipo and c-section revision vs. mini TT vs. TT

Hi cra731.
The amount of skin that is removed determines if it is just a scar revision (literally just the scar) or a lower abdomen below the BB skin only removal (some call this a mini tummy tuck)-to do this the surgeon will free the tissue from the muscle wall in order to advance it and remove a larger section (sometimes requires drain placement). Some surgeons do muscle tightening as part of a mini TT. A full TT requires freeing tissue all the way up to the lower rib cage and reshaping or even repositioning the BB. The surgical option for liposuction is for someone who is expected to flatten with fat removal (like deflating a balloon) without any skin excision (or scar revision). Once you know what look would be worth the tradeoffs of scars, length of recovery, etc. talk to a well reputed plastic surgeon and go through the options and expected final results again-these three options are very different. Good luck!-Dr. Doolabh

The correct recommendation depends on the outcome of the physical exam and discussion of the patient's goals. Liposuction and scar revision would be for a patient with good skin elasticity, minimal to no excess skin, no muscle separation and simply a stubborn pocket of fat. A mini tuck is for those who have concerns of excess skin and/or muscle separation of the lower abdomen but not above the belly button. A standard tummy tuck is for those with concerns both above and below the belly button. I've included a video discussing the mini tummy tuck that I hope you find helpful.