Shedding the Gut! The Difference Between Full and Mini Tummy Tucks

May 7, 2015
By Tiffany McCormack, MD
The Plastic Surgery Channel

Tummy Tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is a great option when diet and exercise aren’t working to get rid of that excess fat and loose muscle tissue in the mid-section.  But, depending on your skin and muscle laxity, you may want to consider having a mini tummy tuck surgery.

Comparing Full and Mini Tummy Tucks

A full tummy tuck is performed to reconstruct the whole abdomen region, both above and below the belly button. This includes tightening the abdominal muscles as well as the excision of excess skin. Often times, liposuction is usually combined with the procedure to remove stubborn buildups of fat from the targeted treatment area. On the other hand, a mini tummy tuck is considered a less extensive variation of the full abdominoplasty and is typically used when loose abdominal muscles and a minimal amount of excess skin are confined to the lower abdomen below the belly button.  Because the area of treatment is more limited, a smaller incision is utilized for a mini tummy tuck, and the recovery period is slightly shorter.

The Scars that Come After

Scarring is a common worry patients have after any abdominoplasty, not knowing how long it will last and how noticeable they will be.

With a full tummy tuck procedure, any potential scarring can generally be concealed by bathing suits and most underwear varieties. Same goes with a mini tummy tuck, the shorter incision typically employed during the procedure makes it even easier to cover up.

It’s important to remember that if you want to reduce the appearance of scarring after a tummy tuck, make sure to not add any excessive force or tension to your incisions during the healing process.  By resting and limiting strain on your mid-section, your scar should heal nicely and will become less visible.

Weighing Your Options

In the long run, the decision on whether or not you will be needing a full or mini tummy tuck will be based on your consultation with your board certified plastic surgeon.  The final choice will be influenced by your specific needs and cosmetic goals.