Having a tummy tuck can be too invasive and complicated for people who have less work that needs done or less significant needs when it comes to plastic surgery. Cosmetic surgeons have developed another method of surgery that is less invasive and often leaves less scarring than traditional tummy tucks. The candidates for this procedure will vary, but it is an option for anyone who does not feel that a major procedure is necessary for their situation. Consulting with your doctor will help to determine what is right for you.
A mini tummy tuck, also known as a partial abdominoplasty, is designed for those who only have a minimal amount of skin that needs removed or tightened. The best candidates will have a slim abdomen or a less protruding muscle wall and require very little actual work to be done on the area. A mini procedure is often much less invasive, although it can still be performed under general anesthesia. The process is usually done with a local anesthetic and sedation, though, making it less risky for patients who might have complications due to anesthesia.
There is a smaller incision made with a mini tummy tuck, and the navel does not usually require repositioning with this basic procedure. Liposuction can be a part of this procedure for sculpting purposes, but will not be required. This is something that every patient should discuss with their doctor. To ensure that you get the right surgery for your needs, consulting with a surgeon about the desired look that you want and the body that you are working with will be essential. Then you can work together to design a plan that suits your goals and is the least invasive. This may end up being a partial abdominoplasty, or you might end up needing something more. Only you can decide, based on the advice and recommendation of your doctor.
Mini tummy tuck surgery is also easier to recover from than a full blown tummy tuck. The small incision and local anesthetic allow most patients to be released from the hospital within just a few hours of the surgery. The recovery time mimics that of liposuction, because the incisions and procedures are similar in size and invasiveness. Many patients will experience pain after the procedure, but this is managed with over the counter medications. A few days of rest is all that is required after this surgery, but those who have the procedure should refrain from overexerting themselves for a few weeks in most cases.
A traditional tummy tuck averages between $5,000 and $9,000 to have performed, while a mini tummy tuck might be up to 50% less because it is a smaller version of that same procedure. Therefore, you should expect to spend anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000 on a mini tuck. However, each surgeon and their costs will vary, so you should find out what you will expect to pay at your initial consultation. A mini tuck is not always the right option for everyone, and there are other cosmetic procedures out there, so you need to choose what works best for you after doing the research to see what your options are.