Excess fat on the lower abdomen can negatively affect the contours of the body, making a person look out of shape. Abdominal fat can be a result of multiple factors, including lifestyle choices, genetics, certain medical conditions, medications, and multiple pregnancies.

People often have trouble getting rid of excess abdominal fat without medical intervention. Thanks to a mini tummy tuck, contouring the lower abdomen has become much easier.

What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also called an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery used to make the abdomen thinner and firmer. It flattens the abdomen by removing the accumulated fat and excess skin and by tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall.

There are two main types of abdominoplasty. The traditional type, complete abdominoplasty, includes an incision from one hipbone to another, another incision around the bellybutton, removal of excess tissue, and tightening of the muscles. The bellybutton is repositioned during this process.

The second type is called partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini tummy tuck. This surgery removes excess fat and loose skin from the lower abdomen instead of the whole abdomen. It requires no incisions around the bellybutton and is done with a shorter horizontal incision compared to traditional abdominoplasty.

The purpose of a mini tummy tuck is to contour the lower abdomen and make it aesthetically pleasing.

The Mini Tummy-Tuck Consultation

Dr. Gikas will first determine whether the patient is a suitable candidate for the mini tummy-tuck procedure during a consultation. The patient’s medical history, present medical condition, medications, and allergies are reviewed before Dr. Gikas conducts a physical examination.

The patient’s aesthetic goals are discussed, and the patient can look at before-and-after photos. Dr. Gikas will frame a treatment plan based on the physical examination and the expectations of the patient.

Ideal Candidates for a Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck is for anyone who:
• Has a smaller amount of excess skin and fat hanging below the bellybutton
• Has a protruding lower abdomen even after losing weight with exercise and diet
• Is at least six months post-partum
• Has loose skin hanging from the belly after losing a significant amount of weight
• Does not smoke or take drugs
• Does not take blood thinners or have any bleeding problems

A mini tummy-tuck surgery is most suitable for women who have a sagging lower abdomen with stretch marks after pregnancy. It is not ideal if the patient wants to get pregnant in the near future.

The Procedure

A mini tummy tuck takes about one to three hours and is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.

During the surgery, Dr. Gikas makes the incision to gain access to the underlying tissues. The abdominal muscles are tightened before trimming away excess skin. Liposuction may be combined with the surgery to remove any excess fat and sculpt the tummy into a desired shape. The remaining skin is stitched in place.

Get Started with Your Mini Tummy Tuck

Dr. Elias Gikas, a board-certified plastic surgeon with a wealth of experience, has performed numerous mini tummy tucks to great success. To schedule your consultation and get started, contact us today and set up your appointment.