The tummy tuck is a transformative body sculpting surgery for our Naples and Fort Myers-area patients. But the procedure is also known for creating scars and requiring a long recovery period. Because of this, many people are now interested in a new, specialized version of the surgery: the mini tummy tuck.
A mini tummy tuck can remove excess fat and skin, much like with traditional surgery, while only leaving a small scar afterward. But this alternative method isn’t the best choice for every patient. In this blog post, we will outline the benefits a mini tummy tuck can provide, and explain which patients are best suited to this surgery.
How is a mini tummy tuck done?
A mini tummy tuck uses a short incision to tone the area right below the bellybutton. It leaves a scar along the lower abdomen, similar to that made during a c-section. The technique can tighten certain loose muscles and remove excess skin and fatty tissue. It can improve the appearance of bulging abdominal muscles, such as those caused by an umbilical hernia.
Mini tummy tuck vs. traditional tummy tuck
A mini tummy tuck can remove skin and repair muscles along the lower abdomen. As it involves a single incision along the bikini line, it doesn’t require a cut around the bellybutton. Because this surgery is focused only on the lower midsection, it cannot address excess skin or damaged muscles in other areas. It also cannot change the shape of the bellybutton or adjust its position.
A full tummy tuck requires a larger incision but can address more issues. Doctors can remove skin on the overall midsection, repair damaged abdominal muscles, and tone up loose skin.
Who is an ideal tummy tuck candidate?
An ideal mini tummy tuck candidate is someone who only struggles with excess fat and skin directly below the bellybutton and who does not have other tissues that need to be repositioned. Patients should be in good health and have satisfactory skin elasticity. Patients who plan on having children in the future should postpone surgery until after childbirth.
Nonsurgical tummy tuck alternatives
Each patient’s needs are unique to their lifestyle. If you would prefer to avoid surgery, there are nonsurgical tummy tuck alternatives to choose from.
- RF Microneedling with Morpheus8: Helps tighten and tone skin texture. Treatment takes 30 to 90 minutes, and patients can expect around 5 days of mild swelling and redness. Results take 8 weeks to become visible, and they gradually improve over the course of 6 months.
When it comes to toning and slimming your body, there are multiple options. Whether you’re seeking a tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, or a nonsurgical treatment, our team can help create the body you’ve always wanted.
Browse our before-and-after gallery to see example photos from real patients. If you would like to learn more about your body contouring options, request a consultation online or call the office at (239) 262-5662.
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