The problem
Please read the abdominoplasty section first.
In most people a full tummy tuck is advised as it deals with areas above AND below the belly button, as well as tightening muscles.
Some people have excess skin below the belly button only.
The solution
In such a situation, a mini-tummy tuck may be appropriate.
A mini-tummy tuck deals with only the skin and fat below the belly button and therefore does not usually involve re-siting of the belly button.
How is a tummy tuck performed
A mini tummy tuck is performed with you asleep under general anaesthetic.
It usually uses incisions shorter than the full tummy tuck, hidden below your bikini line.
Excess belly skin and fat is removed, and the abdominal muscles are tightened if required to flatten the belly.
Drains are not always used as I use modern quilting suture techniques.
Sometimes drains are required however.
The skin will be stitched with dissolving sutures.
What is not corrected with a tummy tuck.
Tummy tucks deal mostly with the front of your belly.
It does not reduce love handles and for this you will need liposuction which can be done at the same time. This is called a lipoabdominoplasty.
Simple tummy tuck also does not change the thickness of your belly fat although it removes the excess. A lipoabdominoplasty is also required if you desire thinning of belly fat.
Further, tummy tuck can also be combined with breast procedures in mummy makeovers or in people that have lost weight.
However, a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure but is good at removing the hanging skin that results from weight loss.
You will need to have a stable weight and have made lifestyle changes to get the best results.
Specifically, mini tummy tuck does not deal with skin, fat or muscle above the belly button and is therefore only appropriate in a small number of patients.
Potential complications
These are described in the tummy tuck/abdominoplasty section but the rate of complications is lower in mini tuck as it is a much smaller operation than the full tuck.
Downtime and recovery
A simple tummy tuck takes about 1-2 hours to perform.
It is a daycase procedure and your recovery timeline is specific to the amount of skin removal done.
Initial swelling and bruising will subside within the first week but overall, it might be 3-6 months before the full result becomes apparent.
Week 1 is all about healing and therefore being at home, stress free to reduce blood pressure, with good nutrition and support from loved ones is encouraged.
Stitches will usually be removed at the hospital after 1 week.
In week 2 you can begin light tasks around the home, and you’ll be able to drive again at the end of week 2.
You’re advised to stay off work until after week 3 unless your job can be done at home relatively stress free.
Lifting, such as a small child after 4 weeks is usually appropriate.
Heavy lifting and gym are usually allowed after 6 weeks.
These guidelines are meant to reduce risks of complications, so it is crucial to follow them.
They are also general, and your particular regimen will be discussed with you.
You will also have access to my team to guide you through.
Do I qualify for tummy tuck?
The consultation is the crucial point at which I will gather your medical history perform a comprehensive body analysis and discuss your suitability for tummy tuck.
We will also have a detailed discussion of the points discussed above to ensure that you are fully informed and that I am the appropriate surgeon for your specific needs.
I will still be honest with you if I feel your needs are not ones I can meet and help suggesting other surgeons who may be able to offer you a better result.
What to do next
If considering tummy tuck surgery, get in touch using the contact forms below and I’d be delighted to help you.