Your Guide to the Mini Tummy Tuck

Jun 4, 2022

Some patients suffer from a ‘pooch’ of stubborn fat confined to the lower abdominal areas. While exercise and diet may help achieve the firmer and flatter abdominal appearance you desire, these do not always work. A mini tummy tuck is the least invasive type of abdominoplasty that can help address this type of aesthetic concern. This procedure technique is becoming increasingly popular because it can help you achieve your goals without going all the way (as would be the case with a full tummy tuck). Dr. Tessler offers this procedure for both men and women in Scottsdale, Gilbert, Phoenix, and surrounding Arizona areas.

Am I a candidate for a mini-abdominoplasty?

A mini tummy tuck – also referred to as partial abdominoplasty – focuses on removing minimal amounts of excess tissue from the lower abdominal area. You may be an ideal candidate for this cosmetic procedure if:

  • You in physically and emotionally healthy
  • You have stubborn subcutaneous fat restricted to the area below the navel
  • You have realistic expectations about the outcome of this procedure

Mini tummy tuck procedure

During your mini tummy tuck procedure in Phoenix AZ, Dr. Tessler will create a horizontal incision about 4 – 8 inches long in the lower abdomen area. This is about the same length as a C-section scar. The surgeon will then focus on removing excess skin and tissue from the lower abdomen area in order to get rid of the pooch. In some cases, liposuction may be performed in order to get rid of stubborn fat. The belly button isn’t touched during a mini tummy tuck, as would be the case with a full tummy tuck. This procedure takes about 1 – 3 hours to complete, after which you’ll be observed for a while before you are allowed to go home for recovery.

Recovery after a mini tummy tuck

Following your partial abdominoplasty in Texas, you’ll need to have someone drive you home for recovery. Your abdomen will be wrapped in a special binder to help reduce swelling and shape the results of the surgery. A draining tube may be inserted over the first one week to get rid of excess fluid from the treatment area. Dr. Tessler recommends that you take light walks as soon as you are able to promote proper blood circulation. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common, especially during the first week of recovery. The surgeon’s office will prescribe painkillers to improve your comfort along with antibiotics to prevent an infection. You should desist from any heavy lifting or strenuous activities until after you are fully recovered. Most of Dr. Tessler’s patients are able to return to routine work within 2 – 3 weeks. The surgeon’s office will be available throughout the recovery duration to answer your questions and provide the support you need.

Results of a mini tummy tuck

Scarring is one of the most common concerns patients have after a partial abdominoplasty procedure. Once the incision is fully healed, the area assumes a slightly pink or tan color. This, however, will gradually fade over the next 12 – 18 months. The surgeon recommends some of the latest scar management products to make sure that scars become less noticeable over time. While most of the swelling is resolved over the first few months, it is not uncommon for patients to experience minor swelling for up to a year. Following your mini tummy tuck, you should notice that the abdominal area becomes reshaped and tightened to result in an overall slimmer appearance. You should be able to wear clothing that fits better and feels more confident in your own body. It is important to note that while a mini tummy tuck is a long-lasting procedure, changes such as weight gain can have an adverse impact on the outcome of your procedure. Dr. Tessler recommends that you adopt a healthy lifestyle with dieting and exercise in order to get the most out of this cosmetic treatment.

Cost of a mini tummy tuck in Phoenix Az

Health insurers typically do not pay for partial abdominoplasty and other procedures that are considered to be cosmetic in nature. The cost of this treatment will vary greatly from one patient to the other, depending on the extent of the procedure. Many of Dr. Tessler’s partial abdominoplasty patients can expect to pay anywhere between $3,500 and $8,000 depending on the specifics of their surgery. During your initial consultation visit to Dr. Tessler’s office, the surgeon’s team will provide an individualized cost estimate so you can make arrangements for financing.

How to prepare for a mini tummy tuck

If you’re planning to have a mini tummy tuck any time soon, thorough preparation can help ensure a successful procedure outcome and smooth recovery. Dr. Tessler recommends that candidates for this procedure quit smoking at least 4 weeks before and after their surgery. The surgeon also recommends that you limit alcohol intake a few days from the procedure, and refrain from taking certain medication and supplements. This is important because they could increase the risk of excessive bleeding during the surgery. Ordering your recovery supplies ahead of time can also help ensure a smoother recovery.