A mini tummy tuck addresses loose skin, stretch marks and excess fat below the belly button.
Also known as a partial abdominoplasty, a mini tummy tuck combines elements of a traditional tummy tuck and liposuction. It is a quick, efficient way to resolve excess fat and skin above the lower abdomen and pubic area.
While a mini tummy tuck is similar to a standard tummy tuck, there are important differences between the two procedures.
A traditional tummy tuck is designed to remove excessive fat situated above and below the belly button, to create a new belly button, and tighten the tummy muscles. Meanwhile, a mini tummy tuck simply involves removing lower abdominal skin. Usually, the tummy muscle (the rectus abdominis) is not repaired with a mini tummy tuck.
This makes a mini tummy tuck less complex and invasive than a full tummy tuck. As a result, a mini tummy tuck boasts a faster recovery time, and it has a significantly lower risk of possible complications.
At SpaMedica, the cost of a mini tummy tuck typically starts at $10,999. However, it is best to discuss the budget and costs during your consultation with Dr. Bell, as costs could vary depending on the severity of concerns and your desired results.
SpaMedica is the best choice if you want a mini tummy tuck in Toronto because of our years of expertise and esteemed team. Our cosmetic surgery centre always puts patients first, and at ease and provides great results with a relaxed atmosphere and accommodating staff.
Dr. Thomas Bell has been practicing cosmetic surgery for over 20 years and either performs or oversees all tummy tuck procedures performed at SpaMedica. To book a consultation and prepare for your mini tummy tuck, contact the SpaMedica team.
Following a mini tummy tuck, it takes approximately 1-3 weeks for bruising and swelling to decrease following the procedure. Oral medication can be used to manage any initial discomfort.
A mini tummy tuck takes approximately 2 hours to perform and boasts a shorter procedure and recovery time from a traditional tummy tuck. Discuss the procedure length with Dr. Bell during your consultation, as it can vary from person to person.
A mini tummy tuck is designed for men and women who are in average to good physical shape but who would still like to remove excess fat and skin from the lower tummy. In many cases, the procedure is performed on persons who want to remove the unsightly skin fold that is present following a C-section.
Ideal mini tummy tuck candidates are:
If you are not a good candidate for a mini tummy tuck procedure, review SpaMedica’s non-surgical procedures or discuss your options with the team during your consultation.
There are many benefits of a mini tummy tuck, especially for those who do not want to consider a traditional tummy tuck.
Less Invasive
A mini tummy tuck is less invasive than its traditional counterpart. Because it’s less invasive, the recovery time is shortened, and there is significantly less scarring. It can be performed comfortably using gentle local anesthesia.
More Economical
A mini tummy tuck is also a less costly option for those who do not require the extensive cosmetic work of a complete abdominoplasty.
More Accessible
A mini tummy tuck procedure is available to a wider group of people, including patients who are not suitable candidates for a full abdominoplasty due to scarring from a previous procedure.
No Repositioning of the Belly Button
The mini tummy tuck is ideal for patients who don’t require additional sculpting above the belly button.
All surgical procedures carry some risks, but Dr. Bell will go over the risks during the consultation and answer any questions you may have.
Pain, Swelling, and Bruising
Pain, swelling, and bruising can often occur after a mini tummy tuck procedure. You will receive medication that reduces discomfort during recovery, and the pain will subside within a few days.
Bleeding, Infection, and Fever
Patients can sometimes (but rarely) experience bleeding, infection, and fever after undergoing a mini tummy tuck. If you have any complications, please contact SpaMedica immediately for treatment.
Anesthesia Complications
You will receive general anesthesia before your mini tummy tuck procedure at SpaMedica. Anesthesia complications, such as nausea and dizziness, may occur if you are prone to these issues. An anesthesiologist will discuss and assess your health records and allergies before your procedure to determine the degree of risk.
There have been many innovative, non-invasive alternatives to a mini tummy tuck or tummy tuck procedures created in the past few years. These options can still reduce stubborn pockets of fat and tone the abdominal area but may not boast the same results as a mini tummy tuck. Some other options include EMSculpt, CoolSculpting, and Evolve – all offered by SpaMedica.
Your mini tummy tuck procedure, performed by the SpaMedica team, will begin with you being put under local anesthesia via IV sedation. To prepare you, your surgeon will determine which type of anesthesia is best for you based on your medical history and any prescriptions you may be taking.
Dr. Bell will make an incision above your pubic bone, allowing him to remove excess fat and loose skin while keeping the scar below the underwear and bathing suit line so you can enjoy optimal results and minimal scarring! Your incision scars will be permanent but hidden and fade over time.
Finally, Dr. Bell will tighten the skin and muscles in the abdominal area before completing the procedure to ensure your changing body appears natural and beautiful as it heals and shows final results.
To prepare for a mini tummy tuck, you will attend a consultation at SpaMedica. Dr. Bell will discuss your general preparation guidelines, including:
Each patient’s preparation guidelines vary, so Dr. Bell and the SpaMedica team will diligently tailor specific instructions for you. This will address any medical concerns, confirm your eligibility, and provide optimal aftercare guidance to promote a swift recovery.
It is normal to experience bruising, swelling, and discomfort after a mini tummy tuck. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, so recovery takes a few weeks but less time than a traditional tummy tuck. Patients normally start feeling better within days and notice the results after 2 weeks.
It will take around 6 weeks to fully recover from your mini tummy tuck. You will feel back to normal around the 2-week mark, but everyone heals at a different rate, so it is best to discuss your aftercare instructions with Dr. Bell during your SpaMedica consultation.