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Also referred to as a partial abdominoplasty, a mini tummy tuck is an operation whereby excess fat and skin is removed from the abdominal area. It usually targets the area below the belly button and above the bikini line. This procedure aims to tighten this part of the body for the appearance of a smoother, flatter stomach.
A mini tummy tuck is different to a standard tummy tuck (complete abdominoplasty) in that it targets a much smaller area. That being said, both procedures involve using similar specialist tools and techniques, including liposuction.
Itâs likely youâll find that a mini tummy tuck costs less than a full tummy tuck due to the fact it is less invasive, however it is still considered a major operation with an extensive recovery period.
A mini tummy tuck provides a typically permanent, effective way to flatten and tighten the lower abdomen. This operation is usually most effective for those who are a good, healthy weight but have extra fat or skin in the stomach area thatâs difficult to get rid of through diet and exercise. This is often referred to as a âpoochâ, and it can develop as a result of weight loss or pregnancy. This type of surgery can improve the appearance of your tummy by taking away unwanted fat and skin, and tightening the stomach muscles.
Itâs important to note that this type of operation may not be suitable for you if you plan on getting pregnant in the future. You may also not be able to have this surgery if you are very overweight, a smoker, have had blood clots in the past, or you have heart disease or diabetes that isnât properly controlled.
During your consultation, you will be able to discuss if this surgery is right for you with one of our surgeons.
Ahead of your surgery, itâs likely your surgeon will explain how you can prepare for the mini tummy tuck. For example, you may be required to undergo a series of blood tests to ensure youâre in good health for the operation.
You may also be advised to stop smoking, limit your intake of alcohol and avoid taking anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements, as these can interfere with your recovery.
You may be encouraged to lose some weight, as this will ensure youâre at the best possible weight for your height to ensure a healthy recovery afterwards.
Mini tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, and it usually takes between one to two hours. You may be asked to wear compression stockings for the operation, and during the recovery period. This is to prevent blood clots from forming in the veins in your legs.
During mini tummy tuck surgery, your surgeon will make a horizontal incision to your lower abdomen, just above your pubic hairline. This cut is usually about four to eight inches long. If you have previously had a C-section, itâs likely this incision will be used, but it may be made longer.
Using specialist equipment and techniques, such as liposuction, your surgeon will remove unwanted fat and skin from the targeted area. The surgeon will also tighten loose muscles before pulling the remaining skin into position and stitching it back into place. In some cases, the surgeon may need to reshape your belly button.
When your anaesthetic wears off and you wake up from your surgery, you will have a dressing over your lower abdomen, and you may have drains coming out of your wound to help remove any fluid.
Your tummy is likely to feel sore after your surgery. You will be given painkillers to relieve any discomfort. While you rest, you may be advised to keep your knees bent so as not to put any pressure or strain on your tummy muscles or stitches.
You can expect to stay in hospital for up to four days following your mini tummy tuck surgery. During this time you will be monitored closely and given aftercare advice from your nurse about how to care for your wound.
Itâs important to know that you will not be able to drive after your operation, so you will need to arrange alternative travel arrangements when youâre ready to go home. Itâs also a good idea to have a relative or friend stay with you for 24 hours.
Generally speaking, it takes around six weeks to recover from this type of surgery. You may find that you need extra help as you move around your home and carry out day-to-day tasks, and itâs likely youâll need to take some time off work too.
In the first few days and weeks following your operation, you will be advised to rest and avoid doing anything that may put pressure or strain on your tummy. You may find it easier to roll onto your side to get out of bed.
You can take over-the-counter painkillers to help ease any discomfort, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Your surgeon may also suggest that you wear a support garment. This usually looks like a corset and can be effective in helping relieve pain and reduce swelling. You may be encouraged to wear this for up to six weeks.
After mini tummy tuck surgery, you will have a curved scar above your pubic area. Your belly button will be in the same place, but it may be a different shape.
As with any type of surgery, there are risks involved if you choose to undergo a mini tummy tuck, including:
You may also notice that your scar changes in colour over time. This is normal, and you should find that it eventually fades and turns into a white line.
However, the procedure does carry risks.
Complications can include:
Your surgeon will discuss potential side effects and complications with you during your consultation. You will also get the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
You can trust Manchester Private Hospital when it comes to mini tummy tuck surgery. Our highly skilled and experienced surgeons, doctors and nurses are dedicated to providing you with the utmost care and respect at every stage of your journey.
During your initial consultation, your surgeon will talk to you about what youâd like to achieve from this surgery, giving you safe, comfortable space to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. We can also provide you with mini tummy tuck price information and a range of finance options.
Arrange your free, no obligation consultation today. Simply get in touch to find out how we can help you.
A mini tummy tuck usually takes between one to two hours. You can expect to stay in hospital for about four days following the procedure so you can be monitored closely. You will also be provided with aftercare advice on how to keep your wound clean.
Diastasis recti occurs when the muscles in the abdominal wall separate, causing the stomach to protrude and create what is sometimes referred to as a âmum tumâ. Diastasis recti can occur above and below the belly button. Since a mini tummy tuck targets the area below the belly button and above the bikini line, this procedure would not be able to solve the problem completely. However, a standard tummy tuck would be able to target the whole area and fix diastasis recti.
A mini tummy tuck can help tighten the tummy muscles and flatten the area below the belly button and above the bikini line.
This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. This means you will be asleep for the duration of the operation and not feel any pain. However, itâs likely you feel some discomfort in the days following your procedure. You can alleviate this discomfort with painkillers.
It takes around six weeks to recover from a mini tummy tuck. You may require extra help as you move around your home in the days following your operation, and itâs likely youâll need to take some time off work.
You will have a small curved scar just above your pubic area as a result of your mini tummy tuck surgery.
You may be encouraged to lose weight ahead of your mini tummy tuck surgery. This is to ensure that youâre at the optimum weight for your height, and it will aid with your recovery too.
The cost of a mini tummy tuck will depend on your individual circumstances. Book your free, no-obligation consultation today to find out more.
Manchester Private Hospital have collaborated with Chrysalis Finance to offer 0% finance for our patients.*
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*Procedure prices are not fixed and may vary as procedure costs are tailored to individual requirements so vary from person to person. You will receive a guide price during your initialâŻeConsultâŻand a fixed price following your surgeon face to face consultation.