A mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure which removes loose skin isolated to the lower abdomen only, to provide a thinner and more toned look. It has a shorter scar than a standard tummy tuck and also avoids the scar which goes around the belly button. A standard tummy tuck focuses on the entire abdominal region. Many patients do not have loose skin isolated to the lower abdomen only and require a standard tummy tuck to achieve their desired look. To see if you are a candidate for a mini tummy tuck, book a complimentary consultation today.

Recovery can be impacted by the type of abdominoplasty as well as the patient’s age, general health and post-surgical care.

Patients typically go home the same day after surgery. Walking is encouraged immediately.

Most patients take 2-4 weeks off of work to recover and avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 6+ weeks, in order to minimize complications and promote the best possible tummy tuck results.

All surgeries have risks, including a tummy tuck, but the surgery is generally regarded as a safe procedure. Potential risks and complications will be discussed during the surgical consultation. The procedure will be performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in a fully accredited surgical facility to promote patient safety.

It varies. Maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle can help tummy tuck results last a lifetime. Weight changes or pregnancies after a tummy tuck procedure can negatively influence the longevity of tummy tuck results.

Patients tend to experience mild to moderate pain or discomfort for the first few days after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medication to help control the pain. It will likely be difficult to bend from the waist or to stand completely straight for extended periods for the first few days.

A vast majority of patients are delighted with their tummy tuck results and think the procedure is worth it. In fact, on RealSelf, the tummy tuck procedure has a 95% “Worth It” rating at the time of writing this article.

Pregnancy after a tummy tuck is generally safe for both the mother and child. Pregnancy and its associated weight gain and abdominal stretching can reintroduce excess or sagging skin. This may require another abdominoplasty procedure to restore a more tightened and contoured appearance to the abdomen. For this reason, it is often recommended to wait until finished having children to have an abdominoplasty performed.

Yes. The standard tummy tuck surgery will leave a scar near the bikini line which is permanent, but can typically be easily hidden by undergarments. There will also be a scar around the belly button. The scar tends to fade over time, but this can vary depending on ethnicity and genetics.

Generally you should have a body mass index (BMI) below 30. Some patients with a BMI of 30-35 may still be candidates for surgery. You can always book a free consultation to consult our plastic surgeons to discuss options. You can calculate your BMI here.

You should be within 10-15 pounds of your target weight prior to surgery, and should be able to maintain that weight for 6 months to a year before having an abdominoplasty. Fluctuations in your weight can undo the effects of your tummy tuck.

Walking is encouraged immediately after a tummy tuck. You should start walking around on the same day as your surgery. This improves circulation, reduces swelling and reduces the risk of blood clots.

Running and weight lifting can typically be resumed after 6 weeks. Core exercises, like sit-ups, may take 7-10 weeks to resume.

Each patient is different, and you should always follow your plastic surgeon’s specific advice for recovery.

Valespring provides a complimentary surgical compression garment which must be worn to achieve the best possible results and to minimize complications. It will reduce discomfort and control swelling, as well as minimize skin wrinkles, bumps and scars. The garment is generally worn for six weeks after surgery, or based on the advice of your plastic surgeon.

A good tummy tuck candidate typically has the following attributes:

• Generally fit and healthy with a body mass index (BMI) less than 35

• Non-smoker for at least 4 weeks

• At a stable weight which you are happy with

• Loose or sagging skin in the abdominal region

  • This could be a result of aging, pregnancy, weight fluctuation, etc.

• Not planning a future pregnancy

Drains are usually removed when draining less than 30 cc of fluid over a few days. This is highly variable and usually occurs within a few days to few weeks.

Usually the drain hole will close and heal within a few days after the drain is removed. If you have any concerns regarding how it is healing, you should follow up with your surgeon.