A mini tummy tuck in Dallas (also known as a partial abdominoplasty), is a cosmetic surgical procedure that addresses excess skin and fat below the belly button. Unlike a full tummy tuck, it focuses on the lower abdomen and involves a smaller incision and less recovery time. This procedure tightens loose muscles and removes sagging skin, creating a flatter, more toned abdominal appearance. It’s ideal for individuals with minimal skin laxity and localized fat deposits, offering a less invasive option with quicker recovery compared to a full abdominoplasty.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Dallas
Goals of a Mini Tummy Tuck Include:
- Remove excess skin and fat below the belly button
- Tighten weakened or separated abdominal muscles
- Enhance the contour and appearance of the lower abdomen
- Minimize the visibility of scars with a smaller incision
- Reduce recovery time compared to a full tummy tuck
- Achieve a flatter, more toned abdominal profile
- Improve confidence and body image
How Mini Tummy Tuck Works
A mini tummy tuck in Dallas, or partial abdominoplasty, involves making a small incision above the pubic area. Through this incision, the surgeon separates the skin and fat layers from the abdominal wall, allowing for the repositioning and tightening of the muscles.
The skin is then stretched down, and any excess is trimmed away. This results in a flatter, firmer lower abdomen with a smaller scar and a shorter recovery period compared to a full tummy tuck.
Candidates for Mini Tummy Tuck:
- Have excess skin or fat localized to the lower abdomen
- May have weak or separated abdominal muscles
- Want to improve the contour of their lower abdomen
- Can maintain a stable weight and are in overall good health
- Are non-smokers or willing to quit before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations about the results and recovery process
- May have undergone previous abdominal surgeries and seek minor corrections
- Want a less invasive procedure than a full tummy tuck
- Are close to their ideal body weight but struggle with a stubborn lower belly pooch
Mini Tummy Tuck Vs. Full Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck in Dallas focuses on the lower abdomen with a smaller incision, less tissue removal, and quicker recovery. It targets excess skin and fat below the belly button and tightens lower abdominal muscles. A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdomen, involves a larger incision, and more extensive muscle tightening and skin removal.
This procedure is suitable for significant excess skin and muscle laxity and provides comprehensive contouring. Recovery is longer, but the results are more dramatic compared to a mini tummy tuck.
Dr. Chiodo’s Personalized Mini Tummy Tuck Technique
During a mini tummy tuck, you’ll first receive anesthesia to ensure comfort. Dr. Chiodo makes a small incision just above your pubic area. Through this incision, he carefully removes excess skin and fat. He then tightens the underlying abdominal muscles, stitching them together for a firmer, flatter look. The skin is stretched down, and the excess is trimmed away, creating a smoother contour. Once the adjustments are complete, Dr. Chiodo will close the incision with sutures and apply a surgical dressing.
Recovery After Mini Tummy Tuck
After a mini tummy tuck, you may experience side effects like swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Recovery time typically ranges from 1 to 2 weeks, with downtime depending on your individual healing process. Dr. Chiodo will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including guidelines for managing pain, caring for your incision, and resuming activities.
You must wear a compression garment to support healing and reduce swelling. Follow-ups will be scheduled to ensure your recovery is on track and help you achieve the best possible results.
Mini Tummy Tuck FAQs
How Much Does a Mini Tummy Tuck Cost?
The cost of a mini tummy tuck generally ranges from $8,000 to $11,500, depending on factors like operating room time, extent of liposuction, and whether an overnight stay is needed. A personalized quote will be provided during your consultation after evaluating your specific goals and surgical plan.
How Long Does Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery Take?
The procedure typically takes between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the patient’s anatomy and whether additional procedures like liposuction are performed at the same time.
What’s the Difference Between a Tiny Tummy Tuck and a Mini Tuck?
At our practice, “tiny tummy tuck” and “mini tummy tuck” are used interchangeably. Both refer to a smaller-scale tummy tuck with a shorter, lower incision and refined liposuction, focused primarily on contouring the lower abdomen.
Can a Mini Tummy Tuck Remove My C-Section Scar?
Yes—in most cases, the incision for a mini tummy tuck is made lower than your existing C-section scar, allowing Dr. Burns to remove the scar tissue during surgery for a smoother, more aesthetically pleasing result.
When Can I Return to Exercise After a Mini Tummy Tuck?
- Week 4: Light cardio is permitted—such as incline walking, stair climbing, or using a stationary bike. Avoid lifting weights or high-impact movement.
- Week 8: Gradually reintroduce light toning exercises with low weights and high repetitions.
- Week 12+: Resume heavier lifting and core-focused workouts once cleared by Dr. Burns. By this stage, your abdominal muscles should be fully healed and stronger than before.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Michael Chiodo is a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic procedures, including the mini tummy tuck. With extensive training and expertise, he provides personalized care to achieve natural and lasting results. If you want to improve your lower abdomen appearance with a mini tummy tuck in Dallas, schedule an appointment with Dr. Chiodo today.
