Mini Tummy Tuck in Upland & the Inland Empire
A mini tummy tuck is a smaller version of a full tummy tuck. It focuses on the area between the belly button and the pubic area, removing a limited amount of loose skin and fat and, when needed, tightening the lower abdominal muscles.
It can help people who are mostly happy with their upper belly but have a stubborn lower pooch or sagging skin below the navel. This can happen after pregnancy, weight changes or aging, and it often does not respond to diet and exercise.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults with a modest amount of loose skin or fat below the belly button
- People whose upper abdomen is already fairly flat and firm
- Those at or near a stable, healthy weight
- Patients in good overall health who do not smoke or are willing to quit
- People who want a shorter scar than a full tummy tuck
- Patients who understand a mini tummy tuck will not fix skin above the navel
Dr. Smiley's technique and philosophy
Dr. Smiley, a board-certified plastic surgeon, views the mini tummy tuck as following the same basic steps as a full tummy tuck, just on a smaller scale. Because less skin is removed and less muscle work is needed, the incision is much shorter, often around 10 to 15 centimeters.
In most mini tummy tucks the belly button does not need to be moved, which is one reason recovery can be a bit shorter. The incision is placed low so it can usually be hidden by underwear or a bathing suit. Dr. Smiley evaluates each patient carefully and may suggest liposuction, a full tummy tuck or a combined approach instead if that would better meet your goals.
What to expect
Consultation
At our Upland office, Dr. Smiley will look at your skin quality, fat and muscle tone and review your health, medications and habits like smoking or drinking. He will tell you honestly whether a mini or full tummy tuck makes more sense for you, and he will go over anesthesia, timing and preparation.
The procedure
The surgery is performed in an accredited surgical facility, not in our Upland consultation office. It is usually done under general anesthesia. A short incision is placed low, right above the pubic region, extra fat may be removed, the lower muscles may be tightened and the extra skin is trimmed before closing.
Recovery
Many patients take at least one week off work. You will usually wear a compression garment for a few weeks, and a small drain may be used for about a week. Most people avoid strenuous activity for about six weeks. Everyone heals differently, and scars typically fade over six months to a year. A scar care routine may be recommended to support healing.
Before & after photos
Real patients of Dr. Smiley. Results vary; individual results depend on anatomy, health and healing.
See the full Mini Tummy Tuck before & after gallery on dr-smiley.com
Risks and safety
A mini tummy tuck is still surgery and has risks. These can include raised or wide scars, fluid collection (seroma), bleeding or blood collection (hematoma), infection, the need for revision and risks related to general anesthesia.
Dr. Smiley will discuss these risks and how to reduce them at your consultation. Results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a mini and full tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck treats only the area below the belly button, uses a shorter incision and usually does not move the belly button. A full tummy tuck addresses the whole abdomen and often involves more muscle repair.
Is a mini tummy tuck scarless?
No. There is still a scar, but it is shorter than a full tummy tuck scar and placed low enough to be covered by most underwear or swimwear.
How much time off work will I need?
Many patients plan for at least one week off and avoid heavy lifting and hard workouts for about six weeks. Your own timeline depends on your job and how you heal.
Can I combine a mini tummy tuck with liposuction?
Often, yes. Liposuction can be used to help shape nearby areas like the flanks. Dr. Smiley will let you know if combining procedures is a good fit for you.
Book your consultation in Upland. Call (866) 372-3288 or text (714) 403-7092. Consultations are complimentary.
Learn more about this procedure on Dr. Smiley's main site: Mini Tummy Tuck at dr-smiley.com.