Mini Tummy Tuck FAQ’s

What is a partial abdominoplasty?

A partial or ‘mini’ abdominoplasty is the process of removing excess rolls of fat and skin from the abdomen. This results in a younger, flatter and shapely looking abdomen.

There is another version of this procedure called an ‘apronectomy’. This is performed on those patients who have a large amount of fat and skin which sags down into the pubic area. This procedure involves the removal of this ‘apron’ of fat and skin; the belly button is left intact.

What is the partial abdominoplasty procedure?

The procedure involves the surgeon making a smaller incision above the bikini line. He or she will then separate the skin between this incision and the belly button. Excess fat and skin is removed and the skin flap is pulled down and stitched back in place.

The belly button is not removed or repositioned.

This will leave you with a flatter and more toned looking abdomen.

Who should consider a partial abdominoplasty?

It is a good choice for those patients who don’t have large amounts of fat and skin sagging around the lower abdomen. It can also be helpful for those patients who have a relatively slim abdomen but just want it re-sculpted into a more aesthetic shape.

It is important to bear in mind that this is still a surgical procedure and so will require a fair amount of time to recover and heal. You need to be in good health and to have realistic expectations about the outcome of this surgery.

What are the benefits of a partial abdominoplasty?

This is a very successful procedure and the vast majority of patients are very pleased with the results. Your abdomen will appear shapelier, trimmer and toned which will improve your self-confidence.

The long term results are very good as long as you maintain a healthy eating and exercise regime

What are the risks of a partial abdominoplasty?

Cosmetic surgery is safe but no surgery is 100% free from complications and you do need to be aware of this.

Complications are rare but they do happen. If you are overweight, a smoker, have diabetes or have had abdominal surgery before then you are at a higher risk.

The main complications are:

• Wound infection
• Bleeding
• Haematoma (blood clot)
• Skin or fat necrosis (skin/fat ‘death’)
• Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)

Other risks include scarring, swelling and numbness.

There is the risk that a scar will burst open which means revision surgery would be needed. Swelling is a normal part of the healing process but it can remain for a long period of time.

The abdomen and thighs can become numb as a result of nerve damage during surgery. This tends to ease after a few months but there is the chance that a small area will remain permanently without sensation.

If this happens then further surgery may be needed to correct this.

If you notice anything untoward when you return home after your surgery, such as a rapid or unusual heartbeat, shortness of breath, bleeding or infection then contact your surgeon instantly.