Mini Tummy Tucks vs. Full Tummy Tucks
A mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, may be recommended for patients that are within 10% of their ideal body weight. This procedure is less invasive and can be done on an outpatient basis. While a full tummy tuck involves an incision around the navel and across the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck leaves the navel intact and requires a smaller incision. Liposuction is sometimes employed and the fat is removed from below the navel, tightening muscles from the navel to the pubis.

If your abdominal muscles require more extensive tightening and your body weight is more than 20% above your ideal weight, your plastic surgeon is more likely to recommend a full abdominoplasty. This frequently is performed with liposuction to obtain the best results.

The illustration on the left shows the incisions used for a partial abdominoplasty, or mini tummy tuck. The illustration on the right shows the incisions used for a full abdominoplasty, or full tummy tuck.

See Who is a good candidate? for more information regarding tummy tuck procedures. The final decision on whether to undergo a mini tummy tuck or full tummy tuck should be made with a board certified plastic surgeon.