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What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?

Otherwise known as mini-abdominoplasty, a mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and tissue from the midsection. What makes a mini tummy tuck different from the standard tummy tuck is that mini tummy tucks only treat the area between the navel and the pubic line. Patients who choose to undergo a mini tummy tuck procedure get to enjoy shorter surgery time, smaller incisions and scars, and a shorter recovery period.

What is the difference between a full and mini tummy tuck?

The standard, or full, tummy tuck procedure removes loose skin and tightens the abdominal muscles to create an improved aesthetic in the entire midsection. A mini tummy tuck, on the other hand, is designed to treat a ‘belly pooch,’ which develops in patients who are a bit slimmer. As such, the mini tummy tuck procedure focuses entirely on the lower abdominal zone (below the belly button).

Who are ideal candidates for a mini tummy tuck?

Ideal candidates for a mini tummy tuck in Houston have the following conditions:

  • Have a moderate amount of excess skin and fat in the abdominal region
  • Have strong muscle tone 
  • Are of sound body and mind 

During the private consultation, Dr. Arroyo assesses the condition of the patient’s stomach to determine if a mini tummy tuck is right for them. It is important for patients to let Dr. Arroyo know what their aesthetic goals are and ask any questions they may have during the consultation.

What does the procedure entail?

Dr. Arroyo begins the process by making a horizontal incision below the navel, through which he will extract excess skin. This incision also serves as an entryway for Dr. Arroy to reach the abdominal muscles and tighten them, achieving the desired contours. The incisions are then closed with sutures. Patients should be aware that belly button repositioning is not a part of this procedure. Once the procedure is finished, bandages are applied to the treatment area and the patient is watched for a period of time before being discharged. 

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Total Intravenous Anesthesia (TIVA) Sedation

With mini tummy tuck procedures, Dr. Arroyo uses Total Intravenous Anesthesia (TIVA) Sedation. This is a special sedation method that gives patients the ability to breathe by themselves without requiring intubation during the procedure. TIVA also comes with less of the side effects that have been linked to general anesthesia, such as nausea, pain, and vomiting. Prior to the surgery, Dr. Arroyo administers an oral medication to calm the patient’s nerves and reduce discomfort. The IV sedation then commences. Both before and during the surgery, patients are closely monitored to ensure that they are comfortable and safe throughout the process. 

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What is the recovery process like?

Patients can start engaging in light activity about 48 hours after the surgery. At the 2-week mark, the sutures are removed. Patients can usually get back to work in just 1 to 2 weeks and start doing moderate exercise by around 5 to 6 weeks. 

How much does a mini tummy tuck cost?

The cost of the procedure can vary based on multiple factors. That said, most patients pay somewhere between $7,000-$10,000. Patients will receive an estimate on their procedure during the consultation process. 

Mini Tummy Tuck FAQs

Are there any noticeable scars?

What procedures can be combined with a mini tummy tuck?

Are there any noticeable scars?

Any procedure that involves incisions will undoubtedly result in some amount of scarring. That said, patients who undergo a mini tummy tuck procedure will walk away with less noticeable scarring, as the incisions are incredibly small. In addition, Dr. Arroyo makes sure to make all incisions in the lower areas of the abdomen where they will be hidden by clothing.

What procedures can be combined with a mini tummy tuck?

A mini tummy tuck is often performed in tandem with other procedures, such as a breast lift, breast augmentation, liposuction (of the hips, back, or thighs), arm lifts, and thigh lifts.

Why choose Dr. Arroyo?

Dr. Christian Arroyo is highly revered for his expertise in the field of cosmetology. From the consultation process all the way through to the day of the procedure, Dr. Arroyo establishes a connection with his clients and listens to all of their concerns. His extensive educational background includes the University of Puerto Rico, the University of Connecticut, and the Mayo Clinic of Rochester, Minnesota. He works tirelessly to ensure that every patient leaves his office looking and feeling their best.  

After completing a plastic surgery residency at Houston Methodist Hospital, he went on to develop a reputation as one of Houston’s most respected and revered cosmetic surgeons. Dr. Arroyo was recently voted Houston’s Best of the Best Plastic Surgeon 2022 by the Houston Chronicle. Reach out to our office today to set up a private consultation and learn more about a mini tummy tuck in Houston. 

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