Mini Tummy Tuck
Mini abdominoplasty, commonly called a mini tummy tuck, is a variation of the traditional tummy tuck. It treats minor pouching in the lower abdomen through a combined process of removing excess fat and skin and tightening loose, weak muscles in the area. The result is a firmer, flatter tummy. A physician may perform a mini tummy tuck on its own, or perhaps coupled with another procedure such as liposuction for greater reshaping of the lower abdomen.
The mini tummy tuck differs from the traditional tummy tuck through its focus on the lower abdomen, while the traditional tummy tuck’s range may expand to the navel. The incision for a mini tummy tuck is smaller, with less scarring, and better-disguised thanks to its location just above the pubic region. However, its results remain confined to this area. During your consultation with Dr. Vallecillos, you can decide whether a mini or traditional tummy tuck fulfills your needs best.
Procedure Walk-Through
Preparation
Before undergoing the procedure, make sure you are close to your ideal weight. Because weight fluctuations undermine the results of your mini tummy tuck, maintaining a lifestyle that includes exercise and a healthy diet, both before and after the surgery, is important. In the two weeks prior to your surgery, cut all medications and supplements that act as blood thinners, such as aspirin, vitamin E, and Ginkgo biloba. Additionally, smokers should quit smoking for at least two weeks before and two weeks after their surgery. Finally, those over 45 must obtain medical clearance from their primary physician.
Anesthesia
Patients undergoing a mini tummy tuck have three anesthesia options. General anesthesia is the most common choice, but local anesthesia with IV sedation and epidural anesthetic is also available. Discuss your options with Dr. Vallecillos.
Preoperative Consultation
This is the time to explain your goals for the procedure. Dr. Vallecillos will answer all your questions and advise you on pre-and post-operative care.
The procedure uses an incision similar to a Caesarean section, just above the pubic region. Dr. Vallecillos will remove excess fat, tissue, and skin, and then tighten and repair the lower abdominal muscles. The resulting scar is typically minimal and hidden in the body’s natural contours.
Why Choose Dr. Vallecillos?
A Surgeon Trusted by Celebrities, Creators & Global Professionals
For more than a decade, Dr. Glenn Vallecillos has built his reputation on natural, elegant results and a patient experience defined by discretion, innovation, and highly personalized care. His refined surgical technique and aesthetic eye make his Beverly Hills office a premium destination for patients seeking harmony, balance, and long-lasting beauty.
Pioneering Expertise in Advanced Body Contouring
Dr. Vallecillos holds the distinction of being the first plastic surgeon in the world to combine VASER-assisted high-definition lipoplasty with Inmode's RFAL FaceTite and BodyTite platforms. This groundbreaking integration allows him to deliver the ultimate definition available in hyper-aesthetic 4D body contouring. When you choose Dr. Vallecillos for your mommy makeover, you benefit from his innovative approach to surgical techniques that push the boundaries of what's possible in body transformation.
Recognized National Authority and Educator
As a Senior Faculty Member of Palette/Scientiae, Dr. Vallecillos provides continuing medical education training to nurses, physician assistants, physicians, and surgeons throughout the aUnited States and beyond. His role as an active national speaker and regular contributor to esteemed publications such as the European Journal of Plastic Surgery demonstrates his standing as a thought leader in plastic surgery. This commitment to advancing the field means you're receiving care from a surgeon who stays at the forefront of emerging techniques and technologies.
Board-Certified Excellence
Dr. Vallecillos is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, having completed rigorous training that included fellowship training in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Providence & St. John's Medical Center. His educational foundation from UCLA and clinical medical training at St. Bartholomew's and the Royal Medical College in London, England, combined with his general surgery training at the University of Michigan, provide him with comprehensive medical expertise that informs every aspect of patient care.
Partnership-Based Patient Care
Dr. Vallecillos's philosophy centers on partnership with his patients. He strives to establish strong relationships with patients, considering many of them family. As a patient of Dr. Vallecillos, you will experience genuine care and attention throughout every touchpoint of your surgical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a candidate for a mini tummy tuck?
Who is a candidate for a mini tummy tuck?
The ideal candidate for mini abdominoplasty is close to his or her optimum weight, with the area of complaint focused below the navel. Typically, these patients have maintained a healthy lifestyle; but, due to age, pregnancy, or fitness plateaus have a persistent pouch in their lower abdomen. Women expecting to become pregnant in the future may want to delay their mini tummy tuck until after they finish having children, as pregnancy negatively affects results.
What is the recovery time for a mini tummy tuck?
What is the recovery time for a mini tummy tuck?
While a mini tummy tuck has a shorter recovery time than a traditional abdominoplasty, it is still major surgery. Follow Dr. Vallecillos’ postoperative instructions exactly to ensure both a quicker recovery and optimum results.
Part of your surgical dressing includes an elastic bandage that supports the area during healing. The first week following your surgery, you will experience swelling and some pain. The doctor may also place a small drainage tube to drain away excess fluid. Within two weeks, you may return to work and may be approved to resume light exercise. Bruising and swelling continue for several weeks, and residual numbness may persist for several months.
How long does a mini tummy tuck procedure take?
How long does a mini tummy tuck procedure take?
Generally, this surgery takes two to three hours to complete, depending on the size of the treatment area.
What are the risks and side effects of a mini tummy tuck?
What are the risks and side effects of a mini tummy tuck?
All surgeries come with certain risks, including bleeding, nerve damage, and infection. In addition, mini tummy tuck side effects include pain, bruising, and swelling. In addition, patients may develop blood clots in the legs (called deep vein thrombosis) that results in pulmonary embolus. Making sure to walk around the day following surgery (and each day after that) helps protect against this.
How long do the results last?
How long do the results last?
If you maintain a healthy lifestyle and a healthy weight, and have no future pregnancies, results can last a lifetime.