Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck is a less extensive version of the traditional abdominoplasty that focuses on removing excess tissue from the lower abdomen. ⁽¹⁾ It requires a smaller incision and shorter recovery time, but still provides significant improvements for patients who wish to address skin laxity below the belly button that cannot be eliminated through a healthy diet and exercise. 

Dr. Dax Demaree is triple board-certified in cosmetic surgery through the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery, and in general surgery by the American College of Osteopathic Surgery. As the medical director at Premier Surgical Arts in Altoona, WI, Dr. Demaree prioritizes patient safety and personalized care while delivering transformative, natural-looking results.

To learn more about how a mini tummy tuck can help you elevate your silhouette, request a personal consultation by calling (715) 575-5800 or submitting our online contact form.

About Mini Tummy Tucks

A mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, is a specialized surgical technique designed to address aesthetic concerns specifically in the lower abdomen. While a traditional tummy tuck involves a comprehensive overhaul of the entire midsection, including repositioning the navel and tightening muscles from the ribcage to the pubic bone, the mini version is far more targeted. ⁽²⁾ This procedure best helps patients who have a “pouch” or skin laxity that is strictly confined to the area below the belly button.

For this technique, Dr. Demaree creates a horizontal incision just above the pubic area, ensuring that the resulting scar remains discreet and easily concealed by most undergarments and swimsuits. Through this access point, he can eliminate redundant skin and use liposuction to sculpt and refine the lower abdominal profile. 

Since the surgical scope of a mini tummy tuck is more targeted than a traditional abdominoplasty, many patients benefit from a faster healing process and less time away from their daily routines. Despite its “mini” designation, the improvements are often significant, yielding a firmer, flatter abdomen and harmonious physical proportions. This approach is a favored option for mothers looking to reclaim their pre-pregnancy figure or individuals dealing with persistent laxity after minor weight changes. Ultimately, this procedure serves as an ideal middle ground between non-invasive body sculpting and a comprehensive tummy tuck.

Benefits

Beyond the physical transformation, a mini tummy tuck offers profound psychological benefits. Patients frequently report: 

Candidates

The best candidates for a mini tummy tuck are healthy individuals who are at or in close range of their goal weight and wish to address lower abdominal pouching or laxity. Patients should have realistic expectations and bear in mind that this is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss solution. Patients should also be non-smokers or be willing to quit using nicotine for an extended period of time before and after surgery. Dr. Demaree will perform a physical examination and medical assessment during your consultation to determine whether the mini tummy tuck is the right procedure for you.

Personal Consultation

During your one-on-one meeting with Dr. Demaree, you will discuss your medical history, including any previous surgeries, medications, or health conditions that may affect your healing abilities. Dr. Demaree will perform a thorough physical evaluation, assessing your lower abdomen for skin quality, abdominal wall structure, and fat distribution. You will review your aesthetic goals and concerns, and Dr. Demaree will explain the procedure, recovery process, and potential outcomes in detail. Through this exchange of information, Dr. Demaree will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your anatomy and goals. 

To request a personal consultation and start planning your mini tummy tuck with Dr. Demaree, please call the Premier Surgical Arts offices at (715) 575-5800 or contact us online. 

Preparation

Dr. Demaree and the team will provide you with detailed information to help you best prepare for a smooth procedure and restorative recovery. General guidelines may include: 

Procedure

Dr. Demaree will perform your mini tummy tuck with anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the outpatient procedure. He begins with a discreet, horizontal incision just above the pubic line. Through this access point, he gently separates the skin from the abdominal wall, removing excess tissue as planned. If needed for a firmer foundation, he will carefully tighten the lower abdominal muscles. Dr. Demaree often uses liposuction in the surrounding areas to achieve a smooth, natural-looking transition. Finally, he meticulously closes the incision with sutures, specifically positioned to minimize scarring and aid in your recovery. 

Recovery

While recovery from a mini tummy tuck is typically less extensive than with a full abdominoplasty, your body still requires time and care to heal. Most patients experience some bruising, swelling, and tenderness in the days immediately following surgery. You can manage these symptoms with prescribed pain medication, diligent wearing of a compression garment, and limited movement. 

Many patients return to non-strenuous desk work and light physical activity within a week or two. You will need to continue avoiding heavy lifting, bending over, or strenuous activity for four to six weeks or until Dr. Demaree provides clearance. Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments so he can monitor your progress and address any concerns.  

Results

While an immediate transformation in your abdominal profile will be apparent, your final results will continue to evolve as post-operative swelling resolves. This healing process reveals a flatter, more contoured abdomen that becomes increasingly refined over the three to six months.

After undergoing a mini tummy tuck, patients often experience a significant restoration of confidence. The discreet nature of the incision ensures that scarring remains easily hidden and continues to fade over time. You can maintain your improvements for years by adhering to a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. Through meticulous surgical technique, Dr. Demaree ensures that your results appear balanced, harmonious, and enduring.

Corresponding Procedures 

To help patients achieve more comprehensive silhouette refinement, Dr. Demaree can pair a mini tummy tuck with any number of other body contouring procedures. During your personal consultation, you can discuss with him which options most suit your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Some potential pairings include: 

Liposuction

Liposuction is frequently combined with a mini tummy tuck to address stubborn fat deposits that diet and exercise alone cannot resolve. By targeting areas like the flanks (love handles), hips, or upper abdomen, Dr. Demaree can use liposuction to refine your silhouette further. This pairing ensures a harmonious transition between your abdomen and your hips.

Breast Procedures

For many patients, a mini tummy tuck is a cornerstone of a mommy makeover. Pairing a mini tummy tuck with breast augmentation or a breast lift can restore volume or lift tissue lost after pregnancy and nursing, or significant weight loss. This combination approach provides a balanced transformation, helping you reclaim your figure with the benefit of a single procedure and recovery period. 

Cost of a Mini Tummy Tuck in Wisconsin

The cost of a mini tummy tuck varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia fees, and whether any corresponding treatments are included. During your personal consultation, Dr. Demaree will provide you with a cost estimate that reflects the specific details of your treatment plan. Qualified patients may also discuss financing options to help make treatment more accessible.

To request a personal consultation and start planning your aesthetic rejuvenation, call (715) 575-5800 or submit an online contact form. 

FAQ

References

1. Regan JP, Casaubon JT. Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck). PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431058/
2. Daniel El Israwi, Watfa W. Rectus Muscle Plication in Mini-abdominoplasty with Umbilicus Preservation. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2023;11(5):e4998-e4998. doi: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10191556/