If you have excess skin and fat localized to the area below your belly button, a mini tummy tuck may be ideal. This less invasive alternative to a full tummy tuck focuses specifically on the lower abdomen, offering dramatic results with a shorter recovery time.
A mini tummy tuck (partial abdominoplasty) is designed for patients with good skin tone above the belly button but struggle with a lower abdominal pooch that doesn't respond to diet and exercise. This procedure removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and can tighten muscles below the belly button.
The mini tummy tuck requires a shorter incision than a full abdominoplasty, typically just above the pubic area where it can be easily concealed. Because the belly button is not repositioned, recovery is faster and scarring is more limited.
You may be a good candidate for a mini tummy tuck if you:
• Have excess skin and fat only below the belly button
• Have good skin tone above the belly button
• Are in good health and near your ideal weight
• Do not smoke
• Have realistic expectations
• Are not planning to become pregnant in the near future
A mini tummy tuck is ideal for patients needing less extensive correction than a full tummy tuck. If you have significant excess skin above the belly button or widespread muscle separation, a full tummy tuck may be more appropriate.
During your consultation, we'll discuss your goals and determine if a mini tummy tuck is right for you.
• Areas you want to improve
• Mini vs. full tummy tuck comparison
• Whether to combine with liposuction
A physical exam and photographs help guide your personalized approach.
Understanding the differences helps determine the best approach:
During your consultation, we'll help you determine which approach best suits your needs.
A mini tummy tuck is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.
You'll be comfortably sedated with either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.
A horizontal incision is made just above the pubic area, typically shorter than a full tummy tuck incision.
Excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen, and if needed, lower abdominal muscles are tightened.
The remaining skin is pulled down and sutured. Unlike a full tummy tuck, the belly button is not repositioned.
Recovery from a mini tummy tuck is typically faster than a full tummy tuck. Most patients experience:
• Mild to moderate discomfort for several days
• Return to light activities within 1–2 weeks
• Resume normal routines within 3–4 weeks
• Compression garment worn for 4–6 weeks
• Strenuous activities avoided for 4–6 weeks
• Final results visible as swelling subsides over several months
You'll wear a compression garment to support healing and minimize swelling.
Use our Treatment Planner to explore options and estimate your personalized treatment timeline.
Start Planning →Your mini tummy tuck results will be visible immediately, with final results emerging as swelling subsides. Most patients experience:
✔ Dramatic improvement in lower abdominal contour
✔ Flatter, firmer lower abdomen
✔ More confidence in fitted clothing and swimwear
✔ Faster recovery than full tummy tuck
✔ Minimal scarring that fades over time
With proper care and stable weight, your results can last indefinitely. The strategically placed scar typically fades significantly and is easily concealed.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Justin West to discuss your mini tummy tuck goals.
230 S Main Street, Suite 210, Orange, CA 92868