Mini Tummy Tuck

The photograph above demonstrates before and after photographs of a patient after a “mini-tummy tuck” and liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, lower back, and bra fat.

It is quite common for women to present in our Newport Beach office who have lower abdominal laxity as well as localized deposits of fat around the abdomen. Often these women do not wish to undergo a full abdominoplasty and would rather keep their scars to a minimum.

Patients may have a prior cesarean section scar that can be used to gain access to the lower abdominal muscles that need to be tightened. These scars can be revised at the same time that the lower abdominal muscles are tightened.  Liposuction can be performed at the same time that the lower abdominal muscles are tightened to remove fat from the upper abdomen, the flanks, the lower back, and bra fat.

Q: What type of anesthesia is commonly used during a Mini Tummy Tuck procedure?

I prefer to use general anesthesia when performing a tummy tuck.  The reason for this is that the muscles must be relaxed whenever a procedure is performed that involves tightening up the abdominal wall.  A local anesthetic will not allow the muscles to relax sufficiently which prevents us from tightening the muscle fascia wall with sutures.

Q: What are common discomforts associated with a Mini Tummy Tuck?

Many people feel a band or tightness surging up and down their midline. This sensation can last up to 6 months.