The mini-abdominoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure designed to remove excess skin and sagging in the lower abdomen.
This is a less complex procedure than abdominoplasty, is recommended for patients who are at their ideal weight but have moderate sagging below the navel..
Understand whether this procedure is the most suitable option for your situation and to achieve the results you want.
Learn all about mini-abdominoplasty
Mini-abdominoplasty is an aesthetic surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the lower abdomen by removing excess skin and sagging located in that region.
This surgery is indicated for people who are within their ideal weight, have excess skin accumulated in the area below the navel, and/or have sagging skin and stretch marks, but do not need to remove a large area of skin.
Just like abdominoplasty, At the moment, mini-abdominoplasty is a very popular procedure, especially for women who have already become mothers or for patients who have lost a lot of weight.
Mini-abdominoplasty vs. Abdominoplasty
Mini-abdominoplasty is a less invasive version of abdominoplasty, as it works on both the lower and upper abdomen.
Compared to a full abdominoplasty, in a mini-abdominoplasty a smaller amount of skin is removed, resulting in smaller scars and a less painful post-operative period.
It is important to note that this option is not suitable for all patients, especially those with excess skin and fat over the entire abdominal region, not just the lower area.
It is therefore essential to discuss all the options and consider the possible results and risks with a qualified plastic surgeon before deciding to undergo this surgery.
Who is it suitable for?
Genetic factors, age, large weight fluctuations and pregnancies are the main factors that lead to the accumulation of skin and sagging in the abdominal region.
However, regardless of all this, patients can have a similar life history and have different levels of fat, excess skin and sagging. It all depends on the individual.
That's why not everyone needs a full tummy tuck, sometimes a mini-abdominoplasty is the best solution.
As already mentioned, it is recommended for people of ideal weight who have excess skin in the lower abdomen - below the navel - and who may also have sagging skin and stretch marks.
These are usually the people who are popularly referred to as “thin with a belly”.
Despite being within the recommended weight for their height, these patients may be dissatisfied with the appearance of their abdomen and want a firmer, flatter belly.
These are the general features of patients suitable for mini-abdominoplasty, but it is always the plastic surgeon who assesses, on a case-by-case basis and depending on the characteristics of each patient, which procedure is most suitable for achieving the desired results.
Surgical procedure
During a mini-abdominoplasty, the plastic surgeon makes an incision - larger or smaller, depending on the area to be treated - in the area of the lower abdomen, usually close to the bikini line. This incision removes excess skin and stretch marks from that area.
As with abdominoplasty, mini-abdominoplasty can be combined with liposuction in the same operation if the patient also has unwanted localised fat deposits in the abdominal area. This procedure is called lipoabdominoplasty.
Mini-abdominoplasty is performed with an epidural and sedation and, being a simpler procedure than a full abdominoplasty, lasts around two hours and the patient is usually discharged within 24 hours of the surgery.
Recovery and post-operative care
Although recovery from a mini-abdominoplasty is not very painful, there are some precautions that should be followed for a more peaceful post-operative period.
- Rest
Especially during the first week, the patient should remain at rest and can gradually return to her normal routine. The average recovery time and return to normal activities and work is around two weeks.
Bear in mind that although it is important to rest during this phase, you shouldn't always lie down in the same position. It is advisable to take short walks to promote circulation and prevent clots from forming.
During the first four to five weeks after the procedure, the patient should avoid exertion and physical activity.
Other precautions such as sleeping on your stomach and bending slightly forwards during the first two weeks are essential to prevent the stitches from opening.
In the phase following surgery, there may be a feeling of tightness in the abdomen, discomfort and moderate pain, which is relieved with medication prescribed by the doctor.
- Wearing a compression belt
The plastic surgeon will recommend wearing a compression girdle for around 45 days and it will be one of your greatest allies during the recovery period. It should only be removed when showering and will help to deflate, give stability and shape the abdomen, while also facilitating healing.
- Post-operative physiotherapy
Physiotherapy and lymphatic drainage sessions are essential to reduce fluid retention and oedema, preventing bruising. The number of sessions to be carried out will be indicated by the surgeon and the physiotherapist in charge.
- Healthy eating
For a better recovery and, subsequently, to maintain the results achieved, the patient must eat a balanced, healthy diet and maintain a good level of hydration by drinking fluids.
Mini-abdominoplasty results
The results of this plastic surgery vary from body to body, depending on the body's reaction to the surgery, the quality of the technique used and the care taken in the post-operative period.
Despite this, there is always a direct relationship between the results obtained with surgery and patients' well-being and improved self-esteem.
After having a mini-abdominoplasty, you will feel much more comfortable wearing tighter, uncovered clothes and carrying out activities you weren't comfortable with before.
Having plastic surgery can also be the first step towards a healthier lifestyle. Following the doctor's recommendations to the letter is one of the most important steps to avoid possible complications, such as haematomas, stitches opening or scar infection.
You should also choose a recognised clinic and a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon with proven training and specific experience in this type of procedure.
To make sure you're in good hands, check the professional history, examine previous cases and consult recommendations from other patients.
LMR, a plastic surgery clinic in Lisbon, is equipped with the latest technology and has an experienced, competent, friendly and always available team. If you're interested in having a mini-abdominoplasty and want to know prices, ask for more information or book your assessment appointment, fill in this form. We'll answer briefly.
