Mini, Standard, or Extended Tummy Tuck: What’s the Difference?
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a popular procedure for removing excess skin and fat while tightening the abdominal muscles. However, not all tummy tucks are the same. There are three main types of tummy tucks, each designed to address different levels of skin laxity and muscle separation.
Standard Tummy Tuck
The most common type of tummy tuck includes two key components:
- Skin and fat removal – Excess skin and fat between the belly button and lower abdominal crease (near the C-section scar or pubic area) are removed.
- Muscle repair – The rectus abdominis (six-pack) muscles are brought back together after being stretched apart by pregnancy. This is essential because no amount of physical therapy can fully restore their original position.
Best for:
- Women after pregnancy who have loose skin and muscle separation.
- Patients with moderate skin laxity in the lower abdomen.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Many patients ask if they qualify for a mini tummy tuck, which is a less invasive option. This procedure is ideal if:
- You don’t have a significant amount of excess skin or fat.
- Your main concern is muscle separation and a small amount of skin laxity.
A mini tummy tuck involves a smaller incision and focuses on tightening the lower abdomen. However, it does not remove as much skin or reposition the belly button.
Best for:
- Patients with mild lower abdominal skin laxity.
- Those who have good skin elasticity but need muscle repair.
Extended Tummy Tuck
For patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, an extended tummy tuck offers the most dramatic transformation. This procedure:
- Removes more skin and fat than a standard tummy tuck.
- Extends the incision around the sides and toward the back to address excess tissue on the flanks.
Best for:
- Patients who have undergone massive weight loss and have excess skin extending beyond the front of the abdomen.
- Those needing contouring beyond the standard tummy tuck area.
Which Tummy Tuck Is Right for You?
The choice between a mini, standard, or extended tummy tuck depends on your skin laxity, muscle separation, and body goals. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine which approach best suits your needs.
For personalized recommendations, schedule a consultation at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington today.
