Introduction

A mini-abdominoplasty, often called a mini tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the lower abdominal area between the pubic bone and the umbilicus (belly button). It is less extensive than a full abdominoplasty and particularly suitable for patients with localized skin below the navel, without major upper-abdominal laxity.

Indications

Mini-abdominoplasty is appropriate for:

• Patients with mild to moderate lower abdominal skin excess after weight fluctuation or pregnancy.
  
  
• Individuals with good upper-abdominal tone and no significant separation (diastasis) above the umbilicus.
  
  
• Those seeking improvement in abdominal contour with minimal scarring and faster recovery.
  
  
• Patients maintaining stable body weight and healthy lifestyle for at least 6–12 months prior to surgery.
• Women who are not planning further pregnancies
  
  

Contraindications

The procedure is generally not suitable for:

• Patients with extensive abdominal skin redundancy requiring full abdominoplasty.
  
  
• Severe diastasis recti extending above the umbilicus.
  
  
• Uncontrolled diabetes, obesity (BMI > 30), or poor general health increasing surgical risk.
  
  
• Active smokers, unless smoking is stopped for a minimum of 6 weeks before and after surgery.
  
  
• Individuals with unrealistic expectations or poor compliance with postoperative care.
  
  

Surgical Technique

A gentle curved suprapubic incision is made within the bikini line. The skin and fat below the umbilicus are lifted, excess tissue removed, and the remaining skin is tightened.

• Muscle tightening (plication) may be performed if there is mild infra-umbilical diastasis.
  
  
• The umbilicus is not transposed (as in full abdominoplasty). If minor lowering of the umbilicus is desired, a sliding umbilicoplasty can be done—this keeps the natural umbilical attachment while allowing a subtle downward shift.
  
  
• The incision is closed with absorbable (dissolving) sutures.
  
  
• The procedure can be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on patient comfort and surgical plan.
  
  
• In many cases, the surgery is suitable as a day-case procedure, with patients discharged on the same day.