Abdomen & Body Surgery
Mini Tummy Tuck
A shorter-scar solution for laxity below the navel only.
Approximate timings reflect the practice information supplied for Op. Dr. Soner Tezcan. Additional procedures, health and recovery may change the plan. Surgery, stay and activity plans are confirmed during consultation and follow-up.
What is it?
A mini tummy tuck removes limited loose skin below the navel.
Who is it for?
People whose laxity is only in the lower abdomen with firm skin above the navel.
How is it done?
Lower abdominal excess is addressed; the need for muscle repair is assessed individually.
Recovery
Approximate return to work/social life: 10–14 days. This does not mean full recovery or clearance for exercise or flying. Swelling and tissue settling may take longer and are reviewed during follow-up.
What is a mini tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is a more limited operation for patients whose loose skin is only below the belly button. Excess skin and fat below the navel are removed and the lower abdomen is flattened.
How it differs from a full tummy tuck
In a mini tummy tuck the belly button stays in place and is not reshaped. The incision is still below the bikini line and hidden by clothing. Muscle repair is performed in every patient. Which method suits you is decided at consultation according to the amount of excess skin.
Surgery and recovery
Surgery is done under general anaesthesia, usually with 2 nights in hospital, and drains are used. For the first 1–2 weeks you walk slightly bent forward. Return to work takes about 10–14 days and a compression garment is worn for 4–6 weeks. The first massage session is done in Istanbul at the time the doctor decides. After returning home, patients are asked to continue with 2 sessions a week for 6 weeks.
Aftercare and follow-up
- One or two checks are planned before departure according to the return date. A flight report is provided; fitness and timing for travel require medical assessment. Anti-embolism stockings form part of the care plan.
- Antibiotics, pain relief, stomach protection and antibiotic ointment are used only as prescribed. Dose, application site and duration are individual; do not start treatment independently.
- Absorbable sutures are used; routine stitch removal is not planned. Scar cream is started after wound closure at the time advised by the surgeon.
- Drains are used for lifts and procedures involving liposuction; removal is determined by the surgeon during follow-up.
- A compression garment or suitable support/band is used for approximately 4–6 weeks, as individually instructed.
- Massage after lifts and liposuction is arranged only under the surgeon’s direction. One session is organised at the hotel or follow-up when appropriate; the timing and treatment area are specified by the surgeon. After returning home, patients are asked to continue with 2 sessions a week for 6 weeks.
- General activity plan: gentle walking in week one; light exercise after week two; regular sport after month one; weight lifting after month two. Every stage requires review and surgeon clearance; some procedures need longer restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
Does the belly button change in a mini tummy tuck?
No, it stays in place.
Mini or full tummy tuck?
If loose skin is only below the navel, a mini tummy tuck may be enough; this is decided at consultation.