Procedure Before/After Fees Post-Operative Instructions Consultants Testimonials Frequently Asked Questions
A mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to address excess fat and loose skin in the lower abdomen, typically between the belly button and the pubic area. This area can develop a “pooch” or isolated pocket of stubborn fat due to factors such as age, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, or shifts in metabolism.
Unlike a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck is less invasive, focusing specifically on the lower abdominal region. The procedure usually involves a smaller incision and does not require repositioning the navel, resulting in a shorter, more discreet scar. It is ideal for patients who have excess skin or fat concentrated in the lower abdomen but do not require full abdominal tightening.
A mini tummy tuck targets the lower abdomen to create a firmer, flatter, and more toned appearance. By removing excess skin and stubborn fat, it can improve the contour of the lower belly without the need for a full, hip-to-hip incision or repositioning the navel. Compared to a traditional tummy tuck, the procedure is less invasive, involves a smaller scar, and typically allows for a quicker recovery.
A mini tummy tuck can be particularly beneficial for those who:
This procedure offers a targeted solution for improving lower abdominal shape when diet and exercise alone aren’t enough.
A mini tummy tuck is designed for individuals who have some excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen, but not enough to require a full tummy tuck.
It is ideal for those looking to improve the contour of the lower belly when diet and exercise alone haven’t produced the desired results.
The procedure is best suited for people who are at or near their target weight and have maintained a stable weight for several months.
Women who plan to have children in the future are generally advised to wait until after they have finished their family, as pregnancy can affect the results.
Other factors that make someone a good candidate include:
Additionally, individuals with abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti) after pregnancy may benefit from a mini tummy tuck, as the procedure can help restore muscle tone in the lower abdomen.
A consultation with a qualified surgeon is essential to determine whether a mini tummy tuck is the right option for your body type and goals, as suitability depends on your health, anatomy, and the extent of excess skin and fat.
A mini tummy tuck is typically performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you are fully asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. The surgeon will make a small incision along the lower abdomen, usually positioned just above the pubic area, where it can be easily concealed under clothing or swimwear.
Through this incision, excess skin and fat are removed, and any lax abdominal muscles are tightened to create a smoother, firmer lower belly. Unlike a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck does not involve repositioning the belly button or a larger hip-to-hip incision. This makes the procedure less invasive, generally results in a shorter recovery period, and leaves a smaller, more discreet scar.
The surgery usually takes around one to one and a half hours to complete, depending on the individual case and the amount of correction needed.
2 - 2.5 hours
Twilight Anaesthesia or TIVA (Total Intravenous Anaesthesia)
Daycase or 1 Night Stay
7-14 days
Bruising, swelling, temporary numbness, temporary skin irregularity, fluid collection, delayed wound healing of umbilicus
Infection, excessive scarring, asymmetry, bleeding, permanent numbness, delayed wound healing, skin tags at end of scar, fat necrosis, skin necrosis
1 week, 2 weeks, 3 months (after surgery)
2 - 3 weeks
2 weeks - walking 6 weeks - everything except sit-ups and swimming 12 weeks - everything
12 weeks until final result. Scars continue to improve over 18 months
A mini tummy tuck starts from £6,044. Please get in touch to confirm your fee. All patients will require a consultation prior to surgery to assess your individual requirements and desires.
Mini tummy tuck
From £6,044
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Q: What is the recovery time for a mini tummy tuck compared to a full tummy tuck?
A: Recovery from a mini tummy tuck tends to be quicker and less intensive than from a full tummy tuck. Because the incision is smaller and fewer anatomical structures are altered, many patients can return to light activity within 1–2 weeks.
Q: Will the belly button be repositioned during a mini tummy tuck?
A: No — one of the distinguishing features of a mini tummy tuck is that it does not typically involve repositioning the belly button, which contributes to a less invasive procedure and smaller scar.
Q: Can a mini tummy tuck fix muscle separation (diastasis recti)?
A: A mini tummy tuck may address mild to moderate muscle laxity in the lower abdomen, but for more extensive muscle separation across the entire abdomen, a full tummy tuck may be more appropriate.
Q: How visible will the scar be after a mini tummy tuck?
A: The scar from a mini tummy tuck is typically smaller, placed low along the bikini line or pubic area, and more easily concealed than the scar from a full tummy tuck. With proper aftercare, it often fades well over time.
Q: Will insurance cover a mini tummy tuck?
A: In most cases, a mini tummy tuck is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by medical insurance. There are rare exceptions when it may be deemed medically necessary, but these are uncommon and must be confirmed by your insurer.
Q: How much does a mini tummy tuck cost?
A: The cost varies widely depending on the individual case — factors such as the amount of skin/fat to be removed, whether liposuction is included, surgeon and facility fees, and regional variations all influence the final price.
Q: Is a mini tummy tuck less expensive than a full tummy tuck?
A: Yes — generally speaking, a mini tummy tuck costs significantly less than a full tummy tuck because it involves a smaller area of correction, shorter operating time, and fewer surgical steps.
Q: How much weight will I lose with a mini tummy tuck?
A: Weight loss is not the primary goal of a mini tummy tuck. While you might lose a few pounds from the lower abdomen (for example, around 5 lbs in some cases), the main benefit is improved contour and appearance rather than significant weight reduction.
