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What is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) and a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) ?

What is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) and a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) ?

Perhaps you’ve been researching the tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure recently, and you’ve come to discover that there is also a mini version? But, what is the difference and which version is more applicable to your situation? Luckily, the friendly team at the Breast and Body Clinic are here to give you all of the information you need for considering choosing between the mini tummy tuck vs. tummy tuck scenario.

For those who are struggling with stubborn belly fat that is unresponsive to exercise and diet, often after pregnancy or massive weight loss, this is often due to the abdominal muscles getting stretched and remaining separated, a tummy tuck surgery may feel like the only option left. 

When considering the tummy tuck procedure, we always recommend booking a consultation with Dr. Yunaev so he can assess your situation and determine the best course of action for your particular needs and goals.  But the question still remains, which of the mini tummy tuck vs. tummy tuck procedure is right for me?

Which is Right For You?

Put simply; a mini-tummy tuck is better suited for people with good upper belly skin and muscle tone or when the issues are focused more in the lower abdomen area. If you are quite fit, and close to your ideal body weight, the mini tummy tuck may be the best option. Especially if you have no stretch marks or loose skin above your belly button. 

A full tummy tuck, which differs to liposuction, is the best course of action when you are dealing with loose abdominal muscles or large amounts of excess skin.

A Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck, is a very common abdominal contouring procedure in which an incision is usually made between the hip bones to remove excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen. Some cases may also require liposuction on the upper abdomen with the abdominal muscles also being repaired.

A full tummy tuck;

  • Removes excess skin
  • Repairs loose muscles in all areas of the abdomen
  • Dramatically transforms your body
Tummy tuck results 01, BB Clinic blog
Before and After Image of a Full Tummy Tuck performed by Breast and Body Clinic

Before and After Image of a Full Tummy Tuck Performed by Breast and Body Clinic. It is important to note, that while a tummy tuck procedure performed by Dr Michael Yunaev is safe, there are risks associated with any surgery. A full tummy tuck can result in hip-to-hip scarring and require some time off from work and avoiding substantial physical activity.

The Mini Tummy Tuck

As the name suggests, a mini tummy tuck procedure requires less downtime as a smaller four to eight-inch incision is made to remove any excess skin, and in some cases, small pockets of fat via liposuction. There are situations where the lower abdominal muscles can be tightened during a mini tummy tuck as well.

A mini tummy tuck will;

  • Leave less obvious scarring
  • Require less recovery time
Mini tummy tuck before and after 02, BB Clinic Sydney
Before and After Image of a Mini Tummy Tuck Performed by Breast and Body Clinic

Another point of difference, is that if your issues are found in the upper abdomen area, a mini tummy tuck will not be an appropriate procedure as it focuses its efforts below the navel.

Mini Tummy Tuck Vs. Tummy Tuck? We Can Help

While we hope that the above information has cleared up some of the differences between the mini tummy tuck vs. tummy tuck procedures, deciding which is best for your situation is not something you should decide on your own without a consultation with a trained professional. Book a consultation with Dr. Yunaev at the Breast and Body Clinic today to have your unique situation assessed and a clear path indicated.

Dr. Yunaev has performed many varying types of tummy tuck procedures and he will not only be able to explain the best option for matching your body goals with the right procedure, but he can also answer all of your questions so you are completely prepared and comfortable in making your decision.

A tummy tuck procedure can be a pathway to newfound confidence in your body, especially after undergoing a significant change like weight loss or pregnancy. Speak to our team today about how we can help you to feel comfortable with your body shape once again.

Have a question for Dr Yunaev on this procedure?

Your question will be answered within 24 hours by Dr Yunaev; a Specialist Breast and General Surgeon with extensive training and experience.


  • What is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) and a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) ?
  • What is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) and a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) ?
  • What is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) and a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) ?
  • What is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) and a Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) ?

“My team and I are committed to tailoring a personalised approach to you and your concerns so that you may benefit from our expertise and we can meet your expectations.” Dr Michael Yunaev
MS (Breast Surgery), BreastSurgANZ Breast Fellow, Aesthetic Breast and Body Fellow, FRACS (General Surgery), MPH, BMedSc (Hons).

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