Choosing the Right Type of Tummy Tuck for You

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When it comes to abdominal contouring, a tummy tuck—or abdominoplasty—is a transformative option for those looking to tighten loose skin, repair muscle separation, and achieve a smoother, more toned midsection. But not all tummy tucks are the same. Depending on your anatomy, skin laxity, and surgical goals, there are several types of tummy tucks to consider—including a mini tummy tuck, full tummy tuck, extended tummy tuck, circumferential lower body lift, and the fleur-de-lis technique.

In this guide, Dr. Victoria Aimé, a plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, AZ, walks through each type to help you understand your options.

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Types of Tummy Tucks Explained

Mini Tummy Tuck

Best for: Patients with mild skin laxity in the lower abdomen

The mini tummy tuck is ideal for those with a small amount of loose skin or a stubborn “pooch” below the belly button—often the result of a C-section or mild aging. The incision is typically a little bit longer than a C-section scar and placed low on the abdomen. This version does not reposition the belly button or typically involve muscle tightening, making it less invasive.

• Performed under local anesthesia
• Minimal downtime—many patients return to daily activities within days

Full (Classic) Tummy Tuck

Best for: Patients with loose skin above and below the belly button and muscle separation (diastasis recti)

The full tummy tuck is the most common option, especially for moms or anyone who’s had significant abdominal changes. It involves a hip-to-hip incision low on the abdomen and often includes:

• Muscle repair (if needed) to restore the core
• Removal of excess skin and fat
• Repositioning the belly button
• Refinement of the mons pubis area

The result is a flatter, more contoured abdomen and a refreshed silhouette.

Extended Tummy Tuck

Best for: Patients with excess skin and fat that extends beyond the front of the abdomen

An extended tummy tuck includes all the elements of a full tummy tuck but extends the incision around the flanks to address skin laxity extending onto the hips. It’s commonly recommended to patients with moderate to severe loose skin or post-weight loss changes. The extended reach helps contour the waistline better and decreases the risk of skin bunching at the end of the scar (called a dog ear).

Circumferential Tummy Tuck (Lower Body Lift / Belt Lipectomy)

Best for: Patients with massive weight loss and significant skin laxity around the entire midsection

This advanced procedure is the most comprehensive, involving a 360-degree incision that continues around the back. It lifts not only the front of the abdomen but also the flanks, lateral thighs, and buttocks. Ideal for post-bariatric or significant weight loss patients, it offers dramatic reshaping.

• Longer recovery (4–6 weeks)
• Often combined with muscle repair and liposuction

Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck

Best for: Patients with vertical and horizontal skin excess, typically after massive weight loss

The fleur-de-lis technique is used when skin laxity is both vertical and horizontal, resulting in a vertical incision in addition to the standard horizontal one. This allows for removal of more skin in the central abdomen and creates tighter contouring through the midline.

Increased scar burden, but often necessary for best results in significant weight loss or high BMI patients

Recovery Considerations

Recovery varies based on the extent of surgery:

• Mini tummy tuck: 2–5 days to resume normal activities
• Full/extended/body lift/fleur-de-lis: 2 weeks minimum off work, 4–6 weeks for full recovery
• Drain-free options are typically used unless significant liposuction is added
• Exparel (a long-acting numbing medication) is used to enhance comfort

Dr. Aimé recommends planning for at least two weeks off from work and avoiding strenuous activities until cleared.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tummy tuck depends on your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle. Whether you’re addressing a small lower belly concern or seeking dramatic reshaping after weight loss, there’s a technique that can help restore your confidence.

Still not sure which option is best for you? Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Aimé to explore your body contouring possibilities.