Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgeries are extremely popular cosmetic procedures. According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, tummy tuck surgery was the fifth most popular cosmetic procedure in 2008, with 120,000 surgeries performed.
A "mini" tummy tuck is a variation of this procedure, and can be a suitable option for many. The cost of a mini abdominoplasty can vary greatly, depending on several factors. If you are interested in this surgery, it is important to educate yourself on all the aspects, including the cost.
Mini Tummy Tuck Defined
A mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure performed for the purposes of body contouring, and is ideal for people who have excess fat and "bulging" between their naval and pubic bone. The bulging in the lower abdomen is generally caused by damage to muscles, and this damage often occurs during pregnancy. During the mini tummy tuck, the surgeon will tighten the lower abdominal muscles, excise any loose skin, and perform liposuction to remove the excess fat.
Mini vs. Full
This surgical body contouring procedure is effective for men or women whose conditions are not severe enough for full abdominoplasty but are too much for liposuction alone. Therefore, the mini tummy tuck is generally less expensive than a traditional abdominoplasty. Also, since only the lower half of the abdomen is being repaired, the surgical time is much less, usually 2-3 hours. A mini tummy tuck also leaves patients with a shorter and less visible scar.
Breakdown of Cost
It's important to consider the total cost of a mini tummy tuck. Generally the plastic surgeon's office will present you with a price quote for the entire surgery. This usually an all-inclusive estimate and involves the surgeon's fee, the cost of the hospital or surgery center, cost of any garments and supplements, and the cost of the anesthesia. Based on these factors, the total cost of the surgery can greatly vary; for example, the fees charged by surgeons and anesthesiologists vary, as do those of hospitals. Don't be afraid to ask your surgeon or his staff to explain all of the fees.
Varying costs of a Mini Tummy Tuck
The total approximate cost of a mini tummy tuck in the U.S. can range from about $3,000 to $10,000. Again, the price depends upon several factors, including your region, the experience of your surgeon, and the cost of your specific surgical facility.
Considerations
The costs above are averages and estimates. It is important to understand that each surgeon has his own pricing. Researching the cost of plastic surgery in your area is important, but it is even more important to choose a board certified, experienced, and reputable plastic surgeon. Be wary of those who offer a very low price---but you also don't necessarily need to choose the most expensive surgeon. Schedule initial consultations with several surgeons to be evaluated. Be open to the idea that you may not be a candidate for the mini tummy tuck procedure, and that you may need additional surgery to achieve your desired outcome. The decision to undergo a mini tummy tuck is exciting, but the best candidates are those who are educated in all aspects of the procedure.
