By now, most anyone researching abdominoplasty (commonly known as a tummy tuck), knows what its purpose is and how it can benefit a patient looking to tone their mid-section. A new use for the mini-tummy tuck, however, is growing in popularity.

New mothers are using the mini-tummy-tuck after childbrith to tighten up their lower abdomens (the abdominal region most affected by pregnancy) and return their figure to their pre-pregnancy days.

With a mini-abdominoplasty, the incision is made below the waistline, and only about the size of a cessarian incission, so it is well hidden. A mini-tummy tuck differs most from a traditional tummy tuck in that there is no navel incision and only the loose skin is tightened, not the muscle.

Most plastic surgeons say however, that the majority of people who would require having a tummy tuck following weight loss or even childbirth, typically require a tradtional (full) tummy tuck. Many patients also require some amount of liposuction, accompanied with just about any tummy tuck procedure.

In the cases where new mothers do not require a full tummy tuck, the mini-abdominoplasty is a viable and beneficial option. The best way for you to know for sure is to consult a plastic surgeon, preferably certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and one who specializes in abdominal procedures.