A mini tummy tuck requires general anesthesia and is performed as an outpatient procedure in our fully-accredited surgical suite. Once asleep, Dr. Pittman makes a single incision just above the pubic mound, through which excess skin and fat are removed. Liposuction may be used in this process. The amount of tissue removed is minimal, does not involve the belly button, and the stomach muscles are not tightened. This single incision is often called a bikini incision because the surgical scar can be hidden effectively by a bikini or underwear. The surgery can last from one to three hours and patients can experience a full recovery within four weeks.