Your body changes as you age. A little pocket of flab appears at the base of the belly, and no matter how you eat right or exercise, it just won't go away. This can be distressing for anyone, but there is something you can do about that pouch.

These days, it's not uncommon for people to counteract the ravages of aging with plastic surgery. Thousands go in for some type of minor plastic surgery to get rid of unwanted fat, wrinkles or blemishes. The only problem is that plastic surgery can be quite expensive. A tummy tuck can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. With many other things to consider, that can be a little costly.

The good news is that there's an alternative. It's called the "mini-tummy tuck." It is a quicker, easier and cheaper alternative for those patients who are eligible for it.

Is a Mini Tummy Tuck Right for You?

While the full procedure reduces fat all over the abdomen, the mini tummy tuck focuses on a particular area. Usually, this is the spot right under the belly button and right above the pubic bone. If you are in reasonable shape overall and have just a little pouch just south of your belly button, you may be eligible for this targeted procedure. For you, it means a shorter operation and lower cost.

Of course, it all depends on what your doctor says during the consultation. Go in for a free consultation to see if the procedure will benefit you.

How Much Does a Mini Tummy Tuck Cost?

The average cost of a mini tummy tuck is $2,000, although it may cost less or it may cost more. This price tag makes it one of the cheapest plastic surgery procedures available.

Exactly how much your surgery will run you depends on a variety of factors. You won't know for sure unless you go in for a consultation. However, it is very important to keep a few things in mind about the consultation. The price your plastic surgeon quotes you may or may not include extra fees. Some of these fees are for anesthesia, hospital time, tests and other charges. The surgeon's fee is usually anywhere from 60-80% of the overall cost, so if the price they quote you seems low, it may not include everything.

When you get a quote from your doctor, be sure you know what that charge does and doesn't include. Some other factors also influence your price. These include:

- Anesthesia. For most mini tummy tucks, plastic surgeons use local anesthesia. This means that you are semi-conscious during the operation. This brings the cost of anesthesia way down. Anesthesia that puts you totally out during the operation is more expensive.

- Operating facility. Mini tummy tucks are such small operations, that many plastic surgeons prefer to do them in the office. Others like to use a hospital for the operation. If you can have your mini tummy tuck done in the doctor's office, you can save on hospital fees.

- Recovery period. Make sure you follow your doctor's instructions during the recovery period. Side effects and complications during healing can mean return visits to the doctor, and that means more costs.

- Location. Prices vary from state to state, country to country, and even from one plastic surgeon to another in one city. If you are willing to travel to another state, you might be able to save.

- Accreditation. Doctors that are accredited charge more, and you should never go with an un-accredited doctor in order to save money. The risks are just too great. This is one area where it's worth it to pay a little more.

So, you don't have to beat yourself up to get rid of that pouch. Shop around. You may be able to get rid of that pesky little bubble of flab for a reasonable price!