Tummy Tuck vs Liposuction: Which Is Right For You?
One of the most common questions we get asked from patients is: “Should I get a tummy tuck or liposuction?” Tummy tuck and liposuction are both extremely effective procedures for helping you improve your midsection. That being said, they both work in very distinct ways and address independent issues. So, when deciding which one is right for you, it is helpful to examine the differences between the two procedures.
Should I Get Liposuction?
Liposuction is generally most effective on patients who tend to have good muscle tone and skin elasticity but struggle with specific, persistent fatty areas. Liposuction can refine the patient’s figure and transform the patient’s look both in and out of clothes, which is often the main concern.
Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that targets stubborn fatty regions on the body. It can be performed in many different areas other than the stomach such as back bra roll, chin, thighs, etc. Since it is extremely precise at targeting specific locations on the body, liposuction is an easy way to shape and contour the stubborn fat areas that are unaffected by diet and exercise.
If a patient is dealing with stretch marks or loose skin around the midsection, liposuction will not address those issues. These symptoms are often associated with weight loss or pregnancy. Liposuction has the ability to remove the fat under these areas, but it will not affect the loose skin concerns.
Should I Get A Tummy Tuck?
Similar to liposuction, a tummy tuck will remove fatty deposits and reveal a less bulky stomach. However, a tummy tuck can also remove excess skin + stretch marks and even repair the abdominal muscles. Tummy tucks are customized to the patient’s unique goals and needs. The different types of tummy tuck procedures are: traditional, mini, endoscopic, extended, and circumferential, and they are chosen based on a patient’s specific desires for their body.
What Is A Mini Tummy Tuck?
A Mini Tummy Tuck is great for patients who have stretch marks or excess skin below the belly button and do not need muscle repair. This technique requires a small, horizontal incision above the pubic mound.
What Is A Full Tummy Tuck?
A Full Tummy Tuck is perfect for targeting excess fat, loose skin, and stretch marks above and below the belly button. This procedure requires a U-shaped incision around the pubic mound and allows the surgeon to simultaneously tighten a patient’s abdominal muscles.
What Is An Extended Tummy Tuck?
The Extended Tummy Tuck is ideal for patients who have recently lost weight or given birth, which has resulted in a lot of excess skin. This procedure requires the longest incision and does leave behind a scar, but many patients feel that the benefits of a firm, contoured stomach outweigh the minor setback of scarring. However, not to worry! Our team does provide complimentary scar products to assist in the healing process and you can easily disguise the incision underneath underwear or bikini bottoms.
Should I Get A Tummy Tuck Or Liposuction?
While both tummy tuck and liposuction are extremely effective body contouring operations, a patient must consider their individual needs before making their choice. If you’re trying to get rid of some stubborn fat areas on your body rather than excess or loose skin, then liposuction might be right for you. However, if your trouble is excess skin, stretch marks, and/or poor muscle tone as a result of rapid weight loss or pregnancy, then a tummy tuck might be the better option. Sometimes, the answer is a combination of both a tummy tuck and liposuction to achieve defined, contoured results!
Whatever procedure you consider, you shouldn’t make this decision without the assistance of a trained, experienced plastic surgeon. To find out which procedure is right for you or to get more information regarding liposuction vs tummy tucks in Orlando, schedule your virtual or in-person consultation with one of our plastic surgeons today!