Tummy Tuck or Liposuction?

Hi there! Are you looking to achieve a leaner physique by getting rid of extra weight around your midsection? If so, you may have considered plastic surgery as an option. Two popular procedures for addressing these concerns are liposuction and tummy tucks, but what are the differences between the two? Let's dive in and find out!

What is a Tummy Tuck?

First things first, it's important to note that liposuction and tummy tucks are not weight loss surgeries. Rather, they are designed to sculpt the body and improve its appearance.

Let's start with tummy tucks. During a tummy tuck, Dr. Raven Henderson, MD will make a lengthwise incision between your pubic area and belly button. This allows her to perform the muscle repair by stitching together the abdominal muscles. Excess skin is then trimmed away and the remaining skin is sutured together, resulting in a flatter and smoother stomach. With proper diet and exercise, the results of a tummy tuck can be permanent. However, it's important to note that substantial weight gain or loss can undo the results of the procedure.

Tummy tucks are more involved procedures compared to liposuction, as they not only remove excess fat but also involve muscle repair of the abdomen, movement of the belly button, and address excess skin.

So, who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck? If you are in good health and have stubborn fat on your midsection that hasn't responded to diet and exercise, and if your abdomen is sagging or protruding due to factors such as age, pregnancy, weight loss, or prior surgeries, you may be a suitable candidate for a tummy tuck.

What is Liposuction?

Now, let's talk about liposuction. Liposuction is a less invasive procedure compared to a tummy tuck and can be performed on various parts of the body, such as the stomach, back, arms, legs, and the chin.

During liposuction, a solution of saline, water, and anesthesia is injected into the targeted fat cells, which are then suctioned out using a cannula. The result is a more sculpted figure. Unlike a tummy tuck, liposuction does not remove excess skin, making it best suited for addressing small fat deposits. It's also worth noting that liposuction is not a weight loss surgery and should not be relied upon for drastic weight loss. Diet and exercise are still necessary to maintain the results, as liposuction does not prevent future weight gain.

Similar to a tummy tuck, a suitable candidate for liposuction is someone who is in good health and has stubborn fat deposits that have not responded to diet or exercise.

Some patients may benefit from a combination of liposuction of the abdomen and a tummy tuck. If this is the case, it is usually safer to stage the procedures by performing one procedure first and the second procedure later.

So, which procedure is right for you: a tummy tuck or liposuction? If loose skin is a concern, a tummy tuck may be the better option for you. However, if you're looking to address small pockets of fat around your midsection, liposuction may be more suitable. Dr. Raven Henderson, MD can help you decide which procedure is best for you during a consultation.

If you're ready to take the next step towards achieving the figure you've always wanted but need some guidance, we're here to help!

It is always advisable to consult your plastic surgeon and discuss your individual situation.

At RCH Plastic Surgery, Dr. Raven Henderson, MD provides personalized care and equips patients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions for the best possible outcomes.

Click below to contact us for your virtual or in office consultation today!