If you aren’t satisfied with the appearance of your midsection, cosmetic surgery may be a viable option to achieve a slimmer, more youthful figure. Tummy tucks and liposuction are both effective procedures for improving your abdominal appearance. However, these two surgeries have different purposes and benefits, and one may be a better fit for your needs than the other.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens loose muscles in the abdominal wall.
During a tummy tuck, an incision is made in the lower abdomen, and the skin and fat are lifted away from the abdominal muscles. The muscles are then tightened, and the excess skin and fat are removed. The remaining skin is then pulled down and sutured into place, resulting in a smoother, flatter stomach.
The primary benefits of a tummy tuck include:
- Firmer, tighter abdominal skin
- Eliminates excess skin and tissue from the midsection
- Tightens loose abdominal muscles
- Creates a slimmer, more youthful-looking figure
- Strengthens your core
- Improves mobility and athletic performance
- Relieves urinary incontinence
- Improved wardrobe options
- Increased self-confidence
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery that removes pockets of excess fat from specific areas of your body. This procedure is often used to remove stubborn fat that diet and exercise can't seem to get rid of.
During the liposuction procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions in the targeted area and use a suction device to remove fat cells. The procedure is typically performed using local anesthesia with IV sedation. Liposuction is often used to target areas such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and arms. However, it can be used to remove fat from almost any area of the body.
The main advantages of undergoing liposuction include:
- Eliminates stubborn pockets of excess fat
- Targets fat that you’ve been unable to eliminate with diet and exercise
- Less invasive than a tummy tuck
- Can be used to remove fat in almost any part of the body
- Creates a slimmer, more youthful-looking figure
- Improves mobility and athletic performance
- Increased self-confidence
Which Procedure Is Right for Me?
When deciding between a tummy tuck and liposuction, it's essential to understand the differences between the two procedures and which one is best suited for your needs. If you are looking to remove excess fat from your abdomen, liposuction may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you have excess skin or muscle laxity in your abdomen, a tummy tuck may be a better option.
It's essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which procedure is right for you. They will evaluate your medical history, current health, and aesthetic goals to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose the Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery for Your Procedure?
Whether you decide to have a tummy tuck or liposuction, selecting a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon is imperative. Doing so will ensure that you avoid serious complications and achieve the best possible results from your treatment. At the Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin are both board-certified plastic surgeons who take great pride in providing patients with breathtaking, natural-looking results.
