Slimming Down With Surgery
When evaluating different cosmetic procedures, patients should focus on what needs to be corrected and ways to achieve that final look. A tummy tuck and liposuction are different procedures designed to help patients look skinnier and more toned. Depending on the desired outcome, each surgery has different pros and cons. Sometimes, a combination of both procedures is necessary to achieve a slim and tight abdomen.
What Is A Tummy Tuck?
Requested by both men and women alike, a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure that addresses issues with excess fat or skin. Sometimes referred to as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck contours the body by giving the abdominal area a sleeker and slimmer appearance. Tummy tucks are primarily used to tighten loose abdominal muscles.
Pursuing liposuction
With liposuction, excess fat is removed from the buttocks, legs, arms, thighs, stomach, or other problem areas. Fat cells are removed, and the surgical area becomes smaller, but liposuction does not remove excess skin. Due to loss of volume during the procedure, the skin loses elasticity and becomes loose. A tummy tuck can be added on to eliminate the sagging skin.
Asking the important questions
Before starting the surgery journey, patients should talk to a surgeon to discuss surgical options and address potential concerns. These questions will get the ball rolling and help patients understand the differences between a tummy tuck and liposuction.
1. Should I lose weight first?
This is an important question to ask. Many people believe surgery is a quick weight loss fix, and this is not the case. Doctors may suggest a patient lose weight before undergoing a tummy tuck or liposuction. Surgeons want patients to have a healthy weight and body mass index (BMI) before surgery. This reduces the chance of complications and helps patients develop realistic expectations for the surgery.
2. What type of tummy tuck do I need?
Different types of tummy tucks target different bodily concerns. A mini tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens muscles in the lower abdominal area. An extended tummy tuck eliminates the excess skin and fat from the upper and lower abdominal areas. Surgeons also remove fat from the flanks, the area along the upper abdomen towards the back, and tighten the muscles along the abdominal wall.
3. Is liposuction a better option?
There are several types of liposuction techniques, including laser and ultrasound-assisted liposuction. The most popular type of liposuction is tumescent. With this procedure, surgeons inject a medicated saline solution to ease the fat removal process. Surgeons choose a technique based on the patient’s desired goals.
Look better today
Whether a patient chooses a tummy tuck or liposuction, selecting a surgeon with experience performing the desired surgical procedure is essential. Patients should conduct research and schedule consultations with potential surgeons. A flat stomach can instill renewed confidence, and a tummy tuck and liposuction can both help achieve the look.
