Should I Get a Tummy Tuck or Liposuction?
So, you’re ready to tackle those stubborn pockets of fat that you can’t seem to get to go away with diet and exercise. But where do you start? A growing number of people are choosing cosmetic surgeries, and the results are impressive. Tummy tucks and liposuctions are among the top 10 surgeries procedures for removing unwanted fat, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. But which one is better? In this article, we define liposuction and tummy tuck, discuss their benefits and help you decide which is best for you.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries. It is an invasive cosmetic surgery that removes excess fat and skin from the stomach area.
During the procedure, your surgeon will remove excess fat and skin and tighten the skin over the repositioned shape of your abdomen, resulting in a smoother, more toned appearance. Tummy tucks are commonly performed after pregnancy or weight loss to improve the abdomen’s appearance.
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical method of removing fat using specific tools depending on the area you’re concerned about. With this procedure, several areas can be treated at one time, such as the abdomen, legs, arms, and neck.
When people gain weight, fat cells increase in volume and size, but liposuction removes fat cells entirely, making it a great way to easily slim areas of stubborn fat. Liposuction has different methods that may be right for your budget, ability to take time to recover, or for the best results for your specific concern:
Tumescent liposuction: A standard procedure during which your surgeon injects a sterile solution to make suctioning fat easier with less pain and bleeding.
Ultrasound-Assisted liposuction: This technique ruptures fat cells with sound waves under the skin. It allows fat to be suctioned out by liquefying it, making the procedure easier and more efficient.
Laser-assisted liposuction: This procedure liquefies fat with bursts of energy produced by a laser.
With liposuction, contour changes are permanent for as long as you maintain a stable weight. After liposuction, the skin adjusts to the new contours created by removing fat pockets. When the skin tone is even and elasticity is good, your final results will appear smooth, but if the skin has poor elasticity, the skin may appear loose. This is why we always perform an in-depth consultation with people before they commit to any specific procedure, given their weight, skin quality, and goals from a procedure like liposuction.
Recovery Time: Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction
Tummy Tucks: Tummy Tuck is an invasive surgery procedure, and it can take up to six weeks to heal completely. During this time, drains may be inserted under your skin to collect excess fluids and assist the healing process. Additionally, it is recommended not to lift any heavy items or perform strenuous activities during this period.
Liposuction: This procedure is noninvasive, and recovery time will depend on the treated area. For some areas, the recovery time is 5-7 days, and full recovery can take 4-6 weeks. However, most procedures are quicker than tummy tucks.
Body Contouring in Grand Rapids, MI
Both tummy tucks and liposuction can improve the appearance of your stomach. However, which one is right for your concerns comes down to what you want, your goals, and factors like budget, recovery time, and the degree of correction required.
No matter which procedure you’re interested in, make sure you talk to qualified physicians in West Michigan. The doctors at Plastic Surgery Associates in Grand Rapids are here to help you figure out which procedure might be right for your goals and budget. Contact them online to learn more about these abdominal enhancement procedures today.
