Liposuction and tummy tuck surgery are both cosmetic procedures that can improve the appearance of the abdomen. However, these two procedures are distinctly different in terms of candidacy, procedure, recovery, and results. This blog will compare and contrast liposuction and tummy tuck surgery and provide guidance about which may be a good fit for you.
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a minimally invasive body contouring surgery designed to remove unwanted pockets of fat. The procedure involves making small incisions in the treatment area and inserting a cannula to dissolve and suction out fat cells.
Liposuction can be performed almost anywhere on the body, but common areas for treatment include the abdomen, back, “love handles,” hips, thighs, arms, and under the chin. Dr. Gabriel Chiu offers liposuction as well as liposculpture, which is an advanced form of liposuction used to sculpt defined contours in targeted areas.
Am I a Candidate for Liposuction?
Good candidates for liposuction are those who:
- Have excess pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise
- Are within 30 pounds of their goal weight
- Have excellent skin elasticity
Since liposuction is a fat removal procedure, good skin elasticity is essential. Poor skin elasticity could result in loose skin that would require additional surgery to remove.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a body contouring procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. This surgery can also be used to repair weakened abdominal muscles (diastasis recti).
A traditional tummy tuck involves an incision on the lower abdomen from hip to hip, removal of fat and excess skin, muscle repair, and navel repositioning. There are, however, several variations on the traditional, or full, tummy tuck. Dr. Chiu is trained in various abdominoplasty techniques, including the full tummy tuck, the mini tummy tuck, the reverse tummy tuck, and the modified tummy tuck.
Am I a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Good candidates for tummy tuck surgery ideally:
- Have excess fat and loose skin around the abdomen
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of less than 30
- Are close to their goal weight
- Do not have plans for future pregnancies
While you can still become pregnant after a tummy tuck, a pregnancy can reverse your results and require another surgery to repair the abdominal wall.
Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction
Aside from candidacy and surgical techniques, other key differences between liposuction and tummy tuck surgery include recovery, results, and cost.
Recovery
Liposuction recovery depends on how many areas were targeted, the amount of fat removed, the technique used, and other factors. Still, most patients feel ready to return to work at a desk job within 5–7 days.
Tummy tuck recovery is longer and more involved due to the incision and extent of correction. Patients typically require a longer resting period, often needing 10–14 days off from work.
Both procedures typically require the use of compression garments and follow-up visits.
Results
Fat reduction with liposuction results in more slender, defined contours in the targeted areas, which can include the abdomen and flanks for a more sleek abdominal contour.
A tummy tuck also removes fat, but it can also target loose or stretched skin. If muscle repair is involved, then a tummy tuck can result in a stronger core. The result is transformative: a flat stomach and toned abdomen, with smoother, tighter skin.
Cost
Liposuction is generally less expensive than tummy tuck surgery since it’s minimally invasive and less extensive. However, body contouring costs can vary widely depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s needs and goals. At a consultation, Dr. Chiu and his team will provide you with a detailed pricing estimate tailored to your specific surgical plan and answer any questions you may have. Dr. Chiu also offers financing options to his patients in Beverly Hills to facilitate any aesthetic journey.
Which Is Right For Me?
If you have excess skin around the abdomen or diastasis recti, a tummy tuck would allow for the most correction, providing a total transformation of your midsection.
If you have good skin elasticity and want to target excess fat pockets in the lower belly, as well as elsewhere on the body, liposuction may be the best option for you.
Many patients also choose to combine the two surgeries for the most comprehensive abdominal sculpting. This is known as lipoabdominoplasty, and often yields stunning results.
The best way to determine which option is best for you is to schedule a consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Chiu.
Learn More About Tummy Tuck and Liposuction in Beverly Hills, CA
Body contouring is an exciting and transformative opportunity to enhance your aesthetic and increase your confidence. If you are considering liposuction or tummy tuck surgery, your first step should be to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon. Dr. Gabriel Chiu is an industry-leading, board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills who uses advanced techniques to help his patients achieve the results they desire. To schedule a consultation, call Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery™ (310) 888-8087 or fill out the online contact form.