Liposuction vs. Tummy Tuck: What's the Difference?
Both liposuction and tummy tucks are body contouring procedures that can restore a slimmer, more attractive profile. However, the procedures themselves provide different results, and one may be better than the other in your particular case.
MARIETTA, GA, January 01, 2012
Both liposuction and tummy tucks are body contouring procedures that can restore a slimmer, more attractive profile. However, the procedures themselves provide different results, and one may be better than the other in your particular case. By working closely with a board-certified plastic surgeon, you can determine which procedure will best meet your needs.Liposuction
Liposuction is a procedure during which excess fat is removed from your body. Liposuction can be performed on several areas of the body, including:
- Legs
- Hips
- Stomach
- Back
- Arms
- Chest
- Neck and Face
When liposuction is performed, a small incision is made in your skin, through which a thin tubular surgical instrument called a cannula is inserted. There are different types of liposuction, but all of them have the same goal: to remove stubborn fat deposits from targeted areas of your body. Liposuction is best for people who are close to their ideal weight, and simply need assistance removing small areas of fat that have proven resistant to diet and exercise.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is a complex surgical procedure that is often performed in conjunction with liposuction. There are different types of tummy tucks, all requiring different incisions. In general, your tummy tuck options are:
- A mini tummy tuck with a single incision above your pubic area
- A full tummy tuck with an additional incision around your navel
- An extended tummy tuck with an additional incision made from your navel, around your hips
- A circumferential body lift in which the additional incision goes around your entire mid-section to include your hips and back
With a tummy tuck, excess fat and skin are removed from your abdominal area and your muscles are sutured to create a tighter underlying structure. Remaining skin is then re-contoured and placed over your newly-tightened muscles to provide a firmer, more attractive appearance.
Tummy tucks are often best for people who have lost significant weight through procedures such as bariatric surgery. A tummy tuck is much more involved than liposuction, but is a better solution for people with a significant amount of excess skin.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your figure, you have several body contouring options. By working closely with an experienced plastic surgeon, the option most suited to meet your needs can be determined.
If you are considering a body sculpting procedure in Woodstock, Marietta, or Atlanta, Georgia, or anywhere in the Southeastern United States, please visit the website of the board-certified plastic surgeons at Marietta Plastic Surgery to see the many options we offer our patients at http://www.mariettaplasticsurgery.com.