Daily exercise and a balanced diet are the key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. However, even when it feels like you’re doing everything right, some areas are prone to holding onto stubborn fat and loose skin. This can be frustrating when you’ve worked hard to reach a particular goal.
Cosmetic procedures like liposuction and tummy tuck are effective ways to remove fat pockets and loose skin, allowing you to achieve the body you have been wanting. But which procedure is the right choice for you?
Discover the key differences between liposuction and tummy tuck to determine which cosmetic procedure can help you achieve your desired results.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body. Though not a weight loss procedure, it is beneficial for patients who have previously found that exercise alone is not helping them achieve their goals. Liposuction can be used on multiple areas of the body, including:
- Abdomen
- Back
- Arms
- Legs
- Hips
Procedure
The liposuction procedure involves injecting the area with a lidocaine and epinephrine solution, which acts as an anesthetic and constricts the blood vessels to reduce bruising. Then, utilizing a tool called a cannula, the surgeon will remove the targeted fat cells. In some cases, ultrasound energy may be used to liquefy the fat, making it easier to remove.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, can flatten the stomach by removing excess fat and loose skin. It can also be used to tighten the abdominal muscles, which tend to separate during pregnancy or with excess weight.
Procedure
During a tummy tuck, the surgeon pulls together the abdominal muscles and stitches them together. The skin is then pulled down, and any excess skin is removed. The navel will be moved upward if needed to ensure it appears natural. Finally, the incisions are closed.
Choosing the Right Procedure for You
Lipoplasty may be ideal for patients looking to remove excess fat in areas other than the stomach, while a tummy tuck may be recommended for patients looking to make their stomach appear tightened and toned. However, you can also combine the procedures or even opt for a mini tummy tuck.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Stuart Lipton in Lewisville, TX, today. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, he can provide you with expert advice based on your goals. Call (972) 420-0023 to get started.
