3 Differences Between Abdominoplasty and Liposuction

If you’re considering utilizing a cosmetic procedure to improve the aesthetics of your midsection, it is likely that you’ve stumbled upon both abdominoplasty (also known as the tummy tuck) and liposuction as potential options. While both attempt to help you achieve your desired stomach, the two are quite different. Here are 3 key differences between abdominoplasty and liposuction.

3 Key Differences

The procedure itself

Abdominoplasty is done by making an incision that exposes the muscle of the midsection. Your doctor will then tighten the muscles of the stomach by pulling them together and using stitching to position them and achieve a more firm and toned appearance. Excess skin will be trimmed, and the skin itself is then smoothed and tightened with a downward pulling motion. Excess fat may be removed via liposuction during this procedure as well.

Liposuction, on the other hand, uses a long, thin tube called a cannula. It is positioned beneath the skin, loosening excess tissue. Your doctor will then utilize a medical suctioning device to remove the dislodged fat cells.

Both short and long term results

With Dr. Fortes, you can anticipate amazing outcomes with either surgery. While both successful, these outcomes will not be identical due to the differences between the two procedures.

Liposuction results consist of fat removal from problem areas to reveal a slimmer figure. Abdominoplasty eliminates excess fat in a similar manner, but further removes extra skin and reinforces and tones the abdominal wall. This result is more than just a reduction in body fat; it is an actual restructuring of the stomach to achieve an aesthetic midsection.

While both abdominoplasty and liposuction are considered permanent solutions, they are both affected by a patient’s lifestyle moving forward from the procedure. The fat cells that are eliminated during liposuction are fortunately gone for good. But, your future lifestyle will determine your long-term results, as fat cells can always be gained once again through poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Even if fat cells are redistributed slightly differently than before, they can nevertheless reverse the effects of your earlier liposuction.

Abdominoplasty bears the same potential issue. It is a permanent treatment, but your future lifestyle may have negative consequences. Severe weight gain can not only put on more fat, but the abdominal wall can be damaged and stretched due to its surface area being significantly minimized during the tummy tuck procedure. Pregnancy can lead to this issue, so if you plan on becoming pregnant it’s best to hold off on a tummy tuck for the time being.

Recovery

When comparing liposuction and abdominoplasty, the recovery is the most significant distinction. Liposuction recovery depends on the number of treated regions. Within a few days, the majority of people may return to a conventional office job. But, if your profession calls for heavy movement or lifting, you may be required to wait a few weeks.

Abdominoplasty is considerably more taxing on the body and necessitates a more rigorous recuperation. You will be provided with a compression garment to wear for up to six weeks. At this time, your mobility will be restricted and you will be unable to engage in strenuous exercise or lifting.

Candidacy for Abdominoplasty and Liposuction

Ideal candidates for abdominoplasty have a body mass index of 30 or less and are not actively attempting to shed weight. This applicant would also not have any cardiac issues or future pregnancy ambitions. While there are no true pregnancy hazards that could affect the baby, the pregnancy-induced weight gain could cause problems for the newly formed abdomen. Your abdomen could potentially rip and require corrective surgery.

A suitable candidate for liposuction will have pockets of extra fat that resist diet and exercise. It is also recommended to be within 25 to 30 pounds of your optimum weight. This surgery is intended for fat removal, not weight loss as a whole. An excessive amount of liposuction would result in a severe excess of skin and necessitate subsequent treatments.

Call Dr. Fortes Today

If you feel that you may be an ideal candidate for either abdominoplasty or liposuction, give Dr. Fortes a call today. We can walk you through both processes, determine which is potentially right for you, and put together a plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.