Liposuction and Tummy Tuck- Which One Is Right For You?

Liposuction and tummy tuck are procedures that aim to change the appearance of the midriff that creates a more flattened stomach. But, both the procedures are different from another in terms of procedures, objectives, and results. Read the article to know more about both the procedures so that you can decide which one is the right one for you.

What is Liposuction?

The procedure of removing fat to improve the appearance of the body surgically is known as liposuction. Also known as lipoplasty or lipo, the aim of the procedure is to get rid of stubborn fat in targeted areas of the body when other non-surgical options to lose fat fail. Unlike other procedures, liposuction can be performed around the abdomen, hips, waist, outer and inner thighs, chin, and arms. In addition to removing fat, another feature of liposuction is sculpting the fat in proper proportions that enhances the body contour. However, this procedure cannot remove unwanted stretch marks or scarring.

What is Tummy Tuck?

The surgical procedure to remove the excess around the abdomen to get an improved contour of the midsection is known as abdominoplasty or tummy tuck. Sometimes due to a couple of factors, there is skin growth around the waist which is not easily reducible with diet or exercises. In this procedure, the muscles in the abdomen are tightened to decrease the sagginess of the skin. After the procedure is done, there are no visible signs of scarring or stretch marks.

How liposuction is performed?

With the advancement of technology, there are various types of liposuction currently available. Now, liposuction can be used with techniques such as ultrasound or vibration. In laser-assisted lipo, a laser beam is used to break the fat bonds from the body. In the VASER liposuction which is now a common type in various clinics in Delhi such as Pristyn Care, doctors insert small probes that emit ultrasound to break the fatty area. No matter which type is used, the overall main procedure remains the same. Here is a step-by-step procedure of VASER liposuction-

• During the surgery, an anesthetist administers anesthesia- local or general- through an intravenous channel to sedate the patient.
• Second, the doctor makes several small incisions through which they put a mixture of saline solution and an anesthetic into the fatty area.
• After this, the doctor inserts ultrasound probes through the small incisions that emit ultrasound waves. These waves break the fatty tissue into a liquid form.
• With the help of a cannula, the fat, as well as most of the mixture, is sucked out.
• The surgeon then closes the incisions with sutures or dissolvable glue.

How tummy tuck is performed?

A tummy tuck is performed under the influence of general anesthesia. Doctors make small incisions near the skin of the lower abdominal wall. After this, the surgeon stitches the abdominal muscles together to tighten them. Followed by this, the skin is either pulled over the abdomen, excess skin is trimmed and then the incisions are closed with sutures. The whole procedure takes two to three hours to complete and completed in one procedure.

Who should consider undergoing liposuction?

Ideally, liposuction should be chosen by people looking to remove small pockets of fat, especially around the hips, thighs, butts, or the waist area. As mentioned above, the main objective is to remove excess fat from the pre-decided area that sharpens the overall body and improves contour. Experts say that the best candidates for liposuction are those who are within 20lbs of their ideal body weight.

Who should consider undergoing tummy tuck?

On the other hand, sometimes undergoing liposuction is not sufficient as there is excess skin that loosens once the fat is removed. In such cases, the individual should consider a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck is recommended to remove excess skin around the waist or tummy. Women after pregnancy or individuals who have undergone massive shapeshifting have loosened tissues around the stomach. Hence, a tummy tuck can restore a toned and slimmer look of the midsection. People who have a BMI over 30 or women who are planning to conceive again should reconsider the decision of undergoing liposuction.

Results expected after liposuction

After liposuction, the abdomen or the specified parts flatten. Results after liposuctions are permanent in nature. The overall body contour is improved that gives a boost to the self-confidence of the patient. People are able to live lives to the fullest. However, according to one study, fat deposits reappeared within a year when proper restrictions were not followed.

Results expected after tummy tuck

The results after a tummy tuck are permanent in nature. Also, the procedure strengthens the abdominal muscles as well as strengthens the abdominal wall. Unless the patient gains additional weight or gets pregnant, the results continue to be so.

Recovery after liposuction

Once the liposuction is complete, the patient can go back home on the same day of the surgery. Depending on the factors such as the patient’s healing abilities, ability to bear the pain, type of liposuction undergone as well as the volume of fat removed, the actual recovery can vary. With proper instructions and wearing a compression garment, the patient recovers within 3-4 weeks after the procedure. Here are some tips to consider-

• Do not perform any vigorous activities of any sort.
• Eat nutritious foods that can prevent constipation.
• Take rest for at least 8-9 hours to promote.
• Do not take part in any contact sports
• Put some extra pillows and sleep with the head elevated at a 45-degree angle
• Do not move or bend to prevent any damage to the wound.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Do not wear tight-fitting clothes

Recovery after tummy tuck

The complete recovery after tummy tucks takes six weeks or more. During the entire recovery, it is important to take proper precautions. Meanwhile, avoid lying any position that includes bending backward or extending from the abdomen, or else it can strain the incision. In addition to this, do not perform any strenuous physical activity or exercise that can cause staining.

Conclusion

Liposuction removes unwanted fat while tummy tuck removes excess skin around the abdomen. Some individuals undergo liposuction along with tummy tuck to reap the benefits of both the procedures. This provides a complete makeover to the overall shape of the body. As the results are permanent, research thoroughly including the side effects and cost of both the procedures. Also, these are major procedures, hence contact with well-experienced and specialized doctors only.