Many of our patients seeking a flatter stomach come armed with one question – what is right for me – a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) or liposuction (body contouring)??
These two procedures are very different and the best option for you will depend on your specific circumstances and what you are trying to achieve. Skin and muscle laxity play an important role in determining the best approach, as do your individual goals/aspirations.
We asked Mr Mutimer, a well respected Melbourne Plastic Surgeon to explain the key differences and considerations:
LIPOSUCTION:
Liposuction is good for people who generally have good skin and muscle tone, and who want to remove localised fatty tissue and stubborn excess fat. Localised fat deposits may sometimes be an inherited trait and typically do not respond to dieting or exercise.
Liposuction will not eliminate extra skin, stretch marks or issues stemming from loose abdominal muscles.
Liposuction can be used on other areas of the body such as the arms, legs or bottom. Whilst both procedures require a general anaesthetic, liposuction is less invasive than a tummy tuck which involves a surgical incision and a longer recovery time.
TUMMY TUCK:
As mentioned above abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a more invasive procedure with a longer recovery time. It is generally recommended for patients who have stretched skin and/or loose stomach muscles (not excess fat).
This procedure uses an incision within the lower abdomen to remove the excess tissue and tighten associated muscles. It is because of the abdominal wall muscle reconstruction that a longer recovery time is required. Tummy tucks are often considered by people who have had significant weight loss or have abdominal issues following pregnancy.
It’s also important to know that some patients have a combination of excess fat, stretched skin and /or muscle laxity. In these situations people often opt for a combination procedure, having an abdominoplasty with liposuction at the same time.
WHICH PROCEDURE IS BEST FOR ME?
It is important to determine what specific issues you are faced with in order to then recommend which procedure is right for you. We recommend a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who will be able to assess your issues and advise the best course of action.
Generally, if you have localised areas of fat liposuction is the best course of action. For loose stomach muscles and/or sagging skin – a tummy tuck would likely be recommended.
For more information or to book a body contouring consultation feel free to call us on 03 9592 0522 or submit an enquiry via our website.
