Do you miss your pre-pregnancy body, or do you simply want to get rid of stubborn tummy fat? Maybe you lost weight and want to shed excess loose skin around your abdominal area? For these concerns, you have two primary options: tummy tuck and liposuction. 

In today’s blog, we’ll share with you what you need to know about tummy tuck and liposuction to give you an idea of which procedure is best for you.

Are Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Similar?

Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, and liposuction are two different surgical cosmetic procedures. However, they are similar in the sense that both aim to improve the appearance of an individual’s midsection. Both can be used to make your stomach become smaller, tighter, and flatter. Furthermore, both procedures are performed by plastic surgeons.

The differences between the two become clear in terms of the actual procedure, as well as the length of recovery.

How is Tummy Tuck Done?

In a tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon will put you to sleep through general anesthesia. Once you are fully sedated, they will make an incision at the bottom of the abdominal skin, which covers the abdominal wall.

If the muscles in the abdominal wall have been stretched out, the surgeon will sew those muscles together. Then, they will tightly pull the skin over the abdomen, cut off the excess, then close the incision.

A tummy tuck is done in one session and usually takes up to three hours.

How is Liposuction Done?

In liposuction, the surgeon may intravenously sedate you or apply local anesthesia to your midsection. Once the abdominal area is numb, the surgeon will make small incisions around the identified site of fat deposits. Then, they will insert a thin tube (cannula) through the incisions, moving it to loosen the fat cells. The surgeon will then use a medical vacuum to suction out the fat deposits that have been dislodged. 

Because not all fat deposits can be broken down in one session, it may take several sessions to achieve the desired result.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck and Liposuction?

Both tummy tuck and liposuction may be recommended to individuals who want to flatten and slim down their abdominal area. However, there are still some factors to consider that may make one more favorable than the other.

Who Should Get a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck removes both excess fat and skin. Pregnancy and significant weight changes can stretch out the abdominal skin. A tummy tuck can be done to restore the look and contour of the midsection.

Tummy tucks are great for people who:

• Have a body mass index (BMI) of over 30
• Are planning to get pregnant in the future
• Are actively working to lose weight
• Have a heart condition

On the other hand, liposuction may be a good choice for people looking to get rid of small fat deposits. Aside from the stomach area, liposuction can be done on the thighs, buttocks, and hips. Liposuction is not advised to be used as a weight-loss procedure, and it is not recommended for obese individuals. It is designed primarily to reduce fatty bulges and improve contour.

How Long Is the Recovery Process for Tummy Tuck and Liposuction?

Because a tummy tuck procedure is more invasive than liposuction, it requires a longer recovery period. After the procedure, the surgical area will be covered in a dressing, which is changed several times. You will also put on a belly binder, a type of compression garment. A day after the surgery, you will be advised to stand up and walk around (with assistance if needed) to prevent blood clotting. Surgical drains might also be used for up to two weeks after the surgery. 

In general, the initial recovery phase of a tummy tuck surgery takes about six weeks. You will also have to visit your doctor regularly so they can check how the incision is healing. While not completely healed, you will be asked to stay away from activities that will require you to bend or extend your midsection to avoid putting tension or pulling the incision. 

Meanwhile, the length of the recovery period for liposuction will depend on how many sessions were needed and how many areas were operated on. 

After each liposuction session, you can expect some swelling at the operation site, as well as some draining and bleeding. Your doctor may also require you to use a belly binder.

Since liposuction is less invasive than a tummy tuck, you can resume light activities within 48 hours after the surgery.

Want to Know Which is Best for You? Talk to Our Plastic Surgeon in Coral Gables

Tummy tuck and liposuction are both promising procedures if you are looking to have a mommy makeover in Miami, especially when it is done by a certified, experienced, and trusted plastic surgeon like Dr. Morad Askari of Revive Plastic Surgery & Anti-Aging Institute. He has the experience and qualifications to ensure the best results.

To offer you a complete makeover, we offer the following services:

• Hourglass tummy tuck in Miami
• Liposuction
• Breast lift in Miami
• Brazilian butt lift
• Thigh lift
• Arm lift

Let’s help you bring your body back! Schedule an appointment today so we can talk about your options. At Revive, you are in good hands!

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.