Lipo vs. Tummy Tuck

Recently, a woman visited us at South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery and explained that she felt self-conscious of her midsection. After having three children, her stomach hadn’t “snapped back” to its pre-baby appearance. Friends of hers had mentioned tummy tuck and liposuction as possible solutions, but she was unsure which procedure was the better option.

As we do with every patient, we examined her problem areas, discussed her needs and helped her select the procedure most appropriate for her goals. Since this scenario is common, we know that other women may have the same questions. Our team thought it would be helpful if we explained the two options and their distinct differences.

More about Liposuction

Liposuction is designed to reduce or eliminate excess unwanted body fat. The plastic surgeon uses a long, thin tube called a cannula to break up fatty tissue and gently suction it from the body, leaving the treated area looking flatter and firmer. Liposuction can be used to contour the abdomen, as well as the hips, thighs, buttocks, back and upper arms.

Removing a substantial amount of fat can dramatically improve a patient’s physique, especially in the stomach area. The shape of the stomach looks more attractive and clothing fits better.

Liposuction may be a good option for you if:

• You have excess fat on your abdomen
• You have not been able to reduce or eliminate fat with diet or exercise
• Your abdomen is disproportionate to the rest of your body (larger than it should be)
• You have good skin elasticity

Liposuction is not a good option if:

• You have lots of loose abdominal skin left over from weight loss or pregnancy
• Your abdominal muscles have separated or weakened (usually from pregnancy)

More about Tummy Tuck

Tummy tuck is generally the more comprehensive treatment option. In addition to treating abdominal fat, the procedure also addresses problems with the abdominal skin and muscles. The procedural steps include eliminating excess abdominal fat, removing excess abdominal skin, tightening the remaining skin and repairing the muscles of the abdominal wall. In some cases, the belly button is relocated higher on the abdomen.

Tummy tuck may be a good option for you if:

• You have a thick abdominal fat layer
• You have skin laxity or excess skin that hangs off your abdomen
• Your abdominal muscles/wall are lax or protuberant

Tummy tuck is not a good option if:

• You are only concerned about excess abdominal fat
• You have good skin elasticity
• Your abdominal muscles are intact

Mini tummy tuck is a less invasive form of the traditional procedure that focuses on improving the area underneath the navel. To learn more about the differences between traditional and mini tummy tuck, request a consultation with our team.

Speak to Our Plastic Surgeons

The best way to determine which procedure is best for your needs is to schedule a personal consultation with our doctors. To make an appointment, please contact the Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery. You can reach us by calling (954) 565-7575.