Fat accumulation in the abdominal area and loose, sagging skin around the tummy are common concerns among both men and women. Liposuction and tummy tuck or abdominoplasty are two major cosmetic surgery treatments available to address this condition. Patients will typically ask the plastic surgeon about which of the two procedures may be more suitable in their case to achieve a firmer, flatter, and smoother tummy.
An experienced cosmetic surgeon will explain the key differences between the two procedures and help a patient make an appropriate choice to meet their unique aesthetic needs. Dr. Brian J. Parker provides both liposuction and tummy tuck apart from other plastic surgery procedures to patients in Las Vegas and surrounding communities.
More Comprehensive Procedure
Tummy tuck cosmetic surgery is a more comprehensive procedure as compared to liposuction when the patient needs to achieve a flatter and smoother abdomen. Liposuction is designed to remove excess fat, but it may not help in tightening loose skin or repairing weak or separated underlying muscles in the abdomen. If the patient suffers from skin laxity due to aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy or other reasons, tummy tuck may be a more comprehensive plastic surgery choice.
A cosmetic surgeon will carefully evaluate the condition of the abdomen before recommending tummy tuck or liposuction. A wrong choice of procedure may result in flatter tummy, but the loose skin may hang and show folds and wrinkles. A full tummy tuck may be the only option particularly if the abdominal muscles are also weakened. Dr. Parker is a dedicated plastic surgeon providing both these procedures to patients in Las Vegas and nearby areas.
Less Complicated Procedure
Liposuction has grown in popularity over the years because the procedures is relatively less complicated, involves fewer risks, and has a quicker recovery. Innovative surgical techniques such as tumescent liposuction avoid the need for general anesthesia, which makes the procedure simpler. Scarring is minimal in liposuction, and the surgery can be performed typically on an outpatient basis. Most patients can go back to their regular activities or return to work within a week after liposuction.
Abdominoplasty, particularly when it involves tightening of underlying muscles, will be a more complicated surgery that should be performed by an experienced plastic surgeon only. The surgeon will try to keep the scar as low as possible in order to keep it inconspicuous, but it will usually be longer than in the case of liposuction. It may involve general anesthesia and an overnight stay at the hospital in some cases. Recovery period may be about two weeks.
Lasting Results
Results in case of both tummy tuck and liposuction can be long lasting as long as the patient maintains an active lifestyle and follows a healthy balanced diet. Neither of the procedures is a substitute for diet and exercise. Patients should also understand clearly that both tummy tuck and liposuction are body contouring procedures and not weight loss surgeries.
Ideal candidates, particularly for liposuction, are patients with a moderate body weight. Tummy tuck may sometimes be performed on patients who are overweight but do not have a problem of weight fluctuation.
If you would like to learn more about the plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, NV Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Brian J. Parker by contacting us at (702) 240-9500.