Liposuction, Tummy Tuck, or Both?

Tummy tucks and liposuction are two of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries in the United States. When it comes to a poochy belly, which one is best? 

Here at Plastic Surgery Arts Center, lead cosmetic surgeon Dr. Jan Garcia and our team want you to understand which option is best for your aesthetic goals. In some cases, it’s not an either/or decision – both methods may be best for your body.

Let’s talk about the basics of liposuction, particularly the effective, modern version known as laser lipo, and tummy tucks – or abdominoplasty – to determine which method you should pursue to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

All about liposuction

Liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to remove localized fat deposits. It's an excellent option if you’re near your ideal body weight but have specific areas of fat that won't respond to diet and exercise. We perform liposuction on various body parts, including the abdomen.

Laser liposuction involves the use of laser energy to liquefy fat before it's suctioned out. It offers the benefit of reduced downtime and requires only local anesthesia.

About tummy tucks

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a more extensive surgical procedure that targets not only excess fat, but also loose or sagging abdominal skin and weakened muscles. We recommend it when you have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging-related changes that have left your abdominal area stretched and lax.

Comparing the two procedures

The ideal candidates for liposuction are those with good skin elasticity and localized fat deposits. The procedure requires small incisions, and the doctor inserts a cannula to suction out fat. 

Your recovery after liposuction typically takes a few days to a week. Traditional and laser liposuction result in a noticeable improvement in body contour, but they won't address loose skin or muscle separation.

In contrast, the ideal candidates for a tummy tuck have loose skin, stretched muscles, and excess fat. Dr. Garcia makes a larger incision to perform the tuck. He removes excess skin and tightens your abdominal muscles. He may also perform liposuction for additional contouring.

Knowing which option is right for you

How you refine your midsection depends on your unique goals and circumstances:

If you have localized fat deposits, liposuction, particularly laser liposuction, may be best way to achieve a smoother tummy. But, if you have excess skin and muscle laxity, a tummy tuck is likely the better choice.

Of course, Dr. Garcia and our team may recommend a combination of liposuction and a tummy tuck to get you comprehensive results. The two together remove excess fat, tighten muscles, and firm up loose skin.

Schedule a consultation here at Plastic Surgery Arts Center to learn more about how you can achieve a slim, contoured body. We thoroughly evaluate your individual anatomy, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable approach.

We recognize that your needs are unique, and we want to help you achieve your physique goals. Call today or use the online tool to book your appointment. 

Fall is a great time to refine your look! We’re offering 20% off laser lipolysis and other laser procedures, as well as 20% off facelifts, eyelid surgery, eyebrow lifts, Botox®, and fillers.