12 Sep Tummy Tuck + Liposuction = The Ultimate Results
A tummy tuck and liposuction are two very different procedures, but they pair perfectly together. Most patients at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center opt for liposuction when they get a tummy tuck even when there isn’t a large amount of fat to be removed in this area. The reason is simple: a tummy tuck is a relatively invasive surgery that allows you to easily add on liposuction (often with no additional incision) so that you can contour and sculpt your stomach to an ideal outcome. Liposuction is the only way to immediately and permanently remove unwanted fat. Even though this procedure can be used to remove relatively large amounts of fat, it is also a great option for precise contouring—especially in an area like the stomach where it is so difficult to achieve muscle definition.
Let’s take a look at the difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction. A tummy tuck is a surgical method for removing excess skin on the abdomen. Suitable for both men and women, a full tummy tuck addresses laxity across the abdomen and usually requires the “creation” of a new bellybutton. The length of the incision varies, but a full tummy tuck will often call for a thin incision from hip bone to hip bone (hidden below the belt line). Some people are better suited for a mini tuck. This kind of tummy tuck only addresses laxity below the bellybutton. The incision is smaller, recovery is shorter, and there is usually no need to create a new bellybutton. However, few people only have laxity below the bellybutton, so a mini tuck is rare.
Love for Liposuction
Liposuction surgically removes unwanted fat via a type of vacuum method. It can be used virtually anywhere on the body, but unsurprisingly the stomach is a popular area. The tool is so small that liposuction scars are no wider than the width of your fingernail. However, when combined with a tummy tuck, given the incision necessary for a tuck it is quite easy for your surgeon to access the targeted fat during surgery and remove it with liposuction. Once fat is removed with liposuction, it can never “grow back.”
Diet and exercise shrink fat cells while liposuction actually removes them. The combination of fat removal and excess skin removal can give you that taut, toned, youthful stomach you desire. “Just” removing excess skin with a tummy tuck without the added benefit of liposuction can still give you a taut stomach, but pockets of fat can remain. Depending on the distribution of fat, lack of liposuction can lead to a non-flat outcome. Plus, for those who are fit and relatively slender, not getting liposuction can get in the way of being able to show off the abs you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
Ultimately, liposuction is recommended to most people getting a tummy tuck regardless of your weight, size, and fitness level. It is very common for even athletic individuals to have stubborn fat on their stomach. Liposuction is quick and relatively easy compared to a tummy tuck, adding little time to your time in surgery.
What to Expect with Liposuction
Surprisingly, even though liposuction is much less invasive compared to a tummy tuck (and many other cosmetic surgeries), the bruising and related discomfort can be surprising. However, the majority of bruising, swelling, and discomfort related to liposuction is brief. The majority of bruising fades within 2 – 4 weeks and, when on your stomach, is easy to hide. You may also experience numbness, whether related to the liposuction, tummy tuck, or both. This is also normal and will subside in time.
Compression garments should be worn whenever you aren’t showering for at least six weeks after the surgery. Your surgeon will tell you exactly how long to wear these garments (which can be compared to Spanx). It’s a good idea to have at least two of these garments so a clean one is always available. These garments help reduce swelling, bruising, encourage your body to take its new, more svelte shape, and keep you comfortable.
Now that you know the basics of tummy tuck and liposuction, the next step is scheduling a consultation with your local top surgeon. Get in touch with Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center today to book your consult. Simply call the office or, for the quickest response, complete the online contact form right now.