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Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Which One Is Right for You? | Las VegasStruggling with a belly bulge that won’t go away, no matter how much you diet or exercise? You’re not alone. When it comes to sculpting a flatter, firmer abdomen, two of the most popular procedures are the tummy tuck and liposuction. But which is right for you? Board-certified plastic surgeon  Dr. Bryson Richards  provides tummy tuck and liposuction to patients in Las Vegas, NV, and surrounding locations.

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that:

  • Removes excess skin

  • Tightens stretched or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)

  • May remove some stretch marks, particularly those below the navel

It’s ideal for patients who’ve experienced:

  • Pregnancy-related muscle separation

  • Significant weight loss with loose or hanging skin

  • Aging skin laxity

A tummy tuck often includes repositioning the belly button and is commonly combined with liposuction for optimal contouring.

What Is Liposuction?

Liposuction targets localized fat deposits through small incisions. A thin cannula is inserted to suction out unwanted fat. It’s ideal for:

  • Patients at or near their ideal weight

  • Areas like love handles, flanks, thighs, or lower abdomen

  • Good skin elasticity (so the skin can bounce back after fat removal)

Liposuction does not address loose skin or muscle separation.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Key Differences

Feature Tummy Tuck Liposuction
Skin tightening Yes No
Muscle repair Yes No
Fat removal Moderate Yes
Scarring Longer, hip-to-hip Small, hidden incisions
Downtime 2–3 weeks 1–2 weeks

Can You Combine Both?

Absolutely. Many patients benefit from combining liposuction with a tummy tuck—liposuction for contouring, and the tummy tuck for skin tightening and core repair.

Which One Is Right for You?

  • If you have loose skin or stretched muscles, a tummy tuck is likely the better option.

  • If your skin is firm but you have stubborn fat pockets, liposuction may be all you need.

  • If you have both concerns, a combination offers the most dramatic results.

Contact Las Vegas Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Richards to Schedule a Consultation

If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070

Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City,  Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.

Mommy Makeover: What to Expect Before, During, and After SurgeryMotherhood is one of life’s most rewarding experiences, but it often comes with dramatic changes to the body. Sagging breasts, loose abdominal skin, stubborn fat, and stretch marks are common concerns after pregnancy and breastfeeding. A Mommy Makeover is a customizable procedure designed to help mothers restore their pre-pregnancy body—and their confidence. Board-certified plastic surgeon  Dr. Bryson Richards  provides mommy makeover to patients in Las Vegas, NV, and surrounding locations.

What Is a Mommy Makeover?

A Mommy Makeover isn’t a single procedure, but rather a combination of surgeries tailored to your unique post-pregnancy body. Most commonly, it includes:

  • Breast Augmentation or Lift: To restore volume, correct sagging, or improve symmetry.

  • Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): To tighten loose abdominal skin and repair separated muscles.

  • Liposuction: To contour stubborn fat areas like the flanks, hips, or thighs.

  • Other Enhancements: Some patients also add labiaplasty or skin treatments for a more comprehensive transformation.

Before Surgery: What to Expect

Preparation is key to a smooth Mommy Makeover journey. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your medical history, lifestyle, and goals. You’ll discuss:

  • Which procedures are right for you

  • Expected outcomes and limitations

  • Risks and recovery timelines

  • Whether you’re done having children (future pregnancies can impact results)

Leading up to surgery, you’ll need to:

  • Quit smoking and avoid certain medications

  • Maintain a stable weight for 6 months

  • Arrange time off work and help at home, especially for childcare

  • Prep your home with essentials for recovery (pillows, medications, ice packs, loose clothing)

During Surgery

The Mommy Makeover is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on the procedures. Your surgeon will use strategically placed incisions to minimize scarring and enhance aesthetics. In most cases, it’s performed as an outpatient procedure, though some patients may stay overnight.

After Surgery: Recovery and Results

Recovery varies based on the extent of your procedures, but here’s a general timeline:

  • First week: Expect swelling, bruising, and fatigue. You’ll need help with basic tasks.

  • Weeks 2–3: Gradual return to light activities. Compression garments are worn to reduce swelling.

  • 4–6 weeks: Resume most normal activities, but avoid intense exercise.

  • 3–6 months: Swelling continues to resolve, and final results become visible.

Is a Mommy Makeover Worth It?

For many patients, the answer is a resounding yes. The transformation can be both physical and emotional, helping women feel confident, comfortable, and like themselves again.

Contact Las Vegas Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Richards to Schedule a Consultation

If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070

Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City,  Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.