Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction
Excessive fat deposits occur most commonly in the waist area for both men and women. A variety of causes may be responsible for this condition, such as sedentary lifestyles, heredity, disease, pregnancy, or surgery. If the stubborn fat tissue in the abdominal area does not respond to diet and exercise, the next best course may be to opt for cosmetic surgery to restore a flatter and firmer abdomen.
Liposuction and tummy tuck surgery are two of the major procedures that are designed to reduce excess fat pockets in the abdominal area. Dr. Bryson Richards is a dedicated and experienced plastic surgeon providing both these procedures to patients in Las Vegas, NV and surrounding communities.
Key Differences
Liposuction and tummy tuck are distinct from each other in several ways. The surgeon will discuss the differences with the patient and help them make the right choice during pre-op consultations.
Removal of Excess Fat and Skin
Sometimes the problem of excess fats in the belly area may also lead to overstretched skin and separated underlying muscles, making the abdomen sag heavily. This condition can be corrected with tummy tuck plastic surgery, which is designed to address each of these aspects. Liposuction, on the other hand, is primarily meant to cut down excess fats, but does not involve skin or muscle tightening.
Complex Procedure
Complexity is usually higher in case of tummy tuck surgery as compared to liposuction. The procedure is generally performed under general anesthesia, and the duration of the procedure is longer. It will require a multi-pronged surgical approach to repair weak muscles, excise loose skin, and reduce excess fat tissue.
In contrast, liposuction surgery is a more conservative procedure, which is simpler and less invasive. However, the scope of liposuction is confined only to fat removal.
Length of Scars
Incision in case of tummy tuck surgery is usually longer, and in some cases, two incisions may be involved if both upper and lower abdomen needs to be addressed. The length of scar in case of liposuction will be smaller. Particularly, with tumescent liposuction technique, only minor scarring will occur due to very small incisions.
As an experienced cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Richards tries to ensure that the incisions are placed in discreet locations to keep the scars to the minimum. Patients in Las Vegas, NV and surrounding areas have an opportunity to receive both these procedures from Dr. Richards.
Duration of Recovery
In case of liposuction, the recovery period is relatively shorter due to smaller incisions. In about a week’s time, most patients will be ready to resume their daily activities or return to work. However, in case of a full tummy tuck surgery, the recovery period may range from about 10 to 14 days.
Candidates
Liposuction surgery is more suited for individuals who do not suffer from significant skin laxity, have moderate body weight, and only have fat accumulation in the abdomen, which is resistant to diet and exercise. Candidates for tummy tuck will generally have loose abdominal skin, muscle laxity, and fat deposits in the lower and upper abdomen.
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