Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction
As swimsuit season approaches, many patients seek body contouring procedures to help them achieve the beach body they’ve been wanting. Body contouring procedures eliminate isolated fat and excess skin areas that regular exercise and dieting cannot fix. Liposuction and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) are the two most common body contouring procedures available for patients who are in overall good health. Both of these procedures enhance a patient’s appearance, but most patients are often unsure about the differences between liposuction and tummy tuck. Athens plastic surgeons Dr. Ed Pittman and Dr. Chelsea Venditto explain the differences and what type of results are best achieved by each procedure.
When it comes to choosing a body procedure, Dr. Ed Pittman and Dr. Chelsea Venditto meet with each patient to discuss aesthetic goals and to educate them on the options available at our AAAHC accredited surgical center. Skin elasticity, excess skin, and areas of isolated fat are all factors to consider. Liposuction is more commonly recommended for patients with small amounts of unwanted fat in different parts of the body. Popular treatment areas include the hips, abdomen, flanks (love handles), chin, and arms. This procedure is not a weight-loss tool, and it does not address hanging skin caused by substantial weight loss.
Tummy tuck surgery specifically targets and removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. This procedure treats patients affected by weak abdominal muscles, pregnancy, and/or weight fluctuation. During the procedure, the abdominal muscles are tightened and excess skin is removed to achieve a flatter, narrower midsection. Unlike liposuction, tummy tucks can treat other concerns in addition to unwanted fat in the abdominal area. Both of these procedures can be combined to improve overall body contour. Mommy makeover surgery is a common combination of procedures typically including both liposuction and tummy tuck to help mothers restore their pre-pregnancy bodies.
Not ready for surgery
For patients who aren’t quite ready for surgery, we offer CoolSculpting® non-surgical fat reduction to treat areas such as the abdomen, flanks, arms, inner thighs, and back area. CoolSculpting® can essentially treat any area that can be pinched without the need for anesthesia, compression garments, or any downtime. By applying cold temperatures to treatment areas through a process known as Cryolipolysis, the body gradually and naturally disposes of targeted fat cells. With various body procedure options, it is important to discuss your needs and goals with your plastic surgeon. If you’re interested in a cosmetic body procedure or any other plastic surgery procedure, please contact us today to schedule a consultation. Also, connect with us on Facebook and Instagram for more plastic surgery updates and news.
