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Do I Need Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?

Posted March 28, 2024 in Liposuction, Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Choosing which body contouring procedure is right for you is a highly personal decision. Many people struggle with unwanted fat on the stomach and often turn to liposuction or a tummy tuck as a solution. Here, we discuss the differences between liposuction and tummy tuck, the benefits of each, and who is a candidate for a combination of the procedures. 

Female on grey background with beautiful skin

3 Min Read:

Choosing a Body Contouring Procedure 

When you’ve decided to empower yourself with a choice of a cosmetic surgery procedure, there are still other choices to make. Embarking on a journey into the realm of plastic surgery, you’ll encounter two procedures that can work wonders: liposuction and abdominoplasty. Though distinct in their techniques and outcomes, these transformative methods often go hand in hand. Due to their different benefits and target areas, some patients choose one procedure over the other or combine both for their most optimal results. 

What Are the Differences Between Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck? 

Liposuction and tummy tuck surgery both re-contour the body to achieve a slimmer, more sculpted figure. A tummy tuck provides precise and extensive correction to the abdomen, while liposuction can remove unwanted fat from various body areas. 

Tummy Tuck 

Many people desire a flat and toned stomach; however, these results are often difficult to achieve with diet and exercise alone. Even if they lose stomach fat, many frequently have excess sagging skin. This is usually the case for many patients who have undergone significant weight loss, women who have given birth, or people dealing with skin laxity due to aging. 

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, tightens the abdominal muscles and removes excess droopy skin while pulling the remaining skin taut for a smooth stomach. Dr. Rey offers mini, standard, and extended tummy tuck surgery to fit the needs and goals of his patients. 

Liposuction 

Stubborn pockets of fat often develop in the stomach, but they can also occur nearly anywhere in the body. Liposuction strategically removes unwanted fat to leave you with newly defined body contours. Potential body areas that can be treated with liposuction include the chin, neck, arms, breasts, back, stomach, flanks, thighs, knees, and ankles. 

What Are the Benefits of Liposuction vs. Tummy Tuck? 

A tummy tuck can be a great option for people who want to correct separated or weakened abdominal muscles. Patients with loose stomach skin will also benefit from a tummy tuck. However, it’s important to note that a tummy tuck alone cannot remove substantial stomach fat. Adding liposuction to your procedure is best if you want to remove unwanted fat with your tummy tuck. 

Due to its versatility, liposuction may be a preferred option for people with unwanted body fat in multiple body areas. Minor incisions are needed for this procedure, so patients who want to remove stomach fat and have good skin elasticity may opt for liposuction on the stomach rather than a tummy tuck. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Liposuction with Tummy Tuck? 

Patients looking to tighten abdominal muscles, remove excess skin, and eliminate unwanted fat in the abdominal region may be good candidates for combining liposuction with tummy tuck surgery. 

Other factors that may make this combination of procedures right for you include: 

  • Being in good physical health
  • At a stable weight
  • Being a nonsmoker or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
  • Having realistic goals for surgery

Want to Know More About Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA? 

Dr. Rey is dedicated to providing customized, high-quality care to all his patients. To start your body contouring journey, learn more about liposuction and tummy tuck surgery by calling (310) 205-3107 or filling out our online contact form.