To Tuck or to Suck...
Whether you’re looking to bust stubborn fat or tighten up your midsection after weight loss or pregnancy, tummy tucks and liposuction treatments are both viable options. With plastic surgery innovating so quickly, it can be difficult to pinpoint the best operation for you. Which of these procedures you choose should depend on personal factors and preferences, and there are key differences between the surgeries. We’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the right choice!
Should I Have Liposuction?
Liposuction is a fit option for removing small, pesky fat deposits that won’t budge regardless of exercise routine or diet plan. It’s a fantastic way to contour certain areas of the body to help achieve the shape we all lust after. Many of us are genetically inclined to store fat in areas where we’d rather not hold it. We call these our “problem areas,” and liposuction can be a remarkable solution to finally melt away those persistent fatty areas that trigger insecurities.
A lipoplasty is less invasive in comparison to a tummy tuck. It uses a suction technique that leaves behind only a small incision scar. You’ll be numbed or sedated during surgery, so pain and soreness won’t take affect until after the procedure; Aftercare will be comprised mostly of rest, painkillers and compression garments. It is expected that you take it easy for at least 5 to 7 days post-surgery. It’s imperative to schedule ample time off of work-related duties to recover properly, and also to avoid heavy exercise for 4 to 6 weeks post operation.
If cost effectiveness is a key factor in your decision, liposuction is much easier on your wallet. Our prices range from $4,000-$7,000 per area of the body.
As far as long term effects go, the fat tissue removed during liposuction will not return unless there is weight gain in the future. However, your new fat may choose a new home on your body. It’ll be more likely that you’ll gain weight in untreated areas of the body.
… Or a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also called an abdominoplasty, has significant differences. Although both surgeries can improve the appearance of the abdominal area, patient experiences and results differ. Tummy tucks do a far better job at removing excess skin rather than just fat tissue. It will slim and tauten your midsection by removing the excess fat and skin, while also tightening the abdominal muscle underneath. It’s a more surgically invasive procedure and can take up to three hours.
An abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia and leaves behind a larger scar compared to the small incision scar associated with liposuction (although both scars are easily camouflaged). You’ll need roughly two weeks off of work to avoid unwanted stress on the body, and approximately one to two months for a full recovery.
A compression garment will be worn for 6 to 8 weeks and drainage tubes will be inserted temporarily for the first week to prevent fluid buildup. Strenuous exercise should be avoided during this time, but it is important to keep up regular movement such as walking around your home and carrying out simple, day-to-day activities. This applies to both liposuction treatments and tummy tucks.
Tummy tucks have a price range that lies between $9,000-$15,000. This is pricier compared to liposuction, which as mentioned before has a range closer to $4,000-$7,000 per body area.
The results from a tummy tuck are permanent unless there is a pregnancy or weight gain that re-stretches out the treated area. Since loose skin is extremely resistant, if not totally unaffected by lifestyle changes, a tummy tuck can be a wonderful way to unveil the incredible figure that’s been hiding underneath your loose skin.
… Or Both?
Both liposuction and tummy tucks are effective treatments and are often used in conjunction with one another for maximal results. At our office, there is a 99% satisfaction rate when the two procedures are used together. This is compared to a 94% satisfaction rate for tummy tucks alone and a 91% rate for liposuction alone. We make sure that our customers leave feeling happy, healthy and confident.
Stubborn body fat and loose skin are two common concerns for both women and men. We can help you choose between these two terrific options to bestow the inspiration and confidence boost to improve your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with us @ www.plasticsurgerybythesea.com.
See our Testimonials below!
“I feel like a million bucks!” – Jennifer A.
“I never thought I could feel this good about my body…” – Kelly R.
“The recovery wasn’t as bad as I though and Dr. Smith took amazing care of me!” – Charlotte T.
“They made me feel comfortable and at ease from beginning to end. I love the results!” – Norma J.