It is difficult to compare liposuction with a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a large surgical procedure that focuses on removing skin from the lower part of the abdomen, whereas liposuction focus on removal of fat that can be anywhere on the abdomen, waist or flanks. Liposuction is less invasive procedure more versatile procedure with fewer associated risks. A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure is a larger surgery that requires the patient to undergo general anesthesia. They really do different things. The Tummy tuck procedure is often used to remove large amount of skin after a very large weight loss. Liposuction is the usually the preferred procedure for body sculpting excess fat.
Get rid of Belly fat with a Tummy Tuck or Liposuction?
Side Effects
When comparing a liposuction and a tummy tuck, it is important to understand that a tummy tuck will have greater risks for side effects than will liposuction. The reason is because liposuction is a relatively simpler and less invasive procedure.
Liposuction Procedure
The liposuction procedure is a minimal invasive procedure with only mild sedation, local anesthetic, and an awake patient. The liposuction procedure requires the application of a thin tube called a cannula that is inserted into the fat deposit, and then sucked out. This leaves the patient with minimal scarring, fast recovery, and just a small amount of swelling and bruising. Most patients are back to their regular activities in a few days
Tummy Tuck Procedure
The tummy tuck requires a far more invasive approach. Here, the patience receives a large incision above the pubic region from hip bone to hip bone exposing the patient’s abdominal wall so the abdominal muscles can be sutured together in a tighter arrangement. After the abdominal muscles have been sutured together, the skin is then pulled down until it is tight, and any excess skin on the lower part of the abdomen is trimmed away. In cases where there is a large amount of excess skin on the lower abdomen, a tummy tuck can be the preferred treatment. This procedure can cause a significant scarring, heavy swelling, and an unusual appearance of the belly button region. The recovery is longer and usually it takes at least 6- 8 weeks before patients are ready to resume normal activities.
Tummy Tuck Cost
The cost of tummy tuck is significantly higher than compared to the liposuction costs, because of the more invasive nature of the procedure, general anesthetics required, and the greater risks involved.
Other Liposuction Benefits:
An aspect of liposuction that patients may not necessarily be aware of when considering liposuction is that it can be used for more things than just looking good. This is far from the truth, and merely scrapes the surface of the benefits of liposuction. Yes, removing the volume of fat does give you the cosmetic benefit you desire, but also, just as important, not only do you look better, but you feel better about yourself. Your confidence is important, and your ability to accomplish what you want can dramatically increase when you feel better about yourself. Having confidence adds to a person’s momentum of success. Whether it is wearing your desired clothing, approaching people, or presenting yourself in any forum; all of which are confidence-driven.
Health Benefit
Health is another possible benefit of liposuction. A number of studies have shown that the removal of substantial amounts of fat can reduce your cholesterol, which will reduce your risk factors for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Additionally, patients who have substantial amounts of fats on their abdomen area can cause pressure on their lungs, causing difficulty in breathing due to the abundance of fat. These are major concerns in our society, and to make the decision to reduce such risk factors will provide a significant benefit to the enjoyment and longevity, happiness, and overall personal well-being.
Mobility
Another benefit our patients have noticed is their increase in mobility, particularly for larger patients where the fat is inhibiting their motions. Whether bending forward to tie their shoes, hygiene issues associated with overlapping skin, or back pain issues, these are just some of the many issues that a liposuction procedure can alleviate.
Clothing
An obvious benefit of liposuction is being able to wear what you want. As everyone knows when your clothes fit better, you look better, you feel better, and your confidence is higher.
In the end liposuction is more than just cosmetic, it’s about looking better, feeling better, being healthier, and giving you the kick start to the life you deserve. Call the Laser Lipo and Vein Center today if you are interested in seeing why so many choose liposuction over tummy tucks in St Louis!