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Main difference between the two is that tummy tuck removes excess skin and liposuction will likely make excess skin more saggy. Generally, if you have a moderate or more amount of skin excess a tummy tuck will give you the best result.
If you have almost no skin excess and just some thick subcutaneous fat, then liposuction would be best for you as the skin is more likely to retract. (Luis H. Macias, MD, FACS, Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon)
Both of these techniques fall under the category of body contouring procedures. After having children, you would have a certain amount of loose skin around abdomen.
As a result, probably the best way to “contour” your shape would encompass a tummy tuck operation.
This not only flattens your abdomen, but also removes excess skin and fat! The result is a very smooth and tight abdomen. The downside is that there is downtime up to about two weeks after the surgery.
On the other hand, liposuction removes excess fat in problematic areas. This can be the abdomen, the inner and outer thighs, love handles, etc. The downtime is minimized. The way for you to know which is the better technique for you is to visit a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
He or she will be able to present the pros and cons regarding both procedures and which one would work best for you. (Joel B. Beck, MD, FACS, Bay Area Plastic Surgeon)
The Difference Between Liposuction and Tummy Tuck
This procedure depends on you and the amount of loose skin you have. Traditional liposuction is designed for larger pockets of fat in individuals with good skin integrity – minimal to no loose skin. A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is designed for someone who has minimal fat in the abdomen with loose skin either related to weight loss or having children.
The best way to determine which procedure you are a candidate for is to schedule a consultation with your board certified plastic surgeon. (David L. Robbins, MD, FACS, West Des Moines Plastic Surgeon)
TUMMY TUCK OR LIPOSUCTION?
Liposuction of the abdominal wall can be used when the skin and underlying fat are relatively firm and there is very little need for tightening. On the other hand, if the tissues are every loose, liposuction alone would create sort of an empty leather pouch which would be hanging and unsightly.
So it is never one or the other but there is a definite best method for each patient. Some will be better off with a tummy tuck, some will get great results with liposuction. It is not your choice, but the requirements of the particular patient’s skin.
The surgeon can usually make that decision in about 10 seconds. (Ahmet R. Karaca, MD, Birmingham Plastic Surgeon)
Skin and Muscle Exam Determines Best Abdominal Surgery Outcome
There are two considerations when choosing between liposuction and a tummy tuck.
- is there separation (bulging or pooching) of the muscle?
- is there excess and stretched skin?
If either of these two findings is discovered on examination, a tummy tuck will provide a better result.
*However* I rarely will tell a patient that they “need” a certain procedure. Plastic surgery is about balancing expectations and goals for recovery. I have certainly performed liposuction in patients who would have achieved a greater benefit from a tummy tuck; but, the patient and I decided on the less invasive procedure due to recovery time and scarring.
The doctor-patient relationship is critical in plastic surgery to align expectations. (Adam J. Oppenheimer, MD, Orlando Plastic Surgeon)