Tummy Tuck or Liposuction: Which Is the Better Choice for You?
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When it comes to achieving a flatter and more toned midsection, many people turn to tummy tuck surgery or liposuction. Both improve the appearance of the abdominal area, but they are not interchangeable. Patients should consider their goals when deciding between these two procedures in Atlanta, GA. Those with excess skin and muscle separation often benefit more from a tummy tuck, while liposuction is better suited for people with stubborn fat pockets.
Below, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brandon-Dzung Mang discusses these key differences in detail. Book a virtual consultation with Rejuve Aesthetic Surgery and learn about your options for body contouring.
When to get a tummy tuck
There are several different types of tummy tuck procedures, but they all involve removing sagging skin and fat from around the abdomen. It's ideal for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight or experienced pregnancy, which can stretch the skin and cause muscle separation.
During a tummy tuck, Dr. Mang will create an incision along the bikini line and make any necessary repairs to the underlying muscles before addressing the extra tissue. The result is a flatter, tighter midsection with better muscle tone.
It does take several weeks to heal from tummy tuck, and you will need to avoid strenuous exercise during this time. However, our patients agree that the long-lasting results make it worth the recovery period.
When to get liposuction
Unlike a tummy tuck, liposuction does not address excess skin or muscle separation. Instead, it targets specific areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. Dr. Mang will use a thin, hollow cannula to suction out fat cells from places like the abdomen, hips, and love handles.
If you have healthy skin elasticity but struggle with small fat pockets, you may benefit greatly from liposuction. This procedure sculpts and contours the body to achieve a more toned look. However, it's not for those with loose or excess skin, as it may result in further sagging.
Recovery from liposuction is typically shorter than a tummy tuck, with most patients returning to work within a week. It may take time for the full results to be visible as the body heals and adjusts to its new shape.
Combining body contouring procedures
During a consultation in Atlanta, GA, Dr. Mang may recommend combining both tummy tuck surgery and liposuction for more dramatic and noticeable outcomes. Ideal candidates for this combination procedure:
- Are in good overall health and are at a stable weight
- Are nonsmokers or willing to quit smoking
- Have realistic expectations about their outcomes
Additional considerations for both procedures
One common misconception about tummy tuck surgery and liposuction is that they are primarily used for weight loss. While some do lose a small amount of weight after undergoing treatment, these procedures are ideal for people who are already at or near their ideal weight and want to address specific concerns with their body shape, such as fat pockets.
Book a body contouring consultation
When choosing between a tummy tuck and liposuction, it's always beneficial to work with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Brandon-Dzung Mang. Book a virtual consultation at Rejuve Aesthetic Surgery and learn about your options for achieving a flatter, toned midsection in Atlanta, GA. Remember, no matter which option you choose, our team is with you every step of the way.