Many people feel they could benefit from some type of body contouring but aren’t sure which options would be best for them. While body contouring procedures can be done in different areas, one of the most sought-after results is a flatter and smoother abdomen. Abdominoplasty (aka. tummy tuck) and liposuction are both body-contouring procedures that aim to change the appearance of your midsection and make the stomach appear flatter and tighter. The right procedure for your will depend on a number of factors, but it’s important to have a basic understanding of the similarities and differences between liposuction and a tummy tuck.
Liposuction may be a good fit if you’re looking to remove fat deposits (commonly found on the hips, thighs, buttocks or stomach area). While it can help reduce bulges and improve contouring, it is not recommended as a weight loss tool. Liposuction is best suited for patients who are in good overall health, near their ideal weight, and have firm, elastic skin with pockets of fat in certain areas. It’s important o remember that liposuction can ‘empty’ the skin, but doesn’t do as much to tighten the skin.
Alternatively, a tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. This is a good option for those with loose abdominal skin or muscles that have some separation. It can be combined with other body contouring procedures, including liposuction, and can treat multiple areas at the same time.
Depending on your appearance goals, an option may be to use both procedures. Liposuction is a great tool for sculpting and shaping while a tummy tuck can tighten skin and muscle.
A consultation can help determine what the best procedure is best for you, based on your personal goals. Dr. Poulter has nearly 30 years of experience and over 25,000 satisfied patients. His knowledge and experience can help guide you along your body contouring decisions. Schedule a virtual or in-person consultation with Dr. Poulter today to discuss your exact needs and make sure you receive your desired results!