What Is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck and Lipo?
As plastic surgery has become more popular in recent years, so too have two of the most common procedures: a tummy tuck and lipo. However, many people are unsure of the distinct differences between these procedures, as each surgery involves different techniques and results in different outcomes. Therefore, it can help to know some details about a tummy tuck and lipo and how to tell the difference between these two surgical procedures.
A Tummy Tuck and Lipo Correct Different Issues
One of the most prominent differences between a tummy tuck and lipo is that these two procedures correct different issues. For example, the main purpose of a tummy tuck—also known as abdominoplasty surgery—is to eliminate excess skin and fat from your lower and middle abdomen and tighten the muscles of your abdominal wall. The main goal of this procedure is to reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen, which usually results from excess fat, weak abdominal muscles, heredity, loose skin, or pregnancy. Liposuction, in contrast, involves removing localized fat deposits from your body to re-contour specific areas. Unlike a tummy tuck that is most useful for eliminating excess skin from your abdomen, liposuction is best for removing fat deposits from certain areas of your body.
A Tummy Tuck and Lipo Involve Different Types of Incisions
Another significant difference between a tummy tuck and lipo is that these procedures involve different types of incisions. While a cosmetic surgeon performs both procedures under generalized anesthesia, a full abdominoplasty usually leaves a scar of about 15 cm, whereas liposuction can leave small scars on various parts of your body where the surgeon removes fat deposits. If you want to remove fat from your body and improve the shape of your abdomen, you should consider undergoing both procedures.
To understand the differences between a tummy tuck and lipo, it is important to keep in mind the issues each of these procedures corrects, as well as the types of incisions they involve. When determining which type of procedure is best for you, your best option is to consult with a plastic surgeon, as he or she can help you identify your desired results and help you develop a plan to achieve these.