Liposuction vs. Tummy Tuck: Which is Right for Me?

Unfortunately, we’re not all born with perfect bodies, which means it takes a lot of time and effort to achieve a slim physique. But what if diet and exercise aren’t enough?

People who aren’t happy with their midsection can opt for various procedures to get the body they want, including liposuction or a tummy tuck – but which is best for your needs?

Dr. Anthony N Dardano is an expert plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Boca Raton, Florida, who provides various surgical and nonsurgical treatments for your cosmetic needs.

Dr. Dardano evaluates your health and goals to help guide you in making a decision when it comes to undergoing a tummy tuck or liposuction for stubborn belly fat.

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure Dr. Dardano uses to target specific areas of fat in the body. It’s a way for people looking to reduce small pockets of fat that are resistant to vigorous exercise and a healthy diet.

During a liposuction procedure, Dr. Dardano provides sedation and local anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel discomfort. He then makes small incisions around the treatment area and inserts a small tube into the incision.

He begins to move the small tube around to loosen fat cells around. He then uses a medical vacuum device to suck out the fat cells, leaving a more contoured look after recovery.

However, it may take several sessions to achieve the look you want. Dr. Dardano evaluates each area of fat to determine how much liposuction you need to reach your goals.

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck is also a surgical procedure Dr. Dardano utilizes to remove excess fat and extra skin around the abdominal area. You may choose a tummy tuck if you can’t get the toned midsection you want.

You may choose to have a tummy tuck if you have a weak lower abdominal area or significant fat and skin around the lower abdomen.

Women who have undergone a cesarean section may have excess skin and fat that lingers even with focusing exercises on the abdominal area. 

People who have lost a significant amount of weight or have a specific body shape may also choose a tummy tuck to get the ideal abdominal physique.

Which procedure is best for me?

Liposuction and tummy tucks are both successful procedures for excess fat around the abdominal area. They have important differences and it’s essential you understand which is best for your needs.

Dr. Dardano suggests liposuction for people who have small deposits of excess fat around the abdomen, hips, buttocks, and thighs. It’s not a weight loss tool so he does not suggest it for people who are overweight or obese.

However, if you’re only looking to trim a little bit of excess fat that you can’t get rid of through crunches and exercise, liposuction is a great option for you.

A tummy tuck is a better option if you’re looking to remove excess fat and tighten up the skin around the midsection. Many women may have excess skin after pregnancy or from significant weight changes.

If you have a large amount of skin that’s keeping you from the contoured abdomen you’ve been dreaming of, or your abdominal muscles are separated after pregnancy, Dr. Dardano suggests a tummy tuck over liposuction for optimal results.

However, certain people shouldn’t have a tummy tuck, including women who are planning future pregnancies, people with a BMI over 30, and those who are actively attempting to lose excess weight.

If you’re finally ready to take the plunge and get the body you’ve always wanted, call our office in Boca Raton, Florida, today, or request a consultation on the website.