Liposuction and tummy tuck are similar procedures and they may have identical results. For those who are not very accustomed with the technicalities and subtle differences between the two, liposuction and tummy tuck appear to be similar procedures with the same results but difference names. There is substantial difference between liposuction and tummy tuck. The latter is also known as abdominoplasty.
Difference Between Liposuction and Tummy Tuck
The primary difference between liposuction and tummy tuck pertains to the areas of the body where the procedure can be carried out. Liposuction can be done on cheeks, neck, breasts, waist, abdomen, sides and flanks, back, hips, thighs and legs. Tummy tuck, as the name implies, pertains to the belly or abdominal region. Usually, it is the lower and middle abdominal region that is the target area for tummy tuck or abdominoplasty.
Liposuction is usually recommended for those who have been unable to lose weight despite being on a stringent diet and having tried to shed weight through exercise. Tummy tuck is ideal for those who have already tried to lose weight in the same ways but it is not necessary. Abdominoplasty is a popular procedure for young mothers who choose to shed the post natal fat and saggy skin after childbirth using the procedure. This is helpful for those who don’t have the luxury of time to shed the weight and regain the natural elasticity of the skin in the abdominal area.
The most noticeable difference between liposuction and tummy tuck is in the skin. Liposuction will get rid of excess fat but in some cases not all of the fat that is in an area. Liposuction will do nothing to the skin. It will also leave the muscles untouched. In the process, you would only lose fat but the skin will remain saggy and it may lack the natural elasticity. The muscles will not be affected in a positive or negative way although the sudden loss of fat may make the muscles seem out of shape or not well toned. With tummy tuck, excess skin is removed and muscles are toned so the resulting appearance of the abdominal region is much better.
In many cases, liposuction and tummy tuck are combined to get the best results. If only the waist needs some fat to be removed then tummy tuck may be the more preferred option. Tummy tuck doesn’t apply to other areas so liposuction is the only option.
