Both liposuction and tummy tuck procedures provide extraordinary results for those of us looking to get rid of that stubborn fat in our mid-sections. Do you know the difference between these two procedures?
Dr. Bernabe Vazquez, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a board certified plastic surgeon with over three decades of experience in reconstructive and plastic surgery.
Both liposuction and tummy tucks provide extraordinary results for those of us looking to get rid of that stubborn fat that seems to stick around no matter how many hours we put in at the gym – but do you know the difference between these two procedures? What really sets them apart from each other and how do the results of each truly hold up over time?
What do liposuction and tummy tuck procedures involve?
Liposuction is a procedure in which a surgeon removes excess body fat by suction, using a special piece of equipment called a cannula. Liposuction is a better option for patients with more elastic skin, who aim to get rid of stubborn fat accumulated in certain parts of their body.
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure where a surgeon excises excess fat and extra skin, restoring weakened or separated muscles, to create a more smooth/toned abdomen. Tummy tucks involve a far more invasive surgery, multiple incisions and the removal of excess stretched/unflattering skin.
Liposuction vs. tummy tuck
One benefit that liposuction procedures have over tummy tucks is liposuction can be performed on many parts of the body – legs, arms, hips and thighs, wherever a patient and their physician see fit. Common types of liposuction procedures are tumescent liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction and laser-assisted liposuction. A good candidate for liposuction is someone who has tried dieting and exercise to excise stubborn fat, has good existing muscle tone, doesn’t smoke and has specific goals in mind for their body after the procedure.
Candidates for a tummy tuck procedure are those bothered by the appearance of their abdomen due to prolonged excess weight, pregnancy or other skin-stretching situations. For patients who have stretched or sagging skin in the abdomen, a tummy tuck is often the only reasonable treatment option, as the only way to treat over stretched skin here is to remove it. Ideal candidates are maintain a healthy weight and diet, do not smoke and have realistic expectations.
Results you can see
Both tummy tucks and liposuction procedures are phenomenal at producing firm, sculpted results patients are able to see as soon as the recovery period is over. Regular recovery times for liposuction procedures can be as little as two to six weeks. Tummy tucks can take several months to fully heal and for swelling to go down. It is important to note that these procedures are not a substitute for regular diet and exercise. While they may seem permanent, results will not last if a patient fails to adhere to their physician’s advice and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
Alway use a board certified plastic surgeon
Florida law allows any surgeon to perform plastic surgery regardless of specific experience and training. ALWAYS use a board certified plastic surgeon for your consultation and plastic surgery procedures! It's your safety, health and results at risk, don't take unnecessary risks.
With more than three decades of experience as a board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Bernabe Vazquez has performed thousands of liposuction and tummy tuck procedures over the course of his career. Dr. Vazquez's results speak for themselves. You can see the results and read reviews of his work at his RealSelf.com page, Google reviews, Facebook and Instagram.
Dr. Vazquez offers surgical consultations at Brevard Medi Spa and at his surgical center in Miami. Liposuction and tummy tuck procedures are performed at Dr. Vazquez's surgical center in Miami. Financing options are available and can be discussed during the consultation process. If your ready to explore one of these surgical options, please call Brevard Medi Spa to book a consultation.
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