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Tummy tuck and liposuction are both considered body contouring procedures that target the upper and lower abdomen to create a flatter, smoother waistline; however, they address different issues.

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, focuses on issues caused by loose skin and weakened or damaged abdominal muscles that won’t or cannot, respond to diet and exercise. A tummy tuck will not address the issue of stubborn, subcutaneous fat, such as love handles or the dreaded “fupa” that hangs out just above the pelvic area.

Liposuction focuses on permanently reducing subcutaneous fat in the abdomen that will not respond to your efforts, no matter how many crunches or sit you fit into your fitness regimen. Liposuction results in a noticeable decrease in fat in a specific location. However, liposuction cannot address issues of excess skin or damaged abdominal muscles.

When used together, liposuction and tummy tuck can provide the perfect balance to a healthy lifestyle and help you reach your ideal aesthetic goals.

How To Determine If You Need Liposuction or A Tummy Tuck?

Liposuction is the best treatment to create a smooth, toned abdomen for patients with excess fat or stubborn pockets of fat but still have healthy skin elasticity and a structured abdominal wall. They are often within 20 pounds of their ideal body weight and have a massive weight loss or pregnancy history. Women after pregnancy can be good candidates for liposuction. However, it’s more common that their skin and abdominal muscles are permanently stretched which is best improved with a tummy tuck to avoid excess skin.

If you have both excess skin, damaged abdominal muscles from pregnancy, and stubborn fat pockets that you would like to remove, the best solution is to consider combining liposuction with your tummy tuck procedure and experience more comprehensive improvements in your abdominal contour.

What Does a Tummy Tuck Involve?

A tummy tuck involves Dr. Livingston making an incision at the bikini line that spans from one hip to the other. This incision allows Dr. Livingston to remove the skin and fat from the abdominal wall. While the abdominal wall is exposed, Dr. Livingston will place stitches used to tighten the abdominal wall. These stitches resemble a girdle and are often required to correct the damage that occurs during childbearing or morbid obesity and help create a stronger, more contoured stomach.

What Does Liposuction Involve?

When removing stubborn subcutaneous fat from the abdomen, Dr. Livingston uses the traditional tumescent liposuction method.

During traditional liposuction, Dr. Livingston will administer intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Then, he’ll create a small, subtle, hidden incision on the abdomen. Through these small incisions, he’ll inject a sterile solution of saline that’s been infused with anesthetic and vasoconstriction medication to help minimize bleeding and reduce swelling and bruising during your recovery. Next, Dr. Livingston will insert a small hollow tube called a cannula through the access incisions and begin to gently remove the loosened fatty tissue through suction, leaving the body with a new slimmer outline and shape.

Tummy Tuck in South Central Houston

When picking a surgeon for your tummy tuck procedure, it is vital that your surgeon has the right credentials, qualifications, and years of experience. They should be board certified and in good standing with their community. At Livingston Plastic Surgery, Dr. Christopher K. Livingston attracts his patients with his years of experience and impressive credentials. He is known for his excellent operative skill with masterful techniques and his calm, non-pressuring demeanor.

If you are interested in abdominoplasty with or without liposuction in Houston with Dr. Livingston, contact Living Plastic Surgery here to book a consultation today.