Figures released at the beginning of the year from one of the UK’s leading independent plastic surgery organisation pointed to a rise in liposuction procedures with a corresponding dip in men and women undergoing tummy tucks. Patients often don’t understand the difference between these two popular body contouring procedures and what they can achieve, but it’s vital that they are fully informed of the distinctions, benefits and which will best fulfil their expectations.
In very general terms, these body contouring procedures are ideal for those patients that wish to reshape their torso and remove stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise alone. However, they each offer unique advantages and can achieve very different end results for patients. Suitability is also key and consultant plastic surgeon Mr Matt Venus will be able to advise you on whether you are an ideal candidate for an abdominoplasty or liposuction or a combination of the two.
The benefits of liposuction
Liposuction allows a plastic surgeon to sculpt the body and can eliminate stubborn fat tissue from all over the face and body, including the chin, neck, arms, back and legs, as well as the abdomen. Generally, liposuction is a less invasive procedure than a tummy tuck, as it doesn’t involve a lengthy incision and tackles fat tissue alone, but liposuction is not an ‘easy’ option. It is usually performed under a general anaesthetic and can, in rare instances, have serious consequences.
Which is best for me: a tummy tuck or liposuction?
Although liposuction has many benefits, it is not always suitable for certain patients. If there is an excessive amount of sagging skin after massive weight fluctuations or a loss of elasticity as a result of ageing, liposuction will not be able to correct this.
As well as stretching the skin on the abdomen, pregnancy causes the muscles of the abdomen to separate and women often find these muscles don’t return to their previous position, meaning it is impossible for them to achieve a toned abdomen, however many crunches they perform.
During a tummy tuck, Mr Venus will make an incision across the abdomen, allowing him to access the muscles of the abdomen. He is them able to stitch them back into position, strengthening the abdominal wall. Skin is then stretched down, producing a smoother, tauter appearance to the stomach area and any excess skin is eliminated.
As with many cosmetic surgery procedures, a tummy tuck can be combined with liposuction to produce the best results possible.
To see if you’re best suited to a tummy tuck or liposuction, then book a consultation with Mr Matt Venus, where he can give you expect, impartial advice on the most appropriate cosmetic surgery procedure for you.
