Men and women alike struggle with battling the bulges along the waistline. An unflattering “gut” can become troublesome when it is unresponsive to diet and exercise. Often, the only solution to their problem is via surgery. Liposuction and tummy tuck surgery may come to mind. However, many people do not know which one they need to help achieve a slimmer, more defined abdomen. When deciding on the right procedure for you, it will all depend on the severity of fat and skin you have along the waistline.
Excess Fat With Sagging Skin
Many post-pregnancy and weight-loss patients lose a significant amount of fat in a short time and find that their skin does not retract back naturally. The skin on the abdomen becomes stretched and loose, causing it to hang in an unattractive way. Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, is performed to restore a flatter, more toned midsection. Abdominoplasty can improve the stomach area by correcting a bulging belly, excess fat and skin, and stretched abdominal muscles. A horizontal incision is made across the abdomen within or above the pubic area. An incision may also need to be made around the navel if there is loose skin in the upper abdomen. Abdominal muscles are sutured together, and excess fat deposits and tissue are removed. Excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is redraped over the newly sculpted contours.
Excess Fat With No Sagging Skin
Some people who only have a problem with additional fat in the abdomen but do not have any sagging skin may be able to achieve their goals with liposuction alone. Liposuction involves inserting a cannula beneath the skin that is used to break up the fat cells and suction them out with a vacuum device. The flanks, hips, and thighs may also be addressed for further body contouring. Patients who have firm, elastic skin and are in good health will benefit most from liposuction surgery. Scarring is minimal and hidden in discreet areas. Once swelling has subsided and incisions are fully healed, patients will be happy with their slimmer, beautifully shaped abdomen.
Combining Tummy Tuck Surgery and Liposuction
For some patients, combined liposuction and tummy tuck offers the best of both procedures. Many people who have sagging skin in the abdomen, weak abdominal muscles, and excess fatty tissue achieve amazing results by undergoing tummy tuck surgery with liposuction. Dr. Alexander can contour the abdominal area while enhancing the surrounding areas such as the love handles, hips, and thighs.
The best way to find out the right procedure for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alexander today! He is an experienced plastic surgeon who can help you achieve your body contouring goals. Contact us by calling (954) 589-0722 or by filling out our online contact form.