What Is the Difference Between Liposuction and Tummy Tuck?
The main difference between liposuction and tummy tuck is that liposuction is intended to reduce subcutaneous (i.e., under the skin) fat while tummy tuck is intended to remove excess abdominal skin and repair extremely weakened or separated abdominal muscles.
Additionally, while Dr. Joshua Greenwald can perform liposuction on various parts of the body (abdomen, hips, thighs, upper arms and neck) abdominoplasty has a more limited scope in that it only addresses the abdominal region. It does, however, incorporate several different techniques. Let’s go over the specifics of each procedure.
Liposuction
Liposuction is intended for individuals who are in good health and have good skin elasticity. Because suitable liposuction candidates have good skin elasticity, their skin is expected to contract naturally following the liposuction procedure. Thus, the removal of any excess skin in unnecessary, unlike with tummy tuck.
In addition, suitable liposuction candidates are of average or slightly above average weight. Liposuction is not intended for major weight loss. Instead, the goal of abdominal liposuction is to contour the body’s midsection by removing a relatively small amount of fat from the area underneath the skin and above the abdominal muscles. The fat is removed through a cannula (a small hollow tube), which is inserted into the body through tiny incisions near the targeted site(s).
It is important to note that liposuction can be done under local anesthesia. Because liposuction is less invasive than tummy tuck, the recovery period is quicker and easier. Moreover, liposuction scars are minimal while tummy tuck scars are usually more conspicuous.
Tummy Tuck
In contrast to liposuction, tummy tuck surgery is intended for individuals who need further correction than liposuction can provide; for example, correction of loose skin and weakened / separated abdominal muscles. Major weight loss or pregnancy can cause excess skin to droop or sag unattractively from the lower abdomen, and liposuction will not get rid of it.
After administering general anesthesia, Dr. Greenwald creates a horizontal incision directly above the pubic region and below the underwear or bikini line to start the tummy tuck procedure. If liposuction has not been performed in a previous visit, Dr. Greenwald then uses liposuction techniques on the abdominal area to eliminate excess fat. He also repairs the abdominal muscles if they have separated. Lastly, Dr. Greenwald removes excess skin from the lower abdomen, repositions the navel as necessary and uses sutures to mend the area.
Tummy tuck involves a longer recovery period than liposuction does. Furthermore, scarring with tummy tuck is more pronounced than with liposuction. However, some patients feel the results of tummy tuck are more suited to their overall cosmetic goals. To discuss your personal goals with Dr. Greenwald and come up with a treatment plan, please schedule a consultation with him by calling (914) 421-0113.
In addition to performing tummy tuck in New York, Dr. Greenwald also offers lower body lift and mommy makeover.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.
