Should I Get Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?

Liposuction and tummy tuck are both body contouring procedures, but they are designed to address different concerns. This leads many people to wonder, “is a tummy tuck or liposuction better for me?” And the answer depends entirely on your needs and goals.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that is designed to eliminate stubborn deposits of fat from various treatment areas. Able to be used on nearly any part of the body, liposuction eliminates stubborn fat deposits, allowing the treatment area to become more toned and defined.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that is designed to eliminate loose and sagging skin from the midsection. Tummy tuck can also be used to reattach abdominal muscles, which can help slim the waist while also preventing herniation, low back pain, and other issues related to diastasis recti.

Liposuction is commonly used during tummy tuck surgery to eliminate fat deposits that have failed to respond to diet and exercise, but not every instance of abdominal fat will require tummy tuck in addition to fat removal.

Which Procedure is Right for Me?

If you have been diagnosed with diastasis recti or have loose and sagging skin obscuring your midsection, a tummy tuck may prove ideal. If your midsection is fine, but you have stubborn fat deposits on your back or thighs, for example, liposuction will be a better option. If you have both stubborn fat deposits and loose, bulky skin around the midsection, both may be needed.

If you feel like you could use assistance in reaching your goals, it’s a good idea to talk with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can provide an honest assessment of your problem areas and help you determine the best path forward. Dr. Levi Young welcomes an opportunity to meet with you for a private and confidential consultation where he can listen to your concerns, evaluate your goals, and guide you towards the most effective treatment.

Please call Advanced Cosmetic Surgery at 913-341-2188 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Young. We welcome patients living in Kansas City and all surrounding areas at our Leawood office.