For starters, what is a tummy tuck? A tummy tuck is often called abdominoplasty, and it is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen so that it appears firmer and smoother.
A toned and flat midsection is something that so many men and women work hard for through diet and exercise, yet in some cases, it is still difficult to ultimately achieve the results that you are looking for.
If you have a healthy body weight and proportion yet still struggle with loose and sagging skin on your stomach, this could be caused by:
- Pregnancy
- Age
- Extreme weight fluctuations
- Genetics
- Previous surgeries
A tummy tuck is a good option if you are at a healthy and stable weight, have realistic expectations, and are a non-smoker. While the positive results of a tummy tuck are permanent, the outcome can be greatly affected by large fluctuations in weight after the procedure. As an example, if a woman plans to get pregnant in the future, or if a candidate plans to lose more weight, then it is best that they postpone their tummy tuck for the time being.
A tummy tuck cant be used as a substitute for weight loss or exercise, and it also wont provide a remedy for stretch marks. However, a tummy tuck can often be an ideal aesthetic solution if you have been struggling to tone loose and sagging skin around your midsection yet have been unable to see results.
Liposuction versus Tummy Tuck
Compared to a tummy tuck, liposuction is somewhat different. Liposuction is used to reshape and slim specific areas of the body by removing excess fatty deposits. Even if you are fit and in good health, you still may have a difficult time toning and firming certain problem areas.
Liposuction can be used for the specific purpose of remedying stubborn problem areas throughout the body in the neck, arms, thighs, waist, hips, back, inner knee, cheeks, chest, calves, ankles, and even the chin. In many cases, liposuction is performed in combination with a tummy tuck to tighten sagging skin and remove fatty deposits at the same time.
Liposuction is not a recommended treatment for obesity or a substitute for healthy weight loss. An ideal liposuction candidate should focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise beforehand to maintain a healthy weight. From there, liposuction can then be used to treat problem areas that have not responded to diet and exercise.
So which procedure is right for you? As stated above, in many cases, you may be eligible for both a tummy tuck and liposuction at the same time. But if your problem areas are in other parts of your body, like your thighs, hips, or arms, then liposuction may be the best solution to slim and tone in order to improve the overall proportion of your body.
Visit our tummy tuck or liposuction pages to view 3D animations, read FAQs, see before and after photos and more.
To schedule a tummy tuck or liposuction consultation at our practice in Northern Virginia, call us at (703) 574-2588. Or,click here to set up a consultation.
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