To Tuck or Liposuck, That is the Question
Wanting to improve the mid-section and flatten that tummy? Two cosmetic surgery methods might provide the coveted tight and toned midriff to show-off at the beach. A tummy tuck was the common method used in removing unwanted abdominal fat before the invention of liposuction. Today, liposuction is more popular among cosmetic surgery clients. Here are some facts to consider when leaning towards a tummy tuck.
Cost is typically twice as much for a tummy tuck as liposuction. Length of recovery, as in time before returning to work is also longer at a rate of 2-4 times more. A tummy tuck gives clients a flatter abdomen, along with a large scar residing along the hipbone directly above the pubic area.
One advantage of a tummy tuck is the surgeon’s ability to directly visualize the lax or loose muscles within the abdominal wall. During this procedure, the plastic surgeon has the access to tighten and stitch these muscles into their new locations giving a smoother, tighter appearance. Two incisions are made during this procedure. The first allows the surgeon to access the anterior abdominal muscles and the second frees the naval, which will be relocated and reconstructed to complete the procedure. This step involving the naval is often a disadvantage associated with the tummy tuck method. Once relocated and reconstructed, the general appearance of the naval is often abnormal.
Higher risks are linked to this method of cosmetic surgery with blood clots in the lungs being a major concern. Some still believe that achieving the flattest tummy possible is a benefit that outweighs the negative effects of an abnormal naval and large scar.