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Should I Get Liposuction Or Tummy Tuck?

That extra abdominal weight is a stubborn problem for a lot of women. It might be from losing weight after bariatric surgery, having a child, or you just can’t seem to shed those extra pounds. If you’ve decided to do something about it, you might ask: should I get liposuction or a tummy tuck?

Comparing The Options: Tummy Tuck

A flat toned tummy is the goal of women of all ages, but is it achievable? An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, has the advantage of not only removing fat, but also removing excess skin and tightening muscles at the same time. So even if you have exercised and dieted your little heart out, but you still have that belly fat, this could be your answer.

A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the lower and middle abdominal area. An incision is made at the bikini line from hip to hip, and you will have a scar. Expect full recovery to take at least four months or longer. The scar will dramatically fade after about a year, so choose clothing and swimwear carefully. Picture tight jeans and summer dresses.Close up female waist in white bikini. Hands measuring waist with metric band.

Comparing The Options: Liposuction

Liposuction is not a procedure to lose weight, and it is not for women who are overweight or obese. Its goal is to remove pockets of fat in the abdomen, arms, thighs, or hips. It removes fat but does not tighten muscle or skin. It is less invasive than a tummy tuck and has a shorter recovery time.

Expect swelling and bruising to be gone in just a few weeks with minimal scarring. Most women can return to work and normal activities within a few days.

Small incisions are made in the area to be treated, and the fat is suctioned out between the skin and the abdominal wall. This is done proportionately to create a pleasing shape.

Combining The Two Options

Many women find that having both procedures performed at the same time is optimal for their desired results.

Contact Dr. Wendy Gottlieb at (703) 668-9499 to discover whether a tummy tuck, liposuction, or both options are best for you. Let us help you decide and make expert recommendations.

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