Abdominoplasty vs Liposuction: Which is Best?

When you look at your abdominal area, do you see things that bother you? The abdomen is one of the most common areas of concern, especially among those who have experienced pregnancy or weight loss. Depending on your needs, your Longwood Plastic Surgery team will work with you to determine whether liposuction or abdominoplasty will help you achieve your goals. 

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is performed using a few small incisions to insert a thin tool called a cannula. This tool is used to break up fat cells and suction them out of the body. Some types of liposuction use different forms of energy to assist in breaking up and removing the fat. Along with your abdomen, liposuction can be used on areas like the thighs, upper arms, and under your chin.

What is Abdominoplasty or a Tummy Tuck?

If you have been pregnant or lost a lot of weight, you may have loose, stretched skin in your abdominal area. You may also have stretched or separated abdominal muscles that make it nearly impossible to achieve a flat, toned stomach. Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, addresses these issues using an incision across the lower abdomen to tighten loose skin and repair muscles. 

Abdominoplasty vs. Liposuction: Which is Best?

The best way to decide which procedure will work best for you is to consider your biggest areas of concern. Liposuction might be best if:

• Your primary concern is a stubborn pocket of abdominal fat
• You have good skin elasticity
• You lead an overall healthy lifestyle

On the other hand, a tummy tuck might be better for you if:

• Your primary concerns include loose, sagging, or stretched skin
• You want to address the appearance of stretch marks
• You have stretched abdominal muscles

In general, those with resistant abdominal fat and good skin elasticity are good candidates for liposuction. Those with stretched or sagging skin are usually better candidates for abdominoplasty, which will remove excess skin and tighten the area for a smoother, flatter appearance. 

Only a consultation will allow your LPS surgeon to assess your needs and make a decision about the best method of treatment for you. They will consider factors including your goals, lifestyle, and personal preferences to help them design the best plan. 

How Long Do Liposuction or Abdominoplasty Results Last?

Liposuction removes fat cells from your body, and they will not be replaced, so your results can last a lifetime. However, the fat cells remaining in the area can expand to store more fat if your weight changes. Leading a healthy lifestyle is the best way to maintain your flat stomach. 

Abdominoplasty removes excess skin, and your surgeon may also use liposuction during the procedure to remove fat. A healthy lifestyle is also recommended to maintain tummy tuck results since weight gain can re-stretch the skin. Pregnancy can also stretch your skin again, so we recommend waiting till you do not plan to become pregnant in the future.

Take the Next Step

Interested in learning about abdominoplasty or liposuction? Schedule your consultation with Longwood Plastic Surgery today by calling our Brookline office at (617) 380-7320. We serve the Brookline and Greater Boston area with distinction.