We decide whether a tummy tuck or liposuction is most appropriate by evaluating your mid-section for the presence of excess fat, loose skin and weakened abdominal muscles. By pinpointing the factors responsible for your enlarged stomach, it is possible to tailor a surgical approach that achieves excellent, long-lasting results.Dr. Edelstein talks about the difference between liposuction and tummy tucks.
Choosing the Right Treatment
We must assess various physiological traits in order to create the best treatment plan for you. This involves a careful review of muscle strength, skin quality and skin laxity.
A patient who has strong stomach muscles, good skin tone and excess superficial (or extra-abdominal) fat may be treated through liposuction alone. If, however, cellulite, loose skin, stretch marks, and weakened stomach muscles are also present, we will recommend a tummy tuck in order to achieve a smoother, more aesthetically pleasing result. While liposuction is less invasive than a tummy tuck, it cannot always achieve the desired improvement and in some cases, can make the patient’s problem worse.
Whenever possible, the least invasive treatment is always selected first.EXAMPLES OF DETERMINING THE BEST PROCEDUREEvery patient is different, which means that we must choose whether to recommend liposuction, tummy tuck or combination of both techniques based on the patient’s unique body and expectations.
Case #1
A patient with excellent skin (no cellulite, stretch marks, laxity or wrinkles) and muscles that are in great shape, but has a degree of excess fat, liposuction alone would most likely be suitable. This approach would provide favourable results with the least amount of scarring.
Case #2
A patient who has good skin, some excess fat and bulging below the belly button may believe that they are eligible for liposuction alone. However, it would be necessary to examine the lower abdominal bulge before making a decision. Muscle tightening may be required, something that liposuction cannot do.
Case #3
When a patient has poor quality skin, some excess fat and muscle looseness that affects the entire abdomen, a combination of muscle tightening and liposuction may be necessary. This is common in women who have had children.
A tummy tuck or liposuction: which one is better for you? For a medical evaulation of your body contour, book your consultation at (416) 256-5614.
