Liposuction or tummy tuck: which one is right for you?

The decision between whether to have liposuction surgery or a tummy tuck can be a confusing and difficult one for many patients. The best way to help you make a clear, uncomplicated decision is to become informed about each procedure.At Perth Cosmetic Surgery, we believe in giving our patients all the facts about each procedure and guiding them with our in-depth, professional knowledge in making the best decision for them.

What you need to know about cosmetic body procedures

What is a tummy tuck?

Abdominoplasty or a tummy tuck is a common cosmetic procedure to remove excess sagging skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. The underlying abdominal muscle walls can be tightened at the same time to improve the appearance of a firmer, flatter, and shapelier abdomen. Many people opt for a tummy tuck when they experience the following conditions:• Sagging skin, fat, and muscles that will not improve through exercise and dieting • Stretched abdomen due to pregnancy, weight gain, or aging. • Large apron of fat (or pannus) below the umbilicus that may cause skin irritations, infections, difficulty in walking, and maintenance of hygiene. • Large abdomen that protrudes and is out of proportion with the rest of the body. • Weakened and separated abdominal muscles

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery that breaks up and "sucks" fat from various parts of the body, most commonly the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, neck, chin, arms, calves, and back. With weight gain, fat cells increase in size rather than multiply. If you gain weight after surgery, it will not return to the suctioned area because of the fat cell removal. Fat cells in other areas, however, can still increase in size.

How to choose which procedure is right for you?

Both procedures are commonly performed by plastic surgeons and are effective and safe. Most professional plastic surgeons, like Dr Pham at the Perth Cosmetic Surgery, will suggest a liposuction treatment for patients who still have excellent muscle tone and no redundant skin. It is less invasive and has a quicker recovery time.A tummy tuck however, is always recommended for people that have lost all muscle tone in their abdomen and/or their skin (in the affected area) is excessive and loose, with no elasticity left at all.We suggest always consulting a trusted medical professional, like world-renowned Dr Pham at the Perth Cosmetic Surgery to discuss your case, care, and possible treatment options before making your final decision.Contact Perth Cosmetic Surgery today to find out more about our state-of-the-art centre and treatments.