All About Tummy Tucks and Liposuction Surgery

Whether you’re a mom who wants to get rid of that post-pregnancy pooch or are simply unhappy with your stomach, chances are you’ve considered getting a tummy tuck. Also known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes extra fat and skin from the stomach region and tightens the abdominal muscles.

Liposuction surgery is a cosmetic procedure that can be used to remove excess fat from the body. It is most commonly performed on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and arms.

In this blog post, we’ll give you everything you need to know about tummy tuck and liposuction surgery to make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you. Some people choose one surgery over the other, while others combine the two surgeries for maximum results.

What is Tummy Tuck Surgery?

As we mentioned, a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes extra skin and fat from the midsection and tightens the abdominal muscles. This surgery is usually done on people who have lost a significant amount of weight or have had multiple pregnancies, as these can lead to loose, saggy skin around the stomach area. 

During surgery, your doctor will make an incision in your lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. Through this incision, they will remove any excess skin and fat. If your abdominal muscles are separated and you have a condition called diastasis recti, your surgeon may also stitch them back together during the procedure. Once all the excess skin and fat have been removed, and your abdominal muscles have been repaired (if necessary), your surgeon will close up the incisions.

Am I a Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?

The best candidates for tummy tuck surgery are generally healthy adults with realistic expectations for their results. Most people who undergo tummy tuck surgery are also at or near their ideal body weight because if you lose a significant amount of weight after getting a tummy tuck, you may be left with loose skin again. 

If you want to get a tummy tuck but are not at your ideal body weight, you’ll need to lose weight first through diet and exercise before undergoing surgery. This will help you ensure you get the best possible results from your procedure. 

Another important factor to consider is whether or not you plan to have any more children. If you want to get pregnant again in the future, it’s generally advisable to wait until after you’ve had your children to get a tummy tuck because pregnancy can once again stretch out your abdominal muscles and skin. 

What Are the Risks Associated With Tummy Tuck Surgery?

As with any type of surgery, there are certain risks associated with getting a tummy tuck. However, these risks are somewhat rare and can usually be avoided by choosing a qualified surgeon and following their post-operative instructions carefully. 

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help sculpt the body by removing unwanted fat deposits. The surgery is typically performed on patients who are at or near their ideal body weight but have stubborn pockets of fat that resist diet and exercise. 

Where Can I Get Liposuction?

Liposuction can be performed on various areas of the body, including the abdomen, thighs, arms, neck, and back. In most cases, the surgery is performed using a local anesthetic combined with a sedative to keep the patient comfortable. General anesthesia may be used in some cases. 

What to Expect During Liposuction Surgery 

Liposuction surgery usually takes 1-2 hours to complete, although this will depend on the number of areas being treated and the amount of fat being removed. The surgeon will make small incisions in the skin and insert a thin tube called a cannula beneath the skin. The cannula will then be used to break up the fat deposits and suction them out of the body. 

What Can I Expect After Liposuction Surgery?

After surgery, patients will usually need to wear compression garments for 2-4 weeks to help minimize swelling and help the skin conform to its new contours. Most patients can return home on the same day as their surgery. However, those who have undergone more extensive procedures may need to stay overnight in the hospital for observation. 

If you’re considering getting a tummy tuck or liposuction but aren’t sure if it’s right for you, we hope this blog post has helped clear things up for you. Remember that the best candidates for this type of surgery are generally healthy adults with realistic expectations for their results and at or near their ideal body weight. If this sounds like you and you’d like to take the next step, contact Wellspring Plastic Surgery in Austin, Texas, today for a consultation.