Improving your abdomen’s appearance is not an easy task. From pesky pockets of fat refusing to vacate to loose skin that won’t bounce back, it may feel your tummy is one body part that’s impossible to change. Many of us realize no diet or exercise regimen is enough to shave off the inches while leaving our skin smooth and taut. Then, body sculpting surgery becomes a more appealing option.
But which one? Liposuction or abdominoplasty are popular choices for making your belly look young and sleek. However, it can be challenging to know which procedure is better for your figure without understanding what sets them apart. Here is a breakdown of each operation to make it easier for you to choose.
Since abdominal liposuction and a tummy tuck share similar goals, their differences are not that complicated. A tummy tuck resolves excess fat and skin. A tummy tuck surgeon can also repair abdominal muscles that have separated after pregnancy or significant weight gain. Results include a smoother, firmer tummy that’s free of fat bulges and excess skin.
Liposuction’s primary goal is to remove stubborn fat through suction. Dr. Montante accomplishes this goal by inserting a thin tube called a cannula into small incisions into the abdominal region. He removes fat cells from the belly, where they will not return. Liposuction is more flexible than a tummy tuck because it’s applicable to multiple body parts other than the abdomen, including the thighs, back, and upper arms.
Recovering from surgery is as crucial as the operation itself. Comparing the two procedures, recovery time differs, as will their main stages.
When you wake from surgery, your incisions will have bandages covering them, which will need periodic changing. Most surgeons have you return to their office to monitor your healing and change the dressings themselves.
After a day, you will be up and moving with a helping hand to prevent clogging. You’ll be taking prescribed medications for discomfort and infection. You may also have a surgical drain to allow excess fluid and blood to escape.
It takes about six weeks for the initial recovery phase to pass, and several follow-up appointments with your surgeon along the way. During this time, you will need to avoid strenuous activity that could put tension on the incision areas.
Your abdominal liposuction recovery is considerably less intense. After the procedure, you may need to wear a compression garment over your midsection. Liposuction is an outpatient procedure allowing you to return to your daily activities within 48 hours. Even though you can return to your normal lifestyle reasonably quickly, you should avoid strenuous activities until your surgeon gives you the OK.
If you need more information to choose between these two excellent cosmetic surgeries, contact us at Montante Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Center in Richmond, VA.
Call us today at (804) 325-4795 to schedule a consultation at Montante Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Center in Richmond.
