What’s The Difference Between a Tummy Tuck and Liposuction?

For men and women today, the excess accumulation of stubborn fat cells in the abdominal area is one of the most common aesthetic challenges. This can result in a protruding stomach and belly area that is of concern to many. Many factors contribute to the development of this condition including a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, genetics, and more.

Two of the most effective cosmetic procedures to achieve a flatter abdominal area are a tummy tuck and liposuction. At McLean Clinic, we offer these procedures in the privacy of our clinic in Mississauga and our team of experienced plastic surgeons will be able to recommend the best treatment approach to address your unique needs and concerns, while also providing you with all the information you need to ensure you are making the best, most informed decision.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction

While both procedures are completed in the stomach and abdominal area, tummy tucks and liposuction have different functions.

A Tummy Tuck will reduce excess fat cells and sagging skin from the stomach area through incisions and the removal of skin. The procedure can also be used to tighten the muscles under the surface of the skin if they are separated or loose, which can occur after pregnancy.

Liposuction is the removal of fat cells through a suction tube. It is most appropriate when a patient has good skin elasticity and stubborn fat deposits. Liposuction can be performed not only in the stomach area, but also in other areas such as the hips, legs, and buttocks. While small incisions are made during this procedure, skin is not removed like it is in a tummy tuck. Liposuction may also be combined with a tummy tuck to remove excess fat that is otherwise difficult to eliminate.

Who is the ideal Tummy Tuck candidate?

Tummy tucks are the most appropriate for patients who have sagginess or excess hanging skin around the abdominal area after significant weight loss or after multiple pregnancies. Most candidates are above the age of 40 to 45 because skin elasticity is reduced at this age and the muscles under the skin may be loose or separated by this time.

For female patients, we strongly advise against completing a tummy tuck until you complete your family or when your child bearing years are over. This is because there is a very strong likelihood that the skin will be further stretched during pregnancy and your tummy tuck results will likely be reversed.

Who is the ideal Liposuction candidate?

Liposuction is a great option for patients who have stubborn fat deposits under the skin and cannot eliminate them with regular diet and exercise. Many liposuction patients are under the age of 40 and have good skin elasticity. Ideal candidates have a moderate body weight and have excess fat deposits in certain areas of their body (ie: abdonimal, hips, legs, etc).

Non-surgical liposuction is a great alternative to patients who have small deposits of fat on areas of the body they would like to eliminate. Procedures such as CoolSculpting delivers controlled cooling to targeted areas to freeze localized areas of fat, which is later naturally eliminated by the body. With no incisions or long, significant periods of downtime and recovery, CoolSculpting has quickly made its way to the forefront of minimally invasive non-surgical fat reduction techniques.

Book your consultation at our private office today and let us help you determine which procedure is best for your unique body and your goals!