
Abdominoplasty or Liposuction: Which Is Right for You?

Tired of your tummy? If you wish you could streamline your midsection, we have good news: You absolutely can!
More good news: You have more than one option for doing so. At our offices in Torrance and Los Alamitos, California, Linda Swanson, MD, offers both liposuction and abdominoplasty — commonly called a tummy tuck — to address this potential problem area.
Which should you choose? That depends. Here are a few factors to consider to help you decide.
The results
Liposuction is an excellent way to remove fat from problem areas on your stomach and flanks. If you’re tired of a pooch or love handles, Dr. Swanson can target them with lipo.
Be advised, though, that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. It’s specifically designed to address pockets of fat, not to deliver a total transformation of a body area.
For that, you’ll need to turn to a procedure like abdominoplasty — or even extended abdominoplasty. Choosing this option allows Dr. Swanson to not just remove excess fat, but also to get rid of excess skin and tighten your abdominal muscles.
The recovery time
Both tummy tucks and liposuction are usually outpatient procedures, meaning you can return home the same day.
With liposuction, most people can return to light-duty work like a desk job within a week.
Abdominoplasty comes with a longer recovery window. Generally, you’ll need to take at least two weeks off work and steer clear of anything strenuous for a month or more.
The candidacy criteria
Dr. Swanson can help you determine if you’re a good candidate for either of these options. If you’re considering a tummy tuck, for example, she might order lab work first.
Generally, you’re a good candidate for liposuction if you:
- Don’t smoke or vape
- Don’t have any pressing health conditions
- Are fairly close to your goal weight
- Have good skin elasticity
You could be a good candidate for abdominoplasty if you:
- Don’t smoke or vape
- Don’t have any pressing health conditions
- Are at a stable weight
- Aren’t considering getting pregnant in the future
Ultimately, choosing between liposuction and a tummy tuck comes down to your ideal results, what your schedule can accommodate as far as recovery time, and your current health and weight. Dr. Swanson can evaluate you and then explore your options with you.
If you’re ready to set up a consultation to see if liposuction or a tummy tuck might be right for you, call our office nearest you or book your appointment online today.
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