At San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery, many patients come to us desiring a taut and toned tummy. What do we recommend? The tummy-toning duo consisting of liposuction and a tummy tuck. Both body contouring procedures, liposuction and a tummy tuck are two different approaches to a slimmer midsection. Whereas liposuction removes stubborn fat, a tummy tuck removes and tightens skin. When done in one procedure, they work together to give you a trim and contoured tummy.
Liposuction
Ridding your midsection of excess fat—liposuction targets stubborn fat pockets. Not to be used for major weight loss, liposuction instead removes fat cells that have become resistant to diet and exercise. Through a small and discreet incision, fat cells are broken-up and gently suctioned out using a thin, cannula-like tube. Liposuction offers a permanent solution to pesky pouches! The body produces a finite number of fat cells, meaning that once they are removed, the body does not replace or recreate more cells.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess skin from your midsection. An incision is placed below your belly button and above your groin, stretching horizontally from hipbone to hipbone. Dr. Ortegon is skilled at creating an incision that is hidden beneath clothing or even under a swimsuit. After the excess skin has been trimmed and removed, your surgeon will tighten and repair the underlying abdominal muscles. Before closing the incision, your skin will be expertly draped—creating a slender and firm appearing stomach.
Why Together?
When done alone, a traditional tummy tuck does not remove fat, often leaving a thick layer of fatty cells and tissues in between the muscle and the skin. Similarly, if only liposuction is performed, excess skin is not removed and is left to dangle. By combining the two tummy toning procedures, you are left with a svelte and sculpted midsection.
Another plus! By undergoing both liposuction and a tummy tuck in one operation, you limit and reduce the amount of surgical trauma. Likewise, you only have one recovery period.
Dr. Ortegon takes pride in helping you achieve your body goals. Have you been dreaming of a taut tummy? Schedule a consultation with our board certified plastic surgeon to learn more about the wonders of liposuction and a tummy tuck.