3 Reasons to Combine Liposuction with a Tummy Tuck
September 14, 2016
Plastic surgery has seen an increasing demand for various combinations of different procedures performed simultaneously. While the idea of performing multiple surgeries at once is not new, technological advancements allow these procedures to be performed more easily and effectively at once than ever before.
While there are a variety of cosmetic procedures that can be performed at once, body contouring – the most common surgeries being liposuction and abdominoplasty – has become an increasingly popular combined procedure performed in our clinic.
Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as the tummy tuck, is a very common procedure for patients who wish to correct certain changes in their midsection. These changes, which are usually a result of childbirth or dramatic weight loss, can cause excess skin and damaged muscle tissue that may interfere with a person’s post-weight loss body shape.
Liposuction
Liposuction is also a very common procedure to help sculpt stubborn bulges of unwanted fat that don’t respond as easily to diet and exercise. Some of the common areas treated with liposuction include the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck.
Combining the Procedures
There are many benefits of combining liposuction and abdominoplasty. Not only are they two of the most commonly combined procedures, but the combination itself delivers the following patient outcomes:
1. More Comprehensive Results
By combining liposuction with abdominoplasty, a patient will see superior results. The two procedures are very complementary, yet each accomplishes a different goal. As mentioned, abdominoplasty surgery tightens the underlying musculature of the tummy and then removes the excess skin and tissue. Liposuction can then be used to finely contour the body, which isn’t possible with abdominoplasty surgery alone.
2. Less Downtime
Undergoing abdominoplasty surgery usually requires two weeks off from minimal activity, and approximately one month off from vigorous activity. Additionally, liposuction patients need approximately five to seven days recover time, so combining these procedures will allow for an overall quicker recovery. For many of my patients – most of whom live active lifestyles – decreasing the time spent away from family, work or leisure can be of major benefit.
Moreover, many patients who undergo two separate procedures will have to wait approximately six months in between each procedure. In other words, if a patient were to first undergo abdominoplasty surgery, and then decided to undergo liposuction afterwards, he/she would have to wait at least six months to reduce the risk of any complications associated with each surgery.
3. More Cost Effective
Many plastic surgeons (like myself) frequently combine procedures, and when we do, it becomes more cost effective for the patient. Why? Associated fees such as the surgeon’s fee and the anesthesia fee are paid once in the combined procedure as opposed to two separate times if the procedures were done separately.
While combining liposuction with abdominoplasty comes down to an individual choice, if you decide to do so, be sure to consult with a highly qualified, board certified plastic surgeon. At The Plastic Surgery Clinic, Dr. Lista and I will listen to you and help you choose the best procedure for your body and your lifestyle. Our patient-focused approach and exceptional level of experience have earned us a reputation as two of the most gifted body contouring surgeons in the Greater Toronto Area.
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