A liposuction and a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, are both types of plastic surgery which reshape the abdomen for a slimmer and smoother look. Liposuction can also be done on other parts or the body, including the thighs, hips, back arms and even face. While both procedures are used for cosmetic improvement, they are quite different. Liposuction only removes fat deposits, while a tummy tuck repairs damaged muscles that cause the stomach to protrude. Neither procedure is done for weight loss.
Procedures
A plastic surgeon performs liposuction by making small incisions in the body and inserting a device called a cannula, which literally vacuums out fat deposits. In a tummy tuck, the surgeon makes a large horizontal incision to open the abdominal area. He then repairs stomach muscles that are weak or torn. Excess skin is removed. Liposuction can be, and often is, done under local anesthesia, while a tummy tuck is major abdominal surgery and requires general anesthesia.
Recovery
Both procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, although many plastic surgeons require a tummy tuck patient to stay at least one night in the hospital. Both liposuction and tummy tuck patients need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to reduce swelling. After an abdominoplasty, a patient will have drains placed under the skin to rid the body of extra fluids. The drains are removed a few days after surgery. Liposuction patients occasionally have to use drains, as well. Recovery time is shorter with liposuction. Most patients begin to feel better and get back to their routines within a week. A tummy tuck requires a longer recovery time, since it is major surgery. Most patients need about four weeks. Both procedures can cause pain and swelling, and tummy tuck patients need about a week of bed rest.
Costs
Liposuction and abdominoplasty are both considered to be cosmetic procedures which are rarely covered by health insurance. A tummy tuck incurs a higher cost than liposuction, and can run as high as $10,000 (as of 2009). Patients need to take into account not only the doctor's fee, but the hospital and anesthesiologist's costs.
Risks
There are always risks with any surgical procedure. Although rare, liposuction or a tummy tuck can cause infection, scarring, uneven contours, nerve damage, skin numbness and clots. Abdominoplasty patients should realize they will have a large scar following the procedure. For a woman who has had a cesarean section, the surgeon may be able to incorporate the tummy tuck scar into that one.
Pregnancy
It is generally safe to become pregnant after liposuction. Once the baby is born, the woman's body will return to the shape it was after liposuction. Since the fat deposits have been removed, it is impossible for them to return. A woman can also safely become pregnant after a tummy tuck. However, pregnancy greatly stretches the abdominal skin and muscles, and it can easily undo the repair done by the abdominoplasty.
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