Abdominal Surgery: A Guide to Liposuction and Tummy Tuck
Abdominal Surgery: A Guide to Liposuction and Tummy Tuck
Are you frustrated with stubborn areas of fat that won’t budge despite diet and exercise? Do you want to achieve a flatter, tighter tummy? Abdominal surgery, including liposuction and tummy tuck surgery, can help address these concerns and give you the body you’ve always wanted.
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction, also known as liposculpture, is a cosmetic procedure that permanently removes fat through suction using a cannula. The goal of liposuction is to contour and sculpt targeted areas to achieve a natural shape. Men and women within their optimal weight range typically achieve the best results with liposuction.
Liposuction can be performed under general or twilight anesthesia. Dr. Bobby Kumar uses the “Superwet Technique,” which has scientifically proven and effective results. Other methods, such as freezing or radiowaves, may come with a significant price tag and require repeated treatments but have not been proven scientifically to remove fat cells or achieve results equivalent to liposuction.
Typical areas addressed with liposuction include the tummy, love handles, hips/thighs, male breast reduction, and neck or chin. For some patients seeking to address areas such as the tummy or arms, liposuction alone may not achieve the desired results of a smooth, contoured appearance. In these cases, it is often combined with another procedure, such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery) or arm lift surgery.
What is Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that achieves a flat, tight tummy by removing residual excess tissue and skin and tightening the underlying tummy muscles. Liposuction may also be used to create a natural and contoured result.
Who is a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
If you have tried diet and exercise but are frustrated by that last bit of tummy fat and skin that won’t budge, tummy tuck surgery might be for you. If you are a mom wanting to restore the flatness and firmness of your pre-pregnancy tummy, tummy tuck surgery can help. Additionally, if you have lost weight but are left with excess hanging skin, tummy tuck surgery can help you achieve a smoother, more toned appearance.
Can Liposuction Alone Create a Flat, Tight Tummy?
Liposuction works well as an independent procedure if the underlying tummy muscles are already tight, only a small amount of fat requires removal, and the skin has good elasticity. However, in most cases, liposuction is combined with other procedures such as tummy tuck surgery to achieve the desired results of a flat, tight tummy.
Can I Have Tummy Tuck Surgery if I am Overweight?
Tummy tuck surgery should not be used as a weight loss strategy. Dr. Bobby Kumar recommends that patients are at or close to their optimal weight to achieve the best results. Tummy tuck surgery is most effective for patients who have already lost weight and are left with excess skin and tissue.
Final Thoughts
Abdominal surgery, including liposuction and tummy tuck surgery, can help you achieve the body you’ve always wanted. Whether you are frustrated with stubborn areas of fat or excess skin and tissue after weight loss or pregnancy, these procedures can help you achieve a flatter, more toned appearance. Dr. Bobby Kumar is a Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine and uses scientifically proven techniques to achieve the best results for his patients.
FAQ
Q: Is liposuction painful?
A: Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves removing fat through a suction tube. While the procedure itself is not painful due to anesthesia, patients may experience mild discomfort and soreness afterward. This discomfort can be managed with pain medication and typically resolves within a few days to a week. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions to minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal results.
Q: What is the recovery time for abdominal surgery?
A: The recovery time for abdominal surgery varies depending on the specific procedure and the individual patient’s healing process. Generally, patients can expect to take at least 1-2 weeks off from work and other normal activities to rest and recover. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Q: Will there be scarring after abdominal surgery?
A: Yes, there will be some scarring after abdominal surgery. However, the extent of scarring depends on the specific procedure and the individual’s healing process. Your surgeon will make every effort to minimise scarring by placing incisions in discreet locations and using techniques to promote optimal healing. Over time, scars usually fade and become less noticeable.
Q: What are the risks and complications of abdominal surgery?
A: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with abdominal surgery. These may include bleeding, infection, blood clots, anesthesia complications, and adverse reactions to medications. Your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you prior to surgery and take all necessary precautions to minimise your risk of complications.
Q: How long do the results of abdominal surgery last?
A: The results of abdominal surgery are intended to be long-lasting. However, the longevity of the results depends on factors such as the patient’s lifestyle, weight fluctuations, and natural aging process. Patients can maintain their results by following a healthy diet and exercise regimen and avoiding significant weight gain or loss.
Q: Is abdominal surgery covered by insurance?
A: Abdominal surgery may be covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary. However, if the procedure is being performed solely for cosmetic purposes, it is typically not covered by insurance. Patients should check with their insurance provider to determine coverage eligibility.