Individuals reviewing plastic surgery options can choose between tummy tucks or body lifts. One helps flatten the stomach, whereas the other focuses on tightening or removing loose skin. Here are some other differences between the two procedures:
Abdominoplasty or Tummy Tuck
This plastic surgery option slims and shapes the abdomen and waist. The surgeon will either flatten or remove excess skin. If any loose muscles are present, the surgeon can tighten them or place them back into position. This surgery may appeal to individuals who are in good physician shape with pockets of fat or loose skin. Candidates who have undergone significant weight changes, pregnancies, or natural aging will benefit from a tummy tuck.
Preparation: What To Do
A consultation is needed for both the physician and the individual. During this time, the surgeon will ask various questions about your medical history, including your general health, previous surgeries, and current medications. The surgeon will also address your goals and expectations for the procedure. The more they learn, the better they can help explain how a tummy tuck will benefit your situation.
Leading up to the surgery, it’s key to avoid any smoking or tobacco products for recovery. A well-balanced diet and complete meals will also help the healing process post-surgery. During the consultation, the surgeon may recommend certain medications to stop, such as blood thinners or dietary supplements.
Surgery: What To Expect
Once everything is prepared, the procedure itself may last two to five hours. The steps during the surgery will vary, depending on the type of tummy tuck or goals presented to the surgeon. General anesthesia is applied, and after the procedure and observation, you’ll be able to return home. Recovery time usually takes two weeks to a few months.
Circumferential Torsoplasty or Body Lift
A body lift procedure also removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles to tone the midsection. While the tummy tuck and body lift have similarities, the body lift will focus on the torso, upper legs, and more. Candidates who have gone through significant weight loss and struggle with inelastic skin will benefit from this surgery. Other changes or qualifications for this surgery include:
- Loose skin along the waistline, legs, and buttocks
- Able to maintain a stable, healthy weight
- Willing to accept slight scarring along the waistline or lower back
Surgery: What To Expect
Once the consultation and full medical history are complete, preparation for surgery is the same for a tummy tuck. This procedure can take up to three to seven hours with general anesthesia. Due to the lengthy timeframe, it’s not uncommon to combine it with others, such as facelifts or arm lifts, to maintain proper body proportion.
Prior to surgery, the surgeon will draw lines around the desired areas talked about during the consultation. This helps them determine the best places for incisions. Once the anesthesia is applied, any excess skin is removed for a smooth, toned appearance. Loose muscles are tightened and repositioned if needed. Depending on the individual’s situation, the navel may be repositioned as well.
Recovery: What To Do
After the procedure and approval to leave for home, recovery may take up to four to six weeks. Surgical tubes might be in place to drain any residual fluid, and compression garments may be recommended to reduce swelling. During the healing process, make sure to change bandages and manage the tubes until the physician removes them. In the meantime, avoid exercising or lifting any heavy objects until the complete four to six weeks. Swelling and bruising may take a few weeks to subside, and scars will fade. It can also take up to a year or more for skin and muscles to settle into their new position.
Tummy Tuck Versus Body Lift
Both plastic surgeries contour and sculpt the body according to the individual and their goals. While a tummy tuck will focus on removing any excess belly skin and reshaping the abdomen area, the body lift focuses on multiple areas at once. Both offer various benefits to retighten muscles and skin. When health and fitness goals do not achieve the desired results, both surgeries offer a tailored solution.
Our surgeons at Somerset Plastic Surgery will help determine which procedure will benefit and safely deliver the desired goals. After a detailed assessment and consultation, we can help make a personalized plan for your situation.
Book a Consultation With Our Plastic Surgery Team
Tummy tucks and body lifts are but a few procedures offered by our team at Somerset Plastic Surgery. Each procedure requires some preparation and recovery time, but it will help you achieve your desired look. Our team will work with you to learn more about your general history and determine which options suit your situation best. If you’re looking to achieve a more toned appearance, contact us for a consultation today and learn more about our services.