Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Which is Better? 

For patients looking to flatten and tone their midsection, understanding which cosmetic procedure can help is key.

In this blog, we will discuss two procedures for toning your tummy, liposuction and a tummy tuck, so that you can better assess which is right for your body and aesthetic goals. 

At the CREO Clinic, Dr. Omar Tillo specialises in body contouring procedures, and has extensive experience conducting bespoke tummy tuck and liposuction surgeries. Contact the CREO Clinic today, and get one step closer to your newly taut tummy. 

How Are the Procedures Similar?

Both liposuction and a tummy tuck are cosmetic procedures that have similar goals – they are designed to tone the midsection, creating a more aesthetically pleasing, flatter stomach. 

How Are the Procedures Different?

The main difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction is that a tummy tuck is designed to remove excess skin and tighten the remaining skin only. However, liposuction is designed to remove fat cells from across different, targeted areas in the body, such as the upper and lower abdomen, back, upper arms and thighs, among others  

The Procedure

During a full tummy tuck, incisions are made along the bikini line and around the belly button. Any excess, loose skin is then removed, and any muscle separation is repaired. Finally, the remaining skin and belly button are repositioned to create a natural-looking finish. 

Comparatively, liposuction targets stubborn fat deposits only, and is an overall less invasive procedure requiring smaller incisions. A suction cannula is inserted into the targeted area before the liposuction device is then used to break up and remove excess fat tissue, after which the incisions can be closed. 

The Results

After a tummy tuck, your stomach will immediately appear flatter and tighter now that any lax skin has been removed and the muscles have been repaired. However, the final results will only become apparent after swelling has completely subsided, which can take up to 6-12 months. After this, you will be able to get the full effect of your newly contoured and flatter abdomen, free from excess skin.  

Liposuction immediately removes the targeted, stubborn fat deposits from the abdomen and, in doing so, will noticeably flatten the area. Final results are usually visible much quicker from liposuction compared to a tummy tuck, typically taking around 12 weeks, when swelling subsides.

Recovery Timelines

The recovery period for liposuction tends to be shorter when compared to a tummy tuck, as the procedure is much less invasive. 

You should be able to do most light, daily activities a week after liposuction, and 1-2 weeks after a tummy tuck. You will be required to wear a compression garment for 6 weeks after both surgeries to reduce swelling. 

Longevity 

Both liposuction and a tummy tuck are permanent procedures in that the fat deposits and excess skin are permanently removed, respectively. 

For both procedures, maintaining a stable weight is essential in getting the most out of your newly slender tummy. For advice on keeping to a healthy diet, consider working with our nutritionist. 

Risks

Prior to any procedure, a full assessment is performed to determine your suitability for surgery. However, like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with liposuction and a tummy tuck. 

The risks of liposuction include skin laxity and sagging, as well as surface irregularities. For those undergoing a tummy tuck, risks include visible scarring, wound breakdown and delayed healing. 

Candidacy

Most patients in good overall health and a BMI under 30, who are looking to tone their midsection by removing excess skin, often caused by pregnancy, weight loss or ageing, are good candidates for a tummy tuck. 

However, patients with a BMI over 30 but under 35 can still undergo liposuction at the CREO Clinic. This is ideal for those seeking to remove stubborn pockets of fat that have been unresponsive to diet and exercise alone.  

Costs

The price of liposuction at the CREO Clinic for the abdomen starts from £5,900 for one treated area, but can vary depending on the number of areas that require work. In general, liposuction tends to be less expensive compared to a tummy tuck as its a less complex procedure, doesnt usually require general anaesthetic and takes a shorter time to complete.

In comparison, the price of a tummy tuck at the CREO Clinic starts at £9,900 for a mini tummy tuck, with a full tummy tuck starting from £13,750.

Which Is Right for Me?

Types of Tummy Tucks

There are several variations of tummy tuck procedures, each with varying degrees of invasiveness. A standard full abdominoplasty, as described above, is ideal for those with moderate-to-severe laxity. If skin laxity is less severe, a less invasive mini tummy tuck may be more suitable. 

Other variations include an extended tummy tuck which covers the lower flanks, and a fleur-de-lis, that focuses on removing vertical skin excess. 

Types of Liposuction

At the CREO Clinic, we offer a wide range of liposuction technologies, including VASER, PAL, BodyTite and Renuvion. Following a consultation with Dr. Tillo, we will design a bespoke treatment plan for your body’s unique needs.

360 liposuction is a type of liposuction that focuses on the removal of fat across the entire circumference of the midsection. This includes the upper and lower abdomen, the flanks and the mid-to-lower back. It is an ideal type of lipo for gaining a flatter, more toned tummy.  

Combining Tummy Tuck and Lipo (Lipoabdominoplasty)

If you have both loose skin and extra fat that you wish to remove, combining liposuction with a tummy tuck (lipoabdominoplasty) can provide a more comprehensive transformation for your midsection. By undergoing both surgeries, you reap the benefits of removing both the excess skin and stubborn fat deposits, creating a flatter, more defined abdomen. 

Schedule a Consultation with CREO Clinic Today

Contact the CREO Clinic today to schedule a 1-to-1 consultation with our esteemed body contouring surgeon, Dr. Omar Tillo. 

Dr. Tillo will carefully assess which procedure is right for you and your body, using his vast expertise to design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your aesthetic needs.