Do I Need a Tummy Tuck or Liposuction?

For men and women in Las Vegas, NV looking to improve the appearance of their midsection, understanding the difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction is essential for choosing the right procedure. In general, liposuction may be ideal for patients whose concerns are isolated to stubborn pockets of fat, while a tummy tuck is often reserved for patients with more extensive needs, including loose skin. 

At Plastic Surgery Vegas, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Terrence "Terry" Higgins and Dr. Andrew G. Silver offer both treatments to address unique body concerns. Whether you're struggling with sagging skin, stubborn fat — or both — these options can help you regain a tighter, smoother silhouette. Keep reading to learn more about abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction, and discover which approach may be most suitable for your aesthetic goals. 

What does a tummy tuck do? 

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is designed to address excess skin, stretched muscles, and stubborn fat in the midsection. It is especially popular among women who want to restore their pre-pregnancy figure but is also appropriate for men and women alike who have experienced unwanted changes due to weight loss or aging — like loose stomach skin, separated abs, and others. During a tummy tuck, the abdominal muscles are tightened, excess skin is removed, and the area is recontoured for a smoother, more youthful shape. 

Am I a candidate for tummy tuck? 

To determine whether you are a candidate for tummy tuck vs. lipo, Dr. Higgins or Dr. Silver will perform a thorough assessment and consultation. Generally speaking, you may be a candidate for a tummy tuck if you:  

• Are in good health 
• Do not smoke 
• Have sagging skin, stretch marks, or stubborn fat in the lower abdomen 
• Are at a stable weight 
• Are past childbearing years 

A tummy tuck can provide dramatic results by addressing both the skin and muscle laxity that cannot be improved through diet and exercise alone. 

What concerns can liposuction treat? 

Liposuction is a versatile procedure that focuses on removing isolated pockets of fat from areas of the body that are resistant to diet and exercise. Unlike a tummy tuck, liposuction does not address loose skin or muscle laxity. This makes it an ideal treatment for men and women with good skin elasticity who are already at or near their ideal weight but still have localized fat deposits. Common treatment areas for liposuction include:  

• Abdomen 
• Flanks (love handles) 
• Thighs 
• Upper arms 

Patients interested in liposuction should be in good health and have realistic expectations. It's also important to note that liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure and is best for patients looking to refine their body contours. Women who plan to become pregnant again should postpone liposuction, as future pregnancies could compromise their results. 

Can I combine a tummy tuck and liposuction? 

Combining a tummy tuck plus lipo can produce even more comprehensive results, particularly for patients dealing with both excess fat and loose skin. Liposuction can be performed during a tummy tuck to remove stubborn fat, while the tummy tuck addresses stretched muscles and sagging skin. For many patients, a combination of lipo plus tummy tuck offers the most compelling opportunity to achieve a dramatic, well-rounded transformation that addresses multiple concerns simultaneously. 

Do I need lipo or a tummy tuck? 

The choice between a tummy tuck vs. liposuction depends on your unique concerns and goals. If sagging skin and weakened abdominal muscles are your primary issues, a tummy tuck may be the ideal solution. However, if you have stubborn fat but good skin elasticity, liposuction might be the right choice. 

For patients who want even more definition in their abdominal area, we also offer abdominal etching. This advanced liposuction technique targets specific areas of fat to enhance the appearance of the abdominal muscles, creating a more sculpted and athletic look. Abdominal etching is an excellent choice for patients who already have a relatively toned core but want to take their results to the next level. During your consultation at Plastic Surgery Vegas, Dr. Higgins and Dr. Silver will assess your concerns, discuss your available options at length, and recommend the procedure that closely aligns with your ultimate aesthetic goals. 

Get a slimmer, smoother, more toned midsection with advanced body contouring surgery in Las Vegas, NV 

Whether you're looking to tighten your abdomen with a tummy tuck or refine your contours with liposuction, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Terrence "Terry" Higgins and Dr. Andrew G. Silver at Plastic Surgery Vegas are here to help. With personalized treatment plans, including more acute options like abdominal etching, we can help you achieve the slimmer, more sculpted look you desire. Schedule your consultation for Las Vegas body contouring surgery today to take the first step toward getting the figure you’ve been dreaming of.