Procedures >> Body Contouring
Tummy Tuck
Tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a common term for the surgical procedure to correct a protruding or loose, sagging abdomen. Areas to be treated may include the center of the abdomen or may extend to the entire area between the lower rib cage and pubic bone, as well as to the sides and b ack. A full tummy tuck requires a horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and navel. The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the degree of correction necessary. Through this incision, weakened abdominal muscles are repaired and excess fat, tissue and skin is removed. A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen. Incision size is largely dependant on the amount of excess skin to be removed. Where correction is isolated to the area below the navel, a limited or mini tummy tuck with a shorter incision at the pubic bone may be recommended. A tummy tuck results almost immediately in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight. The final results may be initially obscured by swelling and your inability to stand fully upright until internal healing is complete. Within a week or two, you should be standing tall and confident about your new slimmer profile.
Liposuction
Liposuction is the surgical removal of localized or regional excess fatty tissue. There are common variations to the procedure including traditional liposuction, tumescent technique that requires infusion of saline solution, and ultrasound assisted lipoplasty or UAL, where ultrasonic energy is used to liquefy excess fat prior to surgical suctioning. These techniques may be used to reduce localized fat deposits of the chin, upper arms, back, abdomen, hips, thighs, and inner knees. In some cases, liposuction is performed alone, in other cases it is used with plastic surgery procedures such as a tummy tuck. Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for proper diet and exercise. It is also not an effective treatment for cellulite. Liposuction can, however, permanently reshape body contours where excess fat deposits create areas that are disproportionately large in an otherwise balanced figure. Liposuction is performed through small, inconspicuous incisions that are hidden within the natural creases and contours of the body. A thin hollow tube, or cannula , is inserted through these incisions to loosen excess fat using a controlled back and forth motion. The dislodged fat is then suctioned out of the body using a surgical vacuum or syringe attached to the cannula. Your improved body contour will be appearance once swelling and fluid retention commonly experienced following liposuction subside. With continued practices of healthy diet and fitness, the loss of excess fatty tissue should be permanently maintained. However, substantial weight gain can alter an otherwise permanent result. Initial healing will include swelling, numbness, soreness, bruising, and discomfort that can be controlled with medication. In general, a return to light, normal activity is possible as soon as you feel ready, typically within 5 to 10 days.