How to Choose Between a Body Lift and Abdominoplasty
Loose skin around the abdomen, thighs, or hips can leave you with an undesired appearance. Since diet and exercise won’t eliminate excess skin, many people opt for more effective procedures like cosmetic surgery. Body lifts and abdominoplasties are among the cosmetic surgical treatments ideal for addressing this problem. Here’s more information about body lift and abdominoplasty procedures and how to decide between the two options:
Body Lift vs. Abdominoplasty: At a Glance
A body lift and abdominoplasty are body contouring procedures that plastic surgeons use to remove excess fats and skin. Your surgeon will sculpt your body through cosmetic surgery to tighten the skin and shape areas of your body. The main difference between the two is the target location for surgery. Abdominoplasty or a tummy tuck focuses on a patient’s abdomen and waist. The procedure gets rid of unwanted fat and skin to flatten and shape your abdomen.
A body lift is more intensive than abdominoplasty as it targets the abdomen, buttocks, hips, back, and thighs. This procedure will shape and tone an individual’s midsection, creating a more contoured body. Patients can rely on these treatments to reshape their bodies after pregnancy or weight reduction. Plastic surgeons customize each patient’s procedure to address their specific concerns.
How to Decide Between a Body Lift and Abdominoplasty
Although both surgeries seek to achieve a more sculptured appearance, their results can differ. Before choosing any option, allow your surgeon to conduct a preoperative evaluation. This evaluation allows the surgeon to determine whether you’re a good candidate for abdominoplasty or body lift. Here’s how to choose the right procedure that addresses your needs:
Reflect on Your Goals
The decision between the two procedures depends on one’s goals and desired results. You may undergo abdominoplasty if your primary concern is excess skin and fat around the abdomen. This treatment option will remove unwanted skin and fat, reshaping your belly. It’s ideal for patients who wish to tighten their abdominal muscles while creating a flatter abdominal contour.
Body lifts suit individuals who want a comprehensive transformation after childbirth or weight loss. You can choose this procedure to tighten and tone your hips, thighs, back, and abdomen. The aim is to improve your overall body contour by removing excess skin and lifting sagging tissues. Many patients opt for an abdominoplasty and body lift if they’re not planning to bear more children. The results of both surgeries diminish if they continue to bear children.
Evaluate Your Health
Body lifts and tummy tucks require good overall health. Before any procedure, evaluate your health to determine if you’re an ideal candidate for surgery. The right candidate should be in good physical condition and maintain stable weight. During consultation, a plastic surgeon will assess your weight stability and medical history. This allows them to identify potential risks and recommend the appropriate procedure.
Patients with existing health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes should discuss them with their surgeons. You should also inform them about any medications you’re taking before surgery. This information helps a surgeon manage your existing medical conditions during surgery and recovery. Surgeons may also advise patients to quit smoking and minimize alcohol intake. Smoking and alcohol intake can increase complications and hinder healing.
Think About Recovery
The recovery process and time for both cosmetic surgical procedures vary. Patients who don’t want to commit to an extended downtime may prefer abdominoplasty. The recovery timeline differs from patient to patient, lasting several weeks or months. You may experience numbness and swelling during the first week. Regular exercise and a balanced diet help promote faster healing and long-lasting results.
A body lift is a better fit for individuals who can commit to a long downtime. This procedure treats different body parts, leading to an extensive recovery process. During the first week, patients experience swelling and bruising. Surgeons advise patients to wear compression garments to reduce swelling and facilitate faster healing. They also offer exercise, wound care, and drain management instructions to prevent complications.
Improve Your Body Contour With Cosmetic Surgery
Some body parts can be hard to reshape or improve through diet and exercise. To achieve your desired results, choose a cosmetic surgical treatment that addresses your needs. Depending on the body part you want to reshape, you may opt for abdominoplasty or body lift. Consult your surgeon for any concerns regarding complications and scars after treatment. They may explain the procedure in advance and show you results from previous treatments. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about cosmetic surgery that can help improve your body shape.
