A slender, more toned midsection can be attained in a variety of ways, with the two most popular being weight loss and abdominoplasty (or also known as tummy tuck surgery). Although they may both contribute to a contoured core, they are two very different procedures.
To learn about how weight loss and abdominoplasty differ, keep on reading!
What is weight loss?
Weight loss is the process of reducing body fat, typically by combining a healthy diet with exercise. The benefits of this approach, which focuses on the body as a whole rather than just the stomach, can be far-reaching. Weight loss can improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like type 2 diabetes and some cancers, in addition to reducing the appearance of a belly pooch.
What is abdominoplasty?
On the other hand, abdominoplasty is a surgical treatment that includes tightening the underlying muscles and removing extra skin and fat from the abdominal region. While abdominoplasty is not a weight reduction procedure, it can be a good choice for people who have already lost weight but are still bothered by excess skin or a stubborn belly bulge that does not seem to go away.
Key differences between the two
1. The areas targeted
One of the biggest differences between weight loss and abdominoplasty is the area targeted.
As mentioned earlier, weight loss is defined as the reduction in body mass and body fat. This can be achieved by consuming fewer calories than you burn each day, which forces the body to convert the calories that have been stored in your body as fat into energy to be used.
Contrary to popular belief, abdominoplasty surgery in Singapore is not a weight loss procedure. While it is normal to expect a reduction in the appearance of an abdominal bulge, it is crucial to remember that abdominoplasty surgery tightens weak abdominal muscles. This means that abdominoplasty may not be able to eliminate visceral fat that is positioned behind these muscles.
2. Time taken for results to show
Another key difference between weight loss and abdominoplasty is the time it takes to see results. The gradual process of losing weight calls for consistency and perseverance. Weight loss can take a few weeks, several months, or even years, depending on the individual’s starting weight, lifestyle, and objectives. Results of weight loss can also differ based on factors like age, gender, and genetics.
On the other hand, abdominoplasty offers quicker results. In fact, patients can anticipate seeing a flatter and more toned abdominal region right away following surgery. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that there will be some swelling and bruising initially, but this will usually go away in several weeks.
3. Level of commitment required
To sustain weight loss, one must make a long-term commitment to a healthy diet and regular exercise. Some people may find this difficult, especially those who have trouble maintaining a regular schedule or who have underlying medical issues that make losing weight more difficult.
In contrast, abdominoplasty is a one-time operation that, with the right post-operative care, can produce long-lasting results. Although patients will still need to lead a healthy lifestyle to avoid further weight fluctuations, the surgically achieved aesthetic improvements of a tummy tuck are long-lasting and can even be permanent.
Which is for you?
The answer to this question will depend largely on your personal goals and suitability.
For reference, anyone who wants to get rid of a stubborn protruding stomach caused by weakened abdominal muscles, is within 30% of their ideal body weight, and is in good health can consider undergoing abdominoplasty.
But if you are looking for drastic weight loss caused by fat from obesity or are pregnant or breastfeeding, then a tummy tuck is not suitable for you.
The perfect middle-ground: Combining liposuction and abdominoplasty
What if we told you that you could remove both fat and tighten weakened abdominal muscles at the same time?
If that sounds of interest to you, consider combining liposuction with abdominoplasty.
Suction is used during the surgical process of liposuction to remove fat from specific body parts. The arms, neck, thighs, hips, buttocks, and belly are some of the areas in which this procedure is commonly performed on.
Individuals who are presently within their ideal body weight range but would like to get rid of stubborn fat deposits that do not go away even with exercise and/or a healthy diet are good candidates for liposuction.
A tummy tuck and liposuction are two separate operations. While a tummy tuck is a more invasive procedure that includes several aspects of correction, liposuction is mainly a contouring procedure. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that tummy tucks and liposuction are commonly performed together.
Combining these two fat-moving and skin-tightening procedures can produce notable results that simultaneously handle the problems of excess skin and stubborn fat. Additionally, it enables you to achieve better body contouring results, which can be difficult for some people to achieve if done independently!
Improve your body image with The Clifford Surgery Clinic
In conclusion, losing weight and undergoing an abdominoplasty are two distinct ways to get a midsection that is flatter and more toned. You may also consider combining liposuction and abdominoplasty for better results.
Ultimately, the ideal approach for you will rely on your goals, lifestyle, suitability, and general health. Before making any decisions, it is crucial to go over your options with a licensed professional.
Here at The Clifford Surgery Clinic, we are a plastic surgery clinic in Novena with certified doctors that have the expertise to perform a range of cosmetic surgery procedures, including liposuction, full and mini tummy tuck in Singapore and more. Our goal is to provide you with the safest and most comfortable process with the best outcomes. Our experienced surgeons will provide you with the best care prior to, during, and following the procedure. You will be in good hands when you choose The Clifford Surgery Clinic.
Schedule an appointment with us today!