Considering options for a flatter abdomen? Learn about the procedures available.

Vaser Liposuction and Abdominoplasty (otherwise known as Tummy Tuck) are two of the most popular and effective procedures to help address excess fat from the tummy. As this is a common problem area, among the many questions the cosmetic surgery team in Canberra get asked is what are the differences between the two procedures and which one is right for me.

Should I have Vaser Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?

Both the Vaser Liposuction procedure and Tummy Tuck can be highly effective at removing abdominal fat cells that haven’t responded to a healthy lifestyle. However, they are two entirely different cosmetic surgery options that attract different candidates and offer very different results.

We look at the key differences between the two fat reduction cosmetic procedures to help you determine which option might be right for you.

Issues addressed

Vaser Liposuction is a body contouring treatment that uses ultrasound technology to remove excess fatty tissue from areas of the body such as the abdomen, love handles and thighs. It also helps to stimulate collagen production which enables the liposuction expert to shape the body without any skin dimpling.

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a Tummy Tuck, is a surgical procedure aimed at removing excess fat and skin from the abdomen, as well as tightening the abdominal muscles for improved abdominal profile.

The procedure

Vaser Liposuction is a day procedure performed under twilight sedation in the surgical rooms of Cosmos Aesthetics. Small incisions are made in the targeted areas of the body before a cannula is inserted to gently suction up the excess fat cells and contour the body shape.

Tummy Tuck is a hospital procedure that is only performed by Cosmos Aesthetics out of Sydney & Coffs Harbour. Patients are placed under general anaesthetic before incisions are made to remove the excess skin and stubborn fat from hip to hip. Depending on the extent of the fat and skin removal, patients may need to remain in the hospital for a couple of days post-surgery.

Complexity

Vaser liposuction is performed under twilight sedation and is a less invasive cosmetic procedure when compared to Tummy Tuck. As greater incisions are made and loose skin removed and reattached in addition to fat, an abdominoplasty is a more complex surgery requiring general anaesthesia.

The cost

The cost of an Abdominoplasty procedure varies based on various factors including hospitalisation, general anaesthesia, and the complexity of the surgery. Vaser Liposuction, on the other hand, starts at $5,500.00 depending on the number of areas treated and the extent of the excess fat removal.

Recovery time

Tummy Tuck patients need to allow 2-4 weeks of recovery time post the cosmetic surgery. They will also need to make adjustments to their daily activities and exercise to allow for the skin to heal adequately. Vaser Liposuction patients can benefit from shorter downtime with most able to resume their usual activities within 2-7 days of the procedure. They will, however, be required to wear compression garments for 5-6 weeks to support the healing process.

Scarring

As only small incisions are made for liposculpture, patients will have minimal scarring. Those who opt for a Tummy Tuck will have a larger scar extending from hip to hip. In both cases, the doctor will strategically place the incisions to make them less obvious and over time the scars may fade.