In this video I explain the difference between the 2 operations and why it matters so much after significant weight loss. Liposuction (suction assisted lipectomy) removes fat through small incisions and leaves the skin behind, relying on the skin to shrink back over the new shape. That works on skin with good elasticity. The stretched skin left after major weight loss has lost that recoil, and the idea that liposuction (suction assisted lipectomy) techniques, including VASER liposuction (ultrasound assisted lipectomy) or laser, tighten it is a myth: the shrinkage is minimal and fat removal alone can leave loose skin looser. An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) removes the loose skin and fat directly, and is the operation needed where there is hanging skin, muscle separation (diastasis recti) or a hernia. The 2 are often used together: VASER liposuction (ultrasound assisted lipectomy) can remove excess fat first, with the remaining loose skin then cut away in the same operation. Which approach suits you depends on your skin elasticity, assessed at consultation.
What this video covers
– The basic difference: abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) removes loose skin and fat, liposuction (suction assisted lipectomy) removes fat only
– The skin shrinkage myth: why liposuction (suction assisted lipectomy) techniques, including VASER and laser, produce minimal tightening and only on elastic skin
– Why stretched post weight loss skin does not shrink back after fat removal
– Combining the 2: VASER liposuction (ultrasound assisted lipectomy) to remove fat before the loose skin is excised
– Choosing the right operation: fat alone versus hanging skin, muscle separation (diastasis recti) or a hernia
Read more: Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) After Weight Loss: A Complete Guide for Post Weight Loss Patients
▬ Contents of this video ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
0:00 – Distinguishing Procedures
0:21 – The “Skin Shrinkage” Myth
0:58 – The VASER Lipo-Abdominoplasty Hybrid
1:21 – Determining the Right Procedure
Dr Bernard Beldholm (MED0001186274) MBBS BSc(Med) FRACS is a registered medical practitioner and specialist surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – general surgery). His rooms are in Lorn, in the Hunter Valley 30 minutes from Newcastle, and he operates at Maitland Private Hospital. GP referral required.
Book a consultation online:
Call: (02) 4934 5700
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Rooms
30 Belmore Rd
Lorn NSW 2320
Hospital
Maitland Private Hospital
175 Chisholm Road
East Maitland NSW 2323
Comments: questions only. Under AHPRA advertising guidelines, comments about results or experiences (testimonials) cannot be published and will be removed.
Surgery carries risks and needs recovery time; results, recovery and complications vary from patient to patient. Full information is on Dr Beldholm’s website under About, Complications and Recovery. You should seek a second opinion before proceeding.
This video is intended for viewers aged 18 and over. It is general information and does not constitute medical advice. Any patient photos or videos shown are published with the patient’s consent and are not a guarantee of a particular result; immediate post-operative appearance may differ from the final result.
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