For certain people, despite their best diet or exercise efforts, belly fat can be hard to get rid of. Some are genetically predisposed to storing excess fat in their stomach, whereas others find that the aging process makes it difficult to lose weight. Dr. Ary Krau has good news for those that want to break up with belly fat. The board certified Miami plastic surgeon offers several procedures to remove belly fat (and possibly excess skin) for a slimmer stomach. Here, he explains the available options.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a well-known body sculpting procedure designed for individuals that have a disproportionately large amount of fat in a specific body area. Liposuction can be used to reduce surplus fat on the abdomen and sculpt the contours of the waist.
Dr. Krau relies on the power-assisted liposuction approach to achieve great looking results. Using a mechanical, oscillating cannula, he gently breaks up stubborn belly fat and gently suctions it from the stomach. He knows exactly how much fat to remove — and how much to leave — for a beautiful outcome. Dr. Krau can also take some of the liposuctioned fat and transfer it to areas of the body that need fullness and shape (this is known as a fat transfer).
Note that it is important that liposuction candidates are close to their goal weight or slightly above it, and that they have relatively good skin elasticity. Firm, elastic skin will “snap back” into place over the stomach after the fat has been removed.
Tummy Tuck
Individuals that are concerned about excess belly fat and loose, saggy skin on the abdomen may be better suited for a procedure known as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). Tummy tuck removes the fat and extra skin, and also treats damaged or weakened abdominal muscles. (Multiple pregnancies, massive weight fluctuation and abdominal surgery are all factors that can damage the muscles.) Because of these steps, tummy tuck is a more complex operation than liposuction.
During the tummy tuck operation, Dr. Krau uses liposuction techniques to remove stubborn belly fat. He excises extra skin, which sometimes improves the look of stretch marks underneath the navel. He can relocate the navel to a higher position on the stomach, if needed. Dr. Krau stitches together separated abdominal muscles. Finally, he re-drapes the skin tighter across the abdomen.
Which Procedure Is Right for You?
To determine whether tummy tuck or liposuction is a better option for your treatment goals, please schedule an informational consultation with Dr. Krau. Call us today at (305) 861-6881 to make an appointment.