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Does Insurance Ever Cover a Tummy Tuck? Find Out Here

Introduction

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. It can be performed on both men and women who have loose or sagging abdominal skin due to pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging.

Definition of Tummy Tuck

Tummy tucks are designed to contour the abdomen into a smoother, firmer shape by removing excess skin and fat. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the lower abdomen and then separate the skin from the underlying muscle tissue. The surgeon will then remove any excess skin and fat before tightening the abdominal muscles with sutures.

Overview of Procedure

The length of a tummy tuck procedure depends on various factors such as how much loose skin needs to be removed and whether additional procedures like liposuction are necessary. Generally speaking, tummy tucks take between two and four hours to complete.

Reasons to Undergo Surgery

Some people opt for a tummy tuck because they are unhappy with their post-pregnancy figure or have recently lost a significant amount of weight. Others may choose to undergo abdominoplasty if they have been unable to achieve their desired body shape through diet and exercise alone. Ultimately, it is up to each individual patient to decide if a tummy tuck is right for them.

Does Insurance Cover a Tummy Tuck?

When considering a tummy tuck, one of the first questions that arises is whether insurance will cover the cost. Unfortunately, most insurance providers do not cover the cost of a tummy tuck, as it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Medicare Coverage Requirements

Medicare does not typically cover the cost of a tummy tuck unless it is medically necessary due to an underlying medical condition or injury. In such cases, Medicare may pay for part or all of the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary and approved by Medicare. However, these cases are rare and must be approved on an individual basis.

Medicaid Coverage Requirements

Medicaid coverage requirements vary from state to state. Generally speaking, Medicaid does not cover the cost of a tummy tuck unless it is deemed medically necessary due to an underlying medical condition or injury. As with Medicare coverage, these cases are rare and must be approved on an individual basis.

Other Insurance Providers

Most other insurance providers do not cover the cost of a tummy tuck as it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. However, some providers may offer limited coverage for certain procedures related to the tummy tuck such as liposuction or hernia repair if they are deemed medically necessary. It is important to check with your specific provider to see what types of coverage they offer for cosmetic surgery procedures.

Payment Plan Options

For those who do not have insurance coverage for their tummy tuck procedure, there are payment plan options available through most cosmetic surgeons and clinics. These plans allow patients to spread out their payments over time in order to make the procedure more affordable and accessible. It is important to note that these payment plans typically require a down payment at the time of booking and may also include interest charges depending on the terms of each plan.

In conclusion, while most insurance providers do not cover the cost of a tummy tuck as it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure, some may offer limited coverage for certain procedures related to the tummy tuck if they are deemed medically necessary. Additionally, there are payment plan options available through most cosmetic surgeons and clinics that allow patients to spread out their payments over time in order to make the procedure more affordable and accessible.

Insurance Provider
Coverage
Payment Plan Options
Medicare
Rarely covers cost if medically necessary and approved by Medicare.
N/A
Medicaid
Varies by state; rarely covers cost if medically necessary.
N/A
Other Providers
Does not cover cost as it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure; may offer limited coverage for certain procedures related to the tummy tuck if deemed medically necessary.
Payment plans available through most cosmetic surgeons and clinics that allow patients to spread out their payments over time. Typically require a down payment at the time of booking and may also include interest charges depending on the terms of each plan.

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles. It is typically performed to improve the appearance of the midsection, but can also be used to correct medical conditions such as hernia repair and umbilical hernia. The procedure can also help restore weakened or separated abdominal muscles caused by pregnancy or weight gain.

Definition and Purpose of the Procedure

The purpose of a tummy tuck is to reduce the size and shape of the abdomen, resulting in a smoother and flatter appearance. During the procedure, excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen and waistline. The remaining skin is then tightened with sutures to create a firmer abdominal wall. In some cases, liposuction may be used to remove stubborn pockets of fat from other areas of the body.

Abdominal Muscle Repair

In addition to removing excess skin and fat, a tummy tuck can also be used to repair weakened or separated abdominal muscles. During this portion of the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision along the lower abdomen and use sutures to bring together any separated muscles. This helps create a stronger core foundation for improved posture and athletic performance.

Recovery Timeline

Most patients experience minimal pain after their tummy tuck surgery; however, they should expect some swelling and bruising in the days following their procedure. Patients are usually able to return to light activities within one week; however, strenuous activity should be avoided for at least six weeks after surgery in order to ensure proper healing.

Benefits and Risks of the Procedure

The benefits of a tummy tuck include improved abdominal contours, reduced waist circumference, increased self-confidence, improved posture, better core strength, and improved clothing fit. As with any surgical procedure there are risks associated with abdominoplasty including infection, scarring, blood clots, nerve damage, anesthesia complications, fluid accumulation under the skin (seroma), asymmetry of results due to uneven healing or muscle tightening, unsatisfactory results due to poor healing or inadequate tissue removal/tightening during surgery.

Overall, a tummy tuck can provide dramatic improvements in appearance while restoring weakened abdominal muscles back into place for improved posture and physical performance.

How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost?

When considering a tummy tuck, one of the first questions that comes to mind is “how much does it cost?” The cost of a tummy tuck can vary greatly depending on the type of procedure being performed and the geographical area in which you live. In general, the average cost of a tummy tuck in San Diego is between $7000 and $10,000. This price range includes all costs associated with the procedure, including anesthesia fees, operating room fees, and surgeon fees.

Cost Breakdown for Different Procedures

The cost of a tummy tuck will depend on the type of procedure being performed. For example, if you are only having liposuction or skin tightening procedures done, then your total cost will be lower than if you opt for a full abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). Additionally, if you choose to have muscle repair or hernia repair done during your tummy tuck procedure, then this will also increase your overall cost.

Financing Options for Cosmetic Surgery Patients

Many cosmetic surgery patients opt to finance their procedures through medical financing companies such as CareCredit or Prosper Healthcare Lending. These companies offer low-interest loans to cover the cost of cosmetic surgery procedures. Additionally, many plastic surgeons offer payment plan options that allow patients to pay for their procedures over time. It is important to carefully consider all financing options before committing to any loan agreement.

Average Cost of a Tummy Tuck in San Diego

In San Diego, the average cost for a tummy tuck ranges from $7000 to $10,000 depending on the complexity of the procedure and other factors such as geographic location and surgeon experience. If you are considering undergoing a tummy tuck procedure in San Diego, it is important to research different surgeons and compare pricing before making your final decision. Additionally, it is important to understand what costs are included in your final bill so that you can accurately budget for your surgery.

Procedure
Average Cost in San Diego
Liposuction or Skin Tightening
$7000 – $10,000
Full Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
$7000 – $10,000
Muscle Repair or Hernia Repair
Varies

Conclusion

A tummy tuck is an effective way to reduce the appearance of excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. It can also help improve the shape and tone of the abdominal muscles. While insurance typically does not cover tummy tucks, there are financing options available for those who wish to have this procedure done. The cost of a tummy tuck is dependent on several factors such as the type of procedure being performed, the geographic location, and additional costs associated with anesthesia and post-operative care. With proper research and planning, individuals considering a tummy tuck can make informed decisions about their health and beauty goals.

Breast Implant Manufacturers and Warranties

Introduction

Breast implants are prosthetic devices used to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. There are two main types of breast implants, saline and silicone. Mentor and Natrelle are two leading companies in the medical device industry that manufacture breast implants. Both companies offer warranties on their products with different coverage levels depending on the type of implant purchased. This article will provide an overview of both Mentor and Natrelle, including their background information, types of implants available, and warranty information. It will also answer some common questions about breast implant warranties.

Definition of Breast Implants

A breast implant is an artificial device made from a silicone outer shell filled with either a saline or silicone gel solution. The device is surgically placed beneath the chest muscles or breast tissue to increase the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. Breast implants come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for customization to meet each individual’s needs.

Overview of Mentor and Natrelle

Mentor is one of the most well-known manufacturers of medical devices, including breast implants. Founded in 1969, they have been providing women with quality products for over 50 years. Their implants are FDA approved and come with a 10 year warranty on both saline and silicone implants.

Natrelle is another leading manufacturer in the medical device industry that offers high quality products for women seeking to enhance their appearance through breast augmentation surgery. They offer a variety of different shapes and sizes to meet each patient’s individual needs as well as a 10 year warranty on both saline and silicone implants.

Overview of Warranties

Both Mentor and Natrelle offer warranties on their products that cover replacement or repair due to manufacturing defects up to 10 years after the date of purchase or initial implantation surgery. These warranties do not cover any additional costs such as surgical fees or hospital stays associated with replacing or repairing any defective product.

Purpose of Article

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of both Mentor and Natrelle, including their background information, types of implants offered, warranty information, and answers to common questions about breast implant warranties so that potential patients can make an informed decision when considering breast augmentation surgery.

Mentor

Background Information

Mentor is a company that has been in the breast implant industry since 1969. It is one of the largest and most experienced suppliers of silicone gel-filled breast implants in the world. Mentor offers a variety of products including saline-filled, cohesive gel-filled, and anatomical shaped implants. The company also manufactures tissue expanders for reconstruction after mastectomy. Mentor has a long history of providing quality products to customers, backed by extensive research and development.

Types of Implants Offered

Mentor offers several types of implants for women considering breast augmentation surgery. Their cohesive gel-filled implants are designed to provide a natural look and feel while maintaining their shape over time. These implants come in different sizes and shapes so that patients can choose the best option for their body type. Additionally, Mentor provides anatomical shaped implants that are designed to mimic the natural curves of the female body. Finally, Mentor also offers saline-filled implants as an alternative option for those looking for a more affordable option.

Warranty Information

Mentor provides comprehensive warranties on all their breast implants. Their warranties cover both implant rupture and capsular contracture, two common complications associated with breast augmentation surgery. In addition to covering these two complications, Mentor also covers any additional costs associated with replacing or repairing ruptured or defective products due to manufacturer’s defect or other factors within five years from the date of purchase. Furthermore, Mentor provides lifetime product replacement if any implant fails due to manufacturing defects within 10 years from the date of purchase. This warranty applies regardless of how many times the implant has been replaced or repaired during this period.

Natrelle

Background Information

Natrelle is a brand of breast implants made by Allergan, Inc. Allergan, Inc. is a global pharmaceutical company that specializes in products for the aesthetic industry, including breast implants, dermal fillers and facial injectables. Natrelle implants are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to meet the needs of each individual patient. The company also offers a wide range of warranties on its products, which can provide peace of mind for both patients and healthcare providers.

Types of Implants Offered

Natrelle offers three types of breast implants: silicone gel, saline and cohesive gel (also known as “gummy bear”). Silicone gel implants are filled with liquid silicone and provide a natural feel and look. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and are typically less expensive than silicone gel implants. Cohesive gel implants are filled with a thicker, more solid form of silicone that provides more support than traditional silicone gel or saline implants. All Natrelle breast implant products come with a 10-year limited warranty from the date of purchase.

Warranty Information

The Natrelle warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship that occur during the 10-year period following the date of purchase. If any such defect is found during this time frame, Allergan will replace or repair the implant at no cost to the patient or healthcare provider. The warranty also covers some costs associated with removal or replacement surgery if it is deemed necessary due to a covered defect. It is important to note that the warranty does not cover any complications resulting from medical negligence or improper use of the product; these costs must be borne by either the patient or healthcare provider.

Common Questions about Breast Implant Warranties

Breast implants are a type of cosmetic surgery that is used to increase the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. Mentor and Natrelle are two companies that specialize in providing breast implants for women who wish to undergo this procedure. Both companies offer warranties on their products, which provide financial protection in the event that something goes wrong with the implant. This article will provide an overview of the warranties offered by Mentor and Natrelle, as well as answer some common questions about breast implant warranties.

What is Covered by the Warranty?

The warranty offered by both Mentor and Natrelle covers any defects or problems caused by workmanship or materials used in the manufacture of the implant. This includes any issues that arise within a certain period of time after the implant has been inserted. The length of coverage varies depending on the type of implant purchased, but usually lasts up to 10 years from the date of purchase. In addition, both companies offer a lifetime guarantee against rupture or deflation.

What is Not Covered by the Warranty?

The warranty does not cover any complications or issues related to medical treatment or surgical techniques used during implantation. This means that if something goes wrong due to poor surgical technique or improper medical care, then it will not be covered by either company’s warranty. Additionally, neither company will cover any damage caused by trauma or other external factors such as infection or scarring.

It is important to understand what is and isn’t covered under each company’s warranty before making a decision about which type of implant to purchase. By doing so, customers can ensure they are getting the best possible protection should something go wrong with their implant.

In conclusion, Mentor and Natrelle both offer warranties on their breast implants that provide financial protection in case something goes wrong with the product. The warranty covers any defects caused by workmanship or materials used in manufacturing, but does not cover any complications related to medical treatment or surgical techniques used during implantation. Customers should always read through each company’s warranty carefully before making a purchase decision in order to make sure they are getting adequate protection for their investment.

Conclusion

Breast implants are a popular and safe way to enhance the appearance of one’s body. Mentor and Natrelle are two of the leading brands in breast implant technology, providing a variety of implants that offer different shapes, sizes, textures, and options for both saline and silicone implants. Both companies provide warranties on their products that cover certain types of problems and damages, but not all issues are covered. It is important to be aware of what is and isn’t covered by the warranty so you can make an informed decision when choosing your breast implant provider.

Mentor

Mentor offers a limited warranty on their breast implants that covers rupture or deflation if it occurs within 10 years of the original procedure. This warranty also covers capsular contracture if it occurs within two years from the date of surgery, as well as asymmetry if it occurs within one year from the date of surgery.

Natrelle

Natrelle provides a comprehensive warranty program that covers a wide range of problems with their implants, including rupture or deflation, capsular contracture, asymmetry, wrinkling, rippling, pain, infection or inflammation. The warranty also includes additional benefits such as implant replacement if needed and reimbursement for certain costs associated with corrective surgery.

Common Questions about Breast Implant Warranties

When considering which brand to choose for your breast implant procedure it is important to understand what is included in the warranty they offer. Most warranties cover rupture or deflation as well as capsular contracture and asymmetry. However there are some issues that are not typically covered by the warranty such as pain, infection or inflammation. It is important to ask questions about what is included in the warranty before making your decision so you can be sure you are making an informed choice about your breast implants.

In conclusion, both Mentor and Natrelle provide quality products backed by comprehensive warranties. It is important to understand what each company offers so you can make an informed decision when selecting your breast implant provider. Knowing what is covered under each company’s warranty will help ensure you have peace of mind knowing that your investment in breast augmentation is protected should any issues arise down the line.

Laser Lipo: A Brighter Approach to Effortless Body Sculpting

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of body contouring, the spotlight is on Laser Lipo – a modern and minimally invasive alternative to traditional liposuction. Offering precise fat removal with minimal downtime, this innovative treatment has become increasingly popular among those seeking a more sculpted and refined physique. This comprehensive guide will introduce you to Laser Lipo, its many benefits, and what to expect throughout the process.

The Power of Laser Technology

Laser Lipo, also known as laser-assisted lipolysis, relies on advanced laser technology to break down and liquefy fat cells in targeted areas of the body. By melting the fat, it becomes easier to remove, resulting in a smoother and more natural-looking outcome. This less invasive approach also means reduced trauma to surrounding tissues, leading to faster recovery times and less post-operative discomfort.

The Benefits of Laser Lipo

Laser Lipo boasts a multitude of advantages over traditional liposuction methods. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

  • Minimally Invasive: Laser Lipo Omaha Liposuction requires only tiny incisions, which means less scarring and a reduced risk of infection compared to traditional liposuction.
  • Shorter Recovery Time: With Laser Lipo’s less invasive approach, patients can expect a quicker recovery period, often returning to work and normal activities within just a few days.
  • Precise Targeting: The advanced laser technology allows for greater precision in addressing specific problem areas, making it ideal for treating smaller or more delicate regions of the body.
  • Skin Tightening: In addition to removing unwanted fat, the laser energy stimulates collagen production, which can result in firmer and more youthful-looking skin.
  • Local Anesthesia: Unlike traditional liposuction, which often requires general anesthesia, Laser Lipo can typically be performed using local anesthesia, reducing the risks associated with anesthesia.

The Laser Lipo Procedure: A Step-by-Step Journey

To help you better understand the Laser Lipo process, let’s walk through the steps involved in the treatment:

  • Consultation: The journey begins with a thorough consultation with a qualified professional, who will discuss your goals, assess your candidacy for Laser Lipo, and devise a personalized treatment plan.
  • Preparation: Prior to the procedure, the treatment area will be marked and a local anesthetic administered to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
  • Treatment: The practitioner will create small incisions in the marked areas, through which a laser-guided cannula is inserted. The laser energy is then used to break down and liquefy the fat cells, which are subsequently suctioned out of the body.
  • Recovery: Post-procedure, you’ll likely be provided with a compression garment to help minimize swelling and support the treated areas. Some mild discomfort and bruising are normal, but should subside within a few days.

Although Laser Lipo offers impressive results, it’s important to maintain realistic expectations. This treatment is designed to remove localized fat deposits, not as a means of significant weight loss. Results can become visible within a week or two, with continued improvement as the body heals and swelling subsides.

The longevity of the results depends on your commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. While Laser Lipo permanently removes the treated fat cells, it’s still possible to gain weight in other areas if you don’t adhere to a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. To ensure lasting results, it’s crucial to take care of your body post-treatment.

Ideal Candidates for Laser Lipo

Laser Lipo is best suited for individuals who are close to their ideal body weight but struggle with stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. It’s important to note that this treatment is not a solution for obesity or a substitute for weight loss programs.

Additionally, ideal candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and possess good skin elasticity. A consultation with a qualified professional will help determine if Laser Lipo is the right choice for you.

Potential Risks and Complications

While Laser Lipo is generally considered safe and minimally invasive, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. Some of these may include:

  • Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection at the incision sites.
  • Scarring: While the incisions are small, there is still a chance of minor scarring.
  • Irregularities: In some cases, uneven fat removal can lead to contour irregularities.
  • Burns: The laser energy has the potential to cause burns if not administered properly.

To minimize these risks, it’s essential to choose an experienced and reputable practitioner for your Laser Lipo treatment.

In Conclusion

Laser Lipo represents a significant leap forward in the world of body contouring, offering a minimally invasive, precise, and effective alternative to traditional liposuction. By providing quicker recovery times and the added benefit of skin tightening, this innovative treatment has made achieving a more sculpted physique an attainable goal for many. If you’re considering Laser Lipo, be sure to consult with a qualified professional to determine if this cutting-edge procedure is the right fit for your unique needs and goals.

Using AI to Educate Liposuction Patients on their Body Areas

We trained a deep learning model to recognize potential liposuction areas in patient photos. The model has been incorporated in our new version of the Virtual Consultation to educate patients on which areas they could have liposuction done. Instead of having patients choosing problem areas from a simple list of checkboxes or by clicking on a stock image of a human model, we use Artificial Intelligence e to show them their actual body areas and mark those areas where they can might have liposuction.

The Covid-19 effect in Virtual Consults

With the global impact of Covid 19 and local curfew measures many medical specialists, including plastic and cosmetic surgeons have made increased use of virtual consultations. While practices were closed, plastic surgeons continued to stay in touch with patients via virtual visits.

The ASPS conducted a survey in 2020 among their members and found out that:

    • 64% had already seen an increase in virtual consultations even before the beginning of Covid-19
    • 68% started virtual consultations because of Covid-19

Using Deep Learning to detect Liposuction Areas

We trained a deep learning model to recognize potential liposuction areas in patient photos. The model has been incorporated in our new version of the Virtual Consultation to educate patients on which areas they could have liposuction done. Instead of having patients choosing problem areas from a simple list of checkboxes or by clicking on a stock image of a human model, we use AI to show them their actual body areas and mark those areas where they can might have lipo.

The motivation

Our motivation was to improve the current version of our online virtual consultation. The current BBL virtual consultation consists of a basic contact info form and an option to upload photos or use directly the smartphone camera to take fresh pictures. In one of the steps, we ask the patient to select from a list of body areas which ones are they interested in having treated.

We felt that we could go further and use the power of deep learning image recognition to give patients an added value that other virtual consultations had not done.

The Process

Our work is relies on the the libraries provided by Facebook’s object detection platform called “Detectron2”. We used the libraries and base object detection models provided in Detectron2 as the starting platform.

Image 1 : Detectron2 -a Facebook computer vision library used in Object / Segment detection

We trained our own Detectron2 Model using over 2500 before and after and virtual consultation pictures.

Gathering the Data

We used before and after pictures from our doctors, and pictures collected from virtual consultations. In total we had over 10k images to start.

To make our work easy we had to organize the images into 3 main views: Front, Side and Back. Since organizing manually over 10,000 images would take many days. We created a separate AI view detection model to organize images according to the position of the person in the picture . In this case we trained the view detection model with over 450 pictures. We took 150 fronts, 150 back and 150 side views. We then let view detection model organize the 10k images into 1 of the 3 view types.

Labeling the Data

After having all images organized into the 3 views – Front, Side & Back, we selected a few hundred to label the body areas.

In a sum the main training data for our body areas detection model was: A few hundred pictures + a json file for each picture containing the 2d-polygon coordinates for the drawn body areas.

Image 2: We used the annotation tool (Labelme) to draw polygons over each body area we want to later detect. The Back area is show in green, flanks in red, butt in yellow, outer thighs in cyan, inner thighs in blue and upper arms in magenta.

Labeling the data is an arduous manual process – it takes time, precision and patience to draw polygons using the mouse to mark the different body areas.

Training the Model

After having all the 2500 pictures + json pairs – we segmented them in 2 sets – a training set containing 2407 pairs and the remaining 93 pairs were used as a validation set during training.

Image 3: The training was done in Google Colab using a Tesla V100 GPU (16 GB Ram)

The total train time took about 1 hour – thanks to the GPU. The same training was done offline without a GPU – and it took over 10 hours. Using a powerful GPU is definitely a valuable asset to train models much faster.

Testing the Model

We tested the trained lipo areas detection model – with several before and after pictures and virtual consultation selfies.

Testing Before and Afters with a plain background

Testing Before and Afters with a plain background and a watermark (courtesy – Infiniskin.com)

Testing Virtual Consutation Selfies (smartphone pictures) with a complex backgrounds. The model proved to be effective also with regular selfie style pictures taken with a regular smartphone camera. Here are some of the results.

 

Liposuction vs. Tummy Tuck: Understanding the Difference

There is no universal one-size-fits-all surgery. Rather, there are different procedures that are uniquely designed to meet individuals’ varying needs and lifestyles. Tummy tucks and liposuction, for one, are often categorized together because both focus on the midsection. The reality, however, is that these procedures differ in process, results, price, and overall approach.

The midsection can be a stubborn area to lose weight. Sometimes we can’t achieve a flat, taut, and smooth abdomen with diet and exercise alone. Cosmetic surgeries like liposuction or a tummy tuck can help eliminate loose skin or flab around your stomach.

While both procedures aim to give your midsection a makeover, there are significant differences to consider when deciding which surgical procedure is right for you.

Use the information below to help determine which is right for your body, lifestyle, and goals.

lipo-vs-tummy-tuckIs Liposuction Similar to a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and lipo are two diverse surgical procedures. Like any other cosmetic surgery, the procedures should be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon for your health and safety.

Both surgeries can drastically improve the abdominal area by creating a toned, tight, and slimmer midsection. However, the two surgeries are vastly different regarding the actual procedure, recovery time, risks, and end results.

What is Liposuction?

If your primary problem area is stubborn excess fat around your belly, liposuction can improve your midsection’s overall appearance and shape.

Lipo is a minimally-invasive cosmetic surgery that permanently suctions stubborn fat away from the body. Liposuction is one of the most effective ways to remove stubborn belly fat deposits for good. With that being said, lipo is not intended to be a weight-loss alternative. However, it is an excellent treatment to eliminate localized fat deposits that are typically resistant to diet and exercise.

Liposuction can be used on other areas of the body than the midsection, including the love handles, arms, legs, chin, and butt. Lipo is ideal for people who generally have good skin and muscle tone, meaning there’s no excess skin in the midsection or loose abdominal muscles. Keep in mind liposuction can not eliminate extra skin, stretch marks, and problems arising from loose abdominal muscles. These issues are commonly associated with massive weight loss or pregnancy.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

If your primary concern is loose skin or stretched muscle tissue, a tummy tuck could be your best option.

A tummy tuck is a longer, more invasive surgery to remove excess or saggy skin from the stomach to create a flatter and tighter abdominal area. Excess skin could be prompted by pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. Tummy tuck surgery can also repair weakened or stretched abdominal muscles. If you have a significant amount of skin “flaps” around the belly, liposuction may not be the best route.

How is Liposuction Performed?

Lipo is a safe, efficient option for eliminating pockets of fat. There are various techniques, including SmartLipo, Vaser Lipo, Tumescent Liposuction, and others. Always discuss the different methods and options with your doctor. What works best for another patient might not be what’s right for you and vice versa.

Usually, lipo is performed under local anesthesia, meaning you will remain awake but pain-free and comfortable throughout the surgery. Once the area is numb, the surgeon will create 1 to 2 mm small incisions near the treatment site where a cannula will loosen fat cells underneath your skin. Then, a medical vacuum sucks out dislodged fat deposits.

lipo-surgery

Treatments usually last from one to two hours and are performed on an outpatient basis. Patients can walk and return home once the treatment is finished. After surgery, mild pain, swelling, and bruising are common. Pain medications and compression garments are recommended to keep you comfortable and speed up the healing process.

It may require several sessions to achieve your desired results.

How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

A tummy tuck is the most effective way to remove excess skin and repair stretched muscles. However, a tummy tuck is a much more invasive procedure than liposuction.

A tummy tuck is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be unconscious. After you’re sedated, the surgeon will make a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen. Surgeons make an effort to place the incision, so the scar is well-hidden by the bikini line. If needed, the surgeon will sew the muscles in your abdominal wall together before pulling the skin tight over your abdomen. Any excess skin is removed to create a flat and tight stomach. Some patients may require an additional incision to make an appropriate space for the belly button.

A tummy tuck can last anywhere from two to four hours, and some patients may remain in the hospital for the night. You will have sutures to close the incision sites. Fluid drains, compression garments and surgical dressings are applied to protect the treated area as it heals.

A tummy tuck is completed in one session and may be combined with other surgeries, including a breast lift, breast augmentation, liposuction, or a complete mommy makeover.

Ideal Candidates for Liposuction

You may be a good candidate for liposuction if you meet the following criteria:

  • You’re generally in good health
  • Are a non-smoker
  • You don’t have loose or saggy skin around the abdomen
  • You have great skin elasticity
  • You’re within a reasonable range of your goal weight
  • Are under the age of 40

Ideal Candidates for Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck may be a better option for you if you:

  • Are in generally good health and close to your goal body weight
  • Have a notable amount of loose or saggy abdominal skin
  • You don’t plan to become pregnant
  • You’re OK with a substantial recovery time
  • Are over the age of 45

Results of Liposuction vs. Tummy Tuck

Both cosmetic procedures help with body contouring and give you a flatter, smooth stomach. Future weight gain can impact the results of both surgeries.

Lipo permanently removes bulges of fat and fatty tissue from the targeted areas. Most liposuction patients are pleased with a flatter, more proportioned midsection. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle avoiding weight fluctuation will help preserve the results.

The final results of a tummy tuck are permanent. However, future weight gain or a subsequent pregnancy could re-stretch the abdominal wall. In addition, tummy tuck procedures will leave a visible surgical scar along the lower stomach. Scars should fade over time with proper care but may never fully diminish.

What’s the Recovery Process?

The downtime is also different for each procedure. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery period for each.

Liposuction

Recovery is relatively easy. Depending on how much fat is removed, you may have a slightly longer or shorter recovery process. Swelling, draining, and bruising are common. In most cases, lipo patients are recommended to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling.

Regular activity can be resumed fairly quickly. Most patients can return to work after 48 hours. You should avoid heavy exercise until you’ve gotten approval from your doctor.

Tummy tuck

A tummy tuck is deemed a more serious operation. The recovery process is longer and more in-depth compared to lipo. Your inclusion will need to be well taken care of, and you’ll be given a compression garment or “belly binder” to help with swelling. Some patients have surgical drains for up to two weeks post-op. Most patients can walk with assistance the day after surgery. Walking is important to prevent clotting. Prescription painkillers and antibiotics are often prescribed to ease any discomfort and reduce your risk of infection.

The initial recovery phase is six weeks. You can expect multiple follow-up appointments with your surgeon to check on how your incision is healing. You must be extremely cautious of your incision and avoid positions or movements that could tug or pull on your incision during this time. You can only resume exercise once you have your doctor’s approval.

recovery-surgery

 

What’s the Cost Difference?

With any plastic surgery, factors including where you live, the surgery time, complexity of the procedure, and doctor’s experience can alter the cost. In addition, both procedures are considered elective surgeries in most cases, meaning they will not be covered by insurance.

Lipo is a less invasive surgery and usually costs less than a tummy tuck. Liposuction usually costs between $2,000 and $8,000, whereas a tuck ranges between $6,000 and $10,000. Keep in mind these numbers are estimates.

 

The numbers above are rough estimates. Each patient is unique. The only way to get a clear understanding of the cost of your cosmetic surgery is to visit a surgeon for an initial consultation. You’ll be given a quote for your treatment at the end of your consultation.

Everything You Need to Know About Lipo 360

What makes Lipo 360 different from traditional liposuction is its comprehensive approach. Instead of simply removing fat from the mid and lower abdomen, Lipo 360 can target bulging and love handles around the entire waistline. Common problem areas, such as the flanks or lower back, can be addressed in one procedure.

Stubborn areas of fat hanging around your midsection can be a pain. Whether you have love handles, a bulging tummy, or crave a sleek hourglass shape, belly fat gets in the way of achieving your ideal physique.

Permanently remove fat around your tummy, sides, and back once and for all, and enjoy a sleek, slim shape with Lipo 360. Take a closer look into Lipo 360 to help you determine if it’s right for you.

What is Lipo 360?

Surely you’ve heard of traditional liposuction to get rid of pesky fat. Lipo 360 is a more inclusive cosmetic procedure that removes stubborn fat from the midsection to restore your natural silhouette – 360 degrees around.

Lipo 360 is one of the most sought-after modern fat removal procedures to achieve an hourglass shape. Lipo 360 removes subcutaneous fat (the fat you can visibly see just under the skin) using tumescent (under the skin) liposuction in 4 distinct areas to reshape and contour the body. Target areas cover the stomach, flanks, back, and waistline.

What Does Lipo 360 Include?

Lipo 360 looks at the entire midsection to create cohesive, natural-looking results. The doctor can remove stubborn fat from the abdomen, lower back, flanks (love handles), and waist.

Lipo 360 can help you achieve:

      • A flatter stomach
      • More apparent abdominal muscles
      • Reduced love handles
      • A more curvy, shapely figure
      • A smaller waistline

What Happens During a Lipo 360 Procedure?

Lipo 360 is a relatively straightforward procedure. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after your treatment.

Before Liposuction:

Before fat removal surgery, you’ll meet with your cosmetic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations about the procedure. During this initial consultation, be sure to let your doctor know which areas of the body you hope to target.

If you’re a good candidate for Lipo 360, you’ll be able to book the surgical procedure with your doctor.

During the Procedure:

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to remove and put back on the day of your surgery.

Before your liposuction procedure, your doctor will likely review any pre-op tests, go over aftercare instructions, and answer any last-minute questions you might have.

In most cases, Lipo 360 is performed under local anesthesia or sedation. Tumescent liposuction does not require general anesthesia, meaning you will remain awake but pain-free during the procedure. Lipo 360 starts with making small incisions in the skin. Next, the surgeon will inject tumescent fluid into the incisions, which is a combination of lidocaine, epinephrine, sodium bicarbonate, and saline.

The solution numbs the areas of the body where liposuction is being performed to keep you safe and comfortable throughout the surgery. Next, the plastic surgeon will use a cannula vacuum to suction unwanted fat deposits from specific areas in the midsection.

Finally, the doctor will proceed with body sculpting and removing fat deposits in the lower abdomen, upper abdomen, flanks, lower back, and love handles to accentuate your natural curves and create a natural-looking result.

If you opt to have a fat transfer like a Brazilian Butt Lift simultaneously with Lipo 360, the fat cells will be harvested, sterilized, and then reinjected into your body at this stage of the surgery.

After Liposuction:

You’ll likely wear a compression garment immediately following your liposuction surgery. This garment helps reduce pain, swelling, bruising and helps speed up the healing process.

Your doctor may monitor you for a short amount of time post-op before discharging you. Even though you will not be under general anesthesia, driving is not permitted after surgery. Instead, you should arrange a ride home with a trusted friend, family member, or car ride service following your procedure.

Your doctor will likely book a follow-up appointment a few days later to check your progress and healing.

What is the Recovery Time After Lipo 360?

There is minimal downtime after this type of liposuction, and you should be able to return to work in 3-4 days. Most patients experience some pain or discomfort for a few days. Swelling and bruising are the most common side effects of Lipo 360. Ample rest is recommended for at least 2 days following surgery. Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Avoid any significant exercise for at least three weeks, and don’t return to the gym until you are cleared for exercise by your surgeon.

The small incisions will heal and fade within a few days. You’ll notice immediate changes in your body following Lipo 360. The final results often take 2-3 months.

Am I a Good Candidate for Lipo 360?

Healthy individuals who are within their ideal body weight but want to remove stubborn excess fat are ideal candidates for 360-degree liposuction. Lipo 360 is exceptional if you’re seeking an hourglass shape. However, if you have a large amount of visceral fat (that’s the fat deep inside your body surrounding your internal organs), Lipo 360 may not be the best procedure for you. Additionally, if you recently lost weight and have an abundance of excess skin, liposuction is generally not used as a skin tightening procedure. In this case, a tummy tuck or a mommy makeover could be a better option to remove loose skin permanently.

Liposuction is not a weight loss surgery. Instead, the procedure removes excess fat from troublesome areas that don’t respond well to exercise to contour and redefine your body shape.

Can I do Lipo 360 and BBL at the Same Time?

Absolutely! Lipo 360 is an excellent way to collect excess fat cells that can later be transferred into other body areas. Typically fat is removed from the midsection in Lipo 360. The extracted fat is purified and prepared for transfer. During a BBL, the surgeon will inject your own fat into the buttocks to increase volume and improve the overall shape of your bottom.

Additionally, you can recycle fat with a Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation or a gluteus augmentation.

The Benefits of Lipo 360

Deciding which type of liposuction is right for you can be a challenge. Keep in mind traditional lipo targets one specific area where Lipo 360 offers a more inclusive result. Circumferential liposuction is a more comprehensive procedure that considers your full profile and silhouette of the midsection. This procedure isn’t exclusively to remove fat around the back, belly, and love handles; it’s to help sculpt and shape the body to give you your desired figure.

How Much Does A 360 Liposculpture Cost?

Like any other cosmetic surgery, the cost can vary for each patient. Body contouring surgery is especially personal. Factors including where you live, how much fat you want to remove, and surgeon expertise can fluctuate the cost. For example, lipo 360 can be anywhere from $1,400 to $9,200.

To have an accurate understanding of the cost of your procedure, you’ll first have to book an initial consultation with your surgeon. In-person or virtual consultations are the first step to take to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Are there any risks associated with 360 Liposuction?

There are risks associated with any cosmetic surgery. While uncommon, severe side effects include infections, bleeding, skin ulcerations, and nerve injuries.

  1. Does having a prior C-Section matter?

It is not a contraindication for having this type of liposuction. In most cases, having a prior C-section will not affect the surgery. Lipo 360 can sometimes even make the scar smoother and remove fat deposits that can accumulate above the scar.

  1. What is the difference between Lipo 360 and a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck physically removes fat and skin to tighten and smooth the stomach, whereas Lipo 360 only removes fat around your midsection. Additionally, a tummy tuck is a much more invasive surgery and will require ample downtime.

  1. How many inches can I lose with Lipo 360?

Lipo 360 will generally remove a couple of inches from your waist. A general rule of thumb is that you lose an inch for every five pounds of fat lost. Keep in mind your results may vary.

  1. When will I be completely healed?

You can return to regular activity relatively quickly after surgery. However, a long-term recovery typically lasts 3 months.

If you’re still unsure if plastic surgery is right for you, consider speaking with a board-certified plastic surgeon to learn more. 360-degree-lipo can be a life-changing procedure for many patients looking to achieve their ideal body shape.

Liposuction to Liposculture

Liposculpture is one of the latest plastic surgery trends. As its name suggests, liposculpture is a variation on liposuction. But unlike liposuction, which removes fat from specific areas of the body, liposculpture is not just about removing fat. It also reshapes the body by removing fat and then adding it to the right places to improve the body’s overall contour.

Liposuction’s popularity has peaked due to its widely growing demand for correcting fat accumulations and its ability to remodel the body. It has become such a standard tool in the anesthetic world that people are willing to pay massive amounts just to fit within the redefined “cultural beauty standards.”

Photo courtesy of – Orlando Liposuction by Bassin

The issue

Liposuction is not a crime because it has been used as a tool to treat prevalent body fats. Still, nowadays, as unrealistic beauty standards such as the “Kardashian effect” and “fuller lips” on the rise, it is being utilized as a procedure to change the natural body contour of a person.

While most of the advertisements we see are not real on social media, mainly because they are photoshopped, the youth is now choosing Liposuction. This is because they see it as the only preferable way of achieving a slimmer figure like Cinderella, or because they don’t want to gain post-pregnancy weight to resemble Gigi Hadid.

Irreversible damage caused by Liposuction

Scarring, Hyperpigmentation, discoloration, and blood vessels’ damage are significant consequences that people fail to realize in the pursuance of these so-called “beauty norms.” The average cost of a Liposuction is $3,200. This procedure has become popular amongst individuals showcases the insane amounts of cash that individuals are ready to burn to resemble their role models.

What can we do?

The idea of undergoing this procedure is not wrong, but rather how it is used to achieve fake beauty standards is. Awareness through campaigns and influencers can help people feel less insecure when it comes to their appearance.

A positive approach towards our body can be achieved only when our opinion of things change. No doubt, Liposuction has helped many, but when the cure becomes an addiction to pursue unrealistic goals, that is where the problem worsens.

In a nutshell, you cannot deny the advantages of this treatment. However, you must note that in this fierce race to look one’s best, peoples’ mental health has taken a huge toll as well. This is why awareness is the only option to bring hope amongst the youth and adults alike. Excessive use of anything, even anesthetic procedures, paves the way for them to become dependent on them.

Why Liposuction has become a fashion Nowadays?| Complete Analysis

As a human being, we naturally desire to develop ourselves. We consider or confuse this development by bringing change in our looks, personality, mentality, and profession. Nature demands variance and we adopt it by doing particular experiments. These experiments may be about various aspects of our lives. We may explore scenarios about or personality or professions. While it comes to our looks and beauty nowadays, we prefer going for surgeries.

Does Liposuction exist in our surroundings?

You must be wondering what are these surgeries about? Yes, the answer is also a counter-question indeed. Have you ever noticed someone with sexier lips than lips naturally are? Bigger Butts than nature made them. A pretty tight face, no matters what the age of a person is or look enhancing sexy-looking eyebrows than they were before.

How did all these miracles happen? Have you ever reflected? No Worries, as we have got the answer, as these miraculous changes are brought through a procedure known as Liposuction. It is basically a cosmetic surgery that most people undergo to enhance their physical appearance. It includes various subdomains like Eyebrow lifting, Lip Augmentation, Face Augmentation, Butt Augmentation, or BBL Surgery and similar categories.

What Influence does it Create?

All these surgeries bring a rapid and noticeable change in your looks. Meanwhile, the result may be positive or negative. You may look prettier, sexier, and attractive with lesser age. While consequences are also damaging your natural beauty and gaining an unwanted, unadoptable look. So How it actually works, without any further delay let’s get straight into it.

What Liposuction Actually Is?

Liposuction is basically a fat removal process. The excess amount of fat gathered in individual thighs, buttocks, hips, arms, abdomen, neck, or back are ridiculous sometimes. Actually destructing the aura of one’s personality. When regular exercise or diet is not working to reduce these unwanted fatty companions Liposuction is preferred.

What do People think About Liposuction?

While it’s also in people’s opinion that Liposuction is not a remedy to control or remove overweight. Because medical experts also suggest that better and healthier results can be obtained by adopting healthier routines, diet, and following a proper sleep time. Similarly, some have the opinion of reducing it with proper gym and exercise. So opinions various person to person.

How the procedure of Liposuction is carried on?

Before undertaking the procedure of liposuction one must have the background knowledge of ones;

  • Immune system
  • Complete medical history
  • His /Her body nature to respond after surgery.

Depending upon the above-mentioned facts if someone is physically fit enough that he can easily go for surgery. One can go for it. If someone has no background disease attached, he may undergo liposuction, if someone has the patience to face the consequences of before and after surgery, one must go for it.

What are the expectations attached to Liposuction?

First of all, be dying sure after carrying out proper research that you want to go for it or not. Once you decided you may encounter several implications consequently.

Firstly you must have knowledge about the place where you are undergoing your Liposuction. Is it authentic? Is it well-reputed? Is it known for producing good results? Etc.

Secondly, you must have the proper information about the doctor, who is carrying out your liposuction. Is he a professional, renowned person? Etc.

Thirdly it’s a surgical process, so it is done with performing anesthesia. As a result, you won’t feel any pain at the time of surgery. But once the effect of anesthesia is gone it’s really painful.

Fourthly you must have an idea that it’s a surgical process so you may have to stay at the hospital or not. If yes, follow what the doctor instructs. If no, never forget to bring someone to drive and bring you home.

Fifthly, after surgery, you must expect that you may face severe pains, swelling, fluid leakage from wounds, bruising or similar kind of problems.

How to Minimize those pains?

To minimize those pains, you must have an idea that these pains are of a couple of categories.

  • The Pains during the procedure of liposuction.
  • The pains after the process of liposuction.

So to deal both you have to operate with two different mindsets. In the case of the earlier one, you must have some discussion with your surgeon before surgery. This discussion can be about your concerns about pain. The type of anesthesia you are comfortable with whether local or general. You may also talk about the medication that you must use before getting the procedure done.

While in case of a later one, you have to be careful about your regular medication including pain pills. You must have to wear the only garment that your doctor recommends. You have to take proper bed rest and being mentally strong. You must be careful about your diet that includes avoiding salt and drinking doctor’s recommended juices only.

Overall this procedure is quite painful and time taking, so you must be outstandingly sure about your decision.

Why Fat Transfer is Becoming the Attend Body Sculpting Technique

Fat is a major contributor when it comes to shaping the body especially for women who do not have a lot of muscles. Transferring fat from one part of the body to the other has turned out to be a popular procedure for achieving the desirable curves. This technique is commonly known as fat transfer or fat grafting. When such a procedure is carried out, it gives a boost to one’s physical appearance by contouring the body as desired. The following are reasons why fat transfer is becoming the most practiced body sculpting technique:

Benefits Twice
As opposed to other body-enhancing procedures, fat transfer brings a double benefit to the one who undergoes it. The reason for this conclusion is because it involves the transfer of fat from one body part to the other. This automatically means that to one part a slimming effect while to the other a filling effect. For instance, if fat is sucked from the waist, it slims. If the same fat is injected into the breasts or buttock, the customer achieves the desired fullness and figure. This means that the customer does not need to go through separate operations to get such results; fat transfer is all they need to get to shape.
Minimal Invasion
Every surgical and non-surgical procedures carried out in the body comes with its level of invasion. Fat transfer is believed to be a non-surgical procedure that achieves the desired results with minimal invasion. This is because the incisions used to harvest and inject the fat are relatively smaller in diameter. The fat is transferred by means of injections into the skin –sized cannulas. Recovery for most patients takes only a few days as opposed to some other procedures. This also means that other complications are less likely to occur since not much activity happens on the skin. It is usually advisable for one to indulge the services of a specialist.

Lasting Results
Fat transfer gives long lasting results since it involves the removal of fat cells from one part of the body. This means that the region from where the fat is extracted remains slim for a long while before the cells can reform for more fat to be stored. The additional fat cells transferred to the other body part then result in more fat storage in that part. This, therefore, eliminates the need for periodic injections which are usually done in other techniques. Consequently, the customer gets enough time to heal completely and have their skin rejuvenate.

Less Visible Scars
Unlike most body-contouring procedures, fat transfer does not result in conspicuously visible scarring. The small incisions used in the process to remove fat do not tamper much with the skin. After the healing process, a third party may not easily tell if the procedure was done unless they are informed of the same. This means once it is done, one does not need to go through any corrective procedures. Whatever piercings that are done on the skin heal and are covered up with time.

Source: https://harcourthealth.com/5-reasons-fat-transfer-is-becoming-the-go-to-body-sculpting-technique/