Liposuction and tummy tuck surgery often go hand-in-hand. One primarily removes fat (lipo) and the other mostly removes excess skin (tummy tuck). Therefore, performed together or in succession can lead to optimized results. Many patients who are good candidates for one of the procedures will often qualify for the other. However, the two procedures are exceptionally different and patients do need to understand what each surgery entails to help decide which is the right one for them.
Pain is an important factor when considering any surgery. Both liposuction and tummy tucks are usually performed under general anesthesia which means that patients do not feel anything during the procedure or immediately after due to long-lasting effects. However, in the days and weeks that follow, patients may experience pain associated with their recovery.
Let’s look at a commonly asked question, “Which is more painful: liposuction or tummy tuck?”
Procedure Overview
Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that removes fat via suction. Using a small cannula that requires incisions only a few centimeters wide, Dr. Sessa can remove fat in targeted areas for a more toned appearance and refined body contour. Most of the time, liposuction causes limited pain following the procedure. Compression garments help with swelling and most patients do not require prescription pain medications for more than a few days. While mild discomfort may persist longer, most patients do find it overly painful or that it hinders their daily activities.
A tummy tuck uses a hip-to-hip incision to remove excess skin on the abdomen. This procedure involves a much longer and larger surgery. Thus, patients may feel more pain after a tummy tuck than liposuction. Patients may need prescription pain medication for a week or more depending on individual needs and the specifics of the surgery. Dr. Sessa utilizes techniques and medications during surgery that help limit post-operative pain in the immediate hours after surgery. Usually, the first week involves the most post-operative pain or discomfort and it slowly improves over time.
Pain Management Following Liposuction & Tummy Tuck
Other than prescription pain medications that patients should use for a limited time and discontinue as soon as they are able, there are other pain management techniques that they can use to help keep themselves comfortable during recovery.
- Compression Garments: Primarily used after liposuction or a combined liposuction and tummy tuck, these garments promote good results but also help control swelling which can be painful or uncomfortable. Compression garments are often worn for months after the procedure.
- OTC Pain Medications: Once prescription pain medications are discontinued, patients can usually use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage their pain. Dr. Sessa may prefer one over the other, so consult him before regularly using a particular over-the-counter pain reliever because some may have side effects that increase the risk of certain complications.
- Limit Movement: Other than exercise restrictions which are typical after any major surgery, tummy tuck patients should stay hunched over to reduce stress on their incisions. This may also include not reaching above their head and adjusting their sleeping positions. Limiting movement can help with acute pain, but also with long term pain because it reduces the chance of the incision coming open or stress which can be painful.
Conclusion
Dr. Alberico Sessa at Sarasota Surgical Arts is a renowned and experienced cosmetic surgeon who specializes in body contouring. He has helped hundreds of patients recover their ideal bodies. Dr. Sessa’s approach centers the patient to ensure they are comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. To schedule a consultation, call us at 941-923-1736. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, and Price Simulator.
