Stubborn belly fat is such a struggle to get rid of. No matter how many food alterations you make or workouts you do, sometimes it just doesn’t leave. While diet and exercise seem like the best solutions, they are not enough. However, where a healthy lifestyle doesn’t work, surgical belly fat removal does. It’s safe, effective and minimally invasive, great for those who want more defined results. If you’re wondering how to surgically remove belly fat, keep reading. In this blog, we will discuss belly fat medical treatments in detail.
When Might Surgical Belly Fat Removal Be Helpful?
Belly fat can be really hard to lose. It tends to be more resistant due to various factors like genetics, age, lifestyle, previous pregnancies or hormonal imbalances. In fact, it can be so stubborn that even a disciplined fitness routine may not break down. In such a case, undergoing a surgery as a belly fat medical treatment is a very good idea.
The common surgical methods for belly fat are usually very effective. They make sense for many reasons. You may be close to your ideal weight, but your belly fat might be too stubborn to go away. Diet and exercise might not have worked for you. Surgery targets the exact areas you want to shape. It also offers long-lasting results. However, for the most suitable decision, you need to consult a surgeon.
Top Surgical Methods for Belly Fat Removal
Below are the most popular and helpful surgical ways to remove belly fat you must know of:
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Liposuction
This surgical stomach fat removal technique is the most tried-and-tested one. It involves suctioning out of the body fat through small incisions using a cannula. It is certainly the most common surgical belly fat removal technique. Liposuction is ideal for people with firm skin, who are near their goal weight and for localized fat removal. It’s a wonderful method because it’s minimally invasive, the recovery period is just 1–2 weeks and gives permanent results if weight is maintained.
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Tummy Tuck
Commonly used as abdominoplasty, this method aims at removing excess fat and loosing skin and tightening it. It involves surgical removal of fat and tightening of abdominal muscles for a flatter stomach. This method is perfect for treating loose or sagging skin and separated abdominal muscles and for postpartum body reshaping. It offers a complete midsection transformation along with long-term results. Plus, it improves posture and core strength.
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Mini Tummy Tuck
Compared to a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck requires little incision. This method focuses only on the belly area below the navel. It is ideal for mild fat and excess skin and if there’s no major muscle separation. The benefits are that it’s a quick procedure with a shorter recovery time and minimal scarring.
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Laser-Assisted Lipolysis
Called SmartLipo, this advanced technique makes use of laser energy to melt the fat before it is taken away from the body. This procedure can be said to tighten the skin slightly. It’s well suited for small to medium fat deposits and for those seeking a less invasive option. The patients recover fast, enjoy skin-tightening benefits and experience minimal bruising.
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VASER Liposuction
This method utilizes ultrasound waves to take apart the fat cells before removing them. Therefore, this method gives a more precise body sculpting, especially around the abs. If you need that perfect contouring or have that dense or fat or stubborn pockets, this method is for you. It gives less trauma to surrounding tissues while offering high-definition body sculpting.
The Expectations After Surgical Belly Fat Removal
After undergoing the best surgical way to remove belly fat, it’s important to focus on the recovery process to ensure better results. Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. For example, minimally invasive surgical methods for belly fat such as liposuction usually require just a few days of rest. However more extensive surgeries may need several weeks of limited activity. Although you can resume light activities within a few days, full recovery takes more time.
In terms of scarring, most surgical methods for belly fat removal involve small incisions that typically leave minimal scars. Fortunately, these incisions are often placed in natural body folds such as the lower abdomen. That makes them less noticeable as they heal.
When it comes to results, you can’t expect immediate visible changes. Swelling and bruising are common and usually subside over several weeks. The final results tend to become apparent over a few months, depending on how quickly your body adjusts and heals.
Lastly, although the results can last for a long period, maintaining your weight is essential to keep them permanent. Therefore, having a balanced diet exercising regularly will help you sustain your new shape over time.
What is the best surgical way to remove belly fat for you depends on your body type, fat distribution, skin condition and overall health. While exploring options, always consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to get the best treatment.