Childbirth, aging, minimal exercise, overeating and many other life factors may contribute to an undesirable waistline.  While a healthy diet and a consistent exercise regimen can do wonders for your figure and overall health, excess skin and fat is still a problem area for many. 

There are several surgical and non-surgical options to remedy the unwanted bulge in your stomach area.  It is just a matter of finding the procedure that is right for you.

Tummy Tucks

A tummy tuck is an excellent option for those struggling with excess skin or fat in the abdominal area.  A plastic surgeon performs a tummy tuck by making an incision on the lower abdomen to tighten skin and abdominal muscles, remove excess fatty tissue, and eliminate unwanted skin. 

If your problem area is fairly minor, a mini (or modified) tummy tuck may be best for you.  A mini tummy tuck involves less tightening and fat removal from the abdomen, through a significantly small and centralized incision. 

The typical recovery period for a tummy is two weeks.  However, you may not be able to return to everyday activities like exercise or athletics until three to four weeks following your procedure. 

Liposuction

Liposuction may be helpful for people with a relentless pocket of stomach fat or troublesome love handles.   Spot liposuction for the abdominal area is typically performed by making a small incision in the naval area from which the fat is suctioned. 

When liposuction is used to alleviate love handles, incisions are made at the edges of the abdomen, and an ultrasound may be used to effectively treat this high tissue density area. 

If excess skin remains after liposuction, you may require a tummy tuck to achieve your desired results. 

Laser Treatment

For those seeking a less invasive option to rid excess tummy fat, skin-tightening laser therapy may be a good option.  Laser treatment is conducted by using an infrared light to heat the layer below the skin and cause the collagen to contract.  New collagen growth caused by the treatment will increase your skin’s firmness.

Laser treatment is an effective option for those with moderate excess skin and fat.  Since laser therapy is only able to treat the skin, the results will not be as dramatic as with liposuction or a tummy tuck. 

Whatever you decide is an appropriate treatment is for you, it is important to speak with an experienced board certified plastic surgeon who can address any questions you may have regarding cosmetic weight loss treatment and other options.  Plastic surgery procedures to achieve a smaller waistline should not be used in replacement of a healthy lifestyle.