Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Which Is Right for You?

If you want a flatter, more sculpted midsection, you may be considering a tummy tuck or liposuction. While both procedures reshape your body, they serve different purposes. A tummy tuck removes loose abdominal skin and tightens ab muscles, while liposuction eliminates stubborn fat deposits.

As a Royal College-certified plastic surgeon, I’ve helped many patients decide which option best suits their needs. In this post, I’ll break down the differences between the 2 procedures, including recovery, scarring, and costs, to help you make an informed choice.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: What’s the Difference?

Each procedure offers unique benefits depending on your concerns and aesthetic goals.

What a Tummy Tuck Does

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, achieves the following:

• Removes excess skin from the abdomen
• Repairs weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
• Creates a firmer, flatter midsection by tightening the skin
• Repositions the belly button for a natural look

This procedure is ideal if you have loose skin from pregnancy or weight loss. However, a tummy tuck is not a dedicated fat removal procedure—if you’re also concerned about excess fat, you can add liposuction to your tummy tuck for enhanced results.

What Liposuction Does

Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It is best for patients with good skin elasticity who want to contour specific areas.

Liposuction can reduce fat in many areas of the body, including:

Unlike a tummy tuck, liposuction does not tighten loose skin or repair muscles. A tummy tuck may be the better option if you have significant skin laxity.

What About Recovery & Healing?

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. Here’s what to expect for each.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

A tummy tuck is a more involved procedure, so recovery takes longer.

• Expect 2 to 3 weeks of downtime with limited activity.
• You will need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about 6 weeks.

Since a tummy tuck tightens muscles, discomfort is more significant than after liposuction. However, most patients find the long-term results well worth the recovery period.

Read our top tummy tuck recovery tips.

Liposuction Recovery

Liposuction has a quicker and easier recovery than tummy tuck surgery:

• Most patients return to work within a few days.
• Swelling and bruising last 1 to 2 weeks.
• Compression garments help contour the body and reduce swelling.

You may have mild soreness, similar to an intense workout, but pain is minimal compared to a tummy tuck.

Learn more about liposuction recovery time.

Will I Have Scarring?

Scarring is an important consideration for any surgical procedure. Here’s what you need to know.

Tummy Tuck Scars

A tummy tuck requires a long incision, typically placed low on the abdomen for discretion.

• The scar runs from hip to hip, but it fades over time.
• The skin around the belly button is repositioned, which may leave a small scar around your navel.
• Using silicone treatments and following proper scar care can help minimize visibility.

I’ll discuss incision placement and healing strategies during your consultation.

Liposuction Scars

Liposuction requires only small incisions, typically about 2 to 5 millimetres.

• Incisions are strategically placed in natural creases or hidden areas.
• Scarring is minimal and fades significantly over time.

Because these incisions are so small, some surgeons may leave them open rather than suturing them. While the type of wound closure will marginally affect the appearance and size of liposuction scars, they remain very discreet.

Tummy Tuck & Liposuction Cost in Toronto

Cost is often a key factor in choosing between these procedures. Below is a breakdown of pricing and what is included.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?

The cost of a tummy tuck at our Toronto practice starts at $15,250. This price includes:

• Surgeon’s fee (including follow-ups for up to 1 year)
• Anesthesia and facility fees
• Overnight stay, if required
• Any necessary implants or medical devices

Following an in-person consultation, you will receive a written quote that is valid for 6 months.

How Much Does Liposuction Cost?

The cost of liposuction at our practice starts at $6,562.50 per area.

• If treating multiple areas, the cost increases accordingly.
• Pricing includes surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and facility fees, as with a tummy tuck.

While liposuction is more affordable than a tummy tuck, it is essential to choose the procedure that best aligns with your goals rather than basing the decision on cost alone.

Can You Combine a Tummy Tuck & Liposuction?

Many patients find combining a tummy tuck with liposuction provides the most comprehensive results.

Why Combine the Two?

• Liposuction removes fat, while a tummy tuck tightens skin and muscles.
• Performing both together enhances body contouring for a more sculpted look.
• It reduces overall downtime and costs compared to having separate procedures.

I have performed many combination procedures. The following before and after case shows the benefits of this approach.

Which Procedure Is Right for You?

Choosing between a tummy tuck and liposuction depends on your specific needs.

• Choose a tummy tuck if you have loose skin, muscle separation, or need significant contouring.
• Choose liposuction if you have stubborn fat deposits but good skin elasticity.
• Combining procedures may be ideal if you need fat removal and skin tightening.

A consultation is the best way to determine the right approach for your body and goals.

Get the Midsection You Want

If you’re considering a tummy tuck or liposuction, I can help you choose the best option for your body. I invite you to call Ford Plastic Surgery today at (416) 925-7337 or request a consultation online.