What Makes 3D Abdominoplasty Different from a Traditional Tummy Tuck?

With the increasing popularity of cosmetic surgery, the majority of people today know at least something about what a tummy tuck — or abdominoplasty — is designed to do, which is to transform the midsection and create a smoother, flatter body shape. Many patients considering tummy tuck surgery often ask whether a tummy tuck includes the entire waistline or just the front of the abdomen and, importantly, what procedure may be available to help them achieve a more well-rounded transformation. The answer to the first part of the question is that, yes, a traditional tummy tuck primarily focuses on the lower, forward-facing abdomen. 

3D abdominoplasty, on the other hand, addresses loose skin and stubborn fat around the front, sides, and flanks to give patients a snatched new look they can show off from almost any angle. At Sawan Surgical Aesthetics, board-certified plastic surgeon and Oklahoma City body contouring specialist Dr. Kamal Sawan performs his specialized 3D tummy tuck technique to help men and women achieve their goals and feel more confident in their figures. Keep reading for more information on the difference between 3D tummy tuck vs. traditional abdominoplasty. 

What does a 3D tummy tuck include?  

While it's not necessarily the same as a 360 lift, a 3D tummy tuck does address a much broader area circumferentially compared to a "regular" tummy tuck. Areas that can be smoothed, slimmed, and recontoured with a 3D tummy tuck include the:  

• Lower abdomen 
• Beltline 
• Flanks/lower back 
• Muffin top 

When choosing between a regular tummy tuck vs. a 3D tummy tuck, patients should consider whether their concerns are primarily contained within the front of their midsection or not. During your initial consultation for tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Sawan will closely assess the severity and distribution of concerns like stretched skin, separated musculature, and resistant fat cells to determine which kind of tummy tuck may be most appropriate and effective for you. 

Does a tummy tuck include lipo? 

The primary purpose of tummy tuck surgery is to remove loose, excess skin from the lower abdomen, though there are many other enhancements that can — and often are — made during a tummy tuck. Liposuction, for instance, is commonly performed as part of either a traditional or 3D tummy tuck to address stubborn pockets of diet- and exercise-resistant fat to further slim and smooth the final shape in Oklahoma City. Additionally, Dr. Sawan may include diastasis recti repair as part of a 3D or regular tummy tuck in patients who have experienced weakened or separated abs after pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or other life changes. 

If you have questions about what other treatments or procedures can be combined with your tummy tuck body contouring surgery, don't hesitate to ask Dr. Sawan so he can customize a surgical plan that can best help you achieve your goals. 

Take on body contouring from all sides with a 3D tummy tuck near Oklahoma City, OK  

If you're going to invest in transforming your figure to boost your confidence and change your life, don't take a one-dimensional approach. Instead, consider the benefits of more comprehensive body contouring procedures like 3D abdominoplasty, performed by Oklahoma City board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kamal Sawan. To schedule your private consultation with Dr. Sawan as a first step toward a new look you can love, contact our friendly team today.