Extended Tummy vs. 360 Belt Lipectomy vs. Tuck vs. Lower Body Lift: Which is Right For You?

At Azurite Medical and Wellness, we understand that choosing the right body contouring procedure can be overwhelming. With options ranging from extended tummy tucks to comprehensive lower body lifts, it's crucial to understand the differences and benefits of each. In this article, we'll explore our suite of transformative surgeries, including the extended tummy tuck with liposuction, the 360-belt lipectomy, and the lower body lift. We'll break down the procedures, discuss pricing, and help you determine which option might be best suited for your unique needs and goals. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of these life-changing procedures and be better equipped to make an informed decision.

Difference between tummy tuck and belt lipectomy

Pricing Breakdown

  • Includes:

    • Extended Tummy Tuck

    • Upper and lower sides of waist liposuction

    • Mons Lift (optional lipo additional 1000 AUD)

    • Accommodation for you and a companion at the Chatrium Residence Sathorn - One Bedroom Deluxe Suite.

    • Airport and clinic transfers

    • After care with nurses

  • Includes

    • Extended tummy tuck

    • Liposuction to upper and lower sides of waist

    • Lower Back

    • Buttocks

    • Accommodation for you and a companion at the Chatrium Residence Sathorn - One Bedroom Deluxe Suite.

    • Airport and clinic transfers

    • After care with nurses

  • Includes:

    • Extended tummy tuck

    • Liposuction to upper and lower sides of waist

    • Lower Back

    • Mons Lift (optional lipo an additional 1000 AUD)

    • Buttocks

    • Extended Thigh lift up to groin

    • Accommodation for you and a companion at the Chatrium Residence Sathorn - One Bedroom Deluxe Suite.

    • Airport and clinic transfers

    • After care with nurses

Extended Tummy Tuck vs. 360 Belt Lipectomy: What's the Difference?

Scope and Coverage

An extended tummy tuck and a 360 belt lipectomy are both body contouring procedures, but they differ significantly in their scope. An extended tummy tuck primarily focuses on the abdominal area, removing excess skin and fat while also tightening the underlying muscles. It extends slightly to the flanks, offering a more comprehensive solution than a standard tummy tuck.

In contrast, a 360 belt lipectomy, also known as a lower body lift, is a more extensive procedure. It addresses not only the abdomen but also the hips, buttocks, and lower back, creating a circumferential improvement around the entire midsection. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who have undergone significant weight loss and are left with excess skin in multiple areas.

Procedure Complexity

The extended tummy tuck is generally less complex than a 360 belt lipectomy. At Azurite Medical & Wellness, an extended tummy tuck includes deep muscle repair, upper and lower waist liposuction, and a mons lift. The procedure typically requires a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen and around the navel.

A 360 belt lipectomy, on the other hand, involves a 360-degree incision around the waist. This allows the surgeon to remove excess skin and fat from the entire midsection, including the back and buttocks. The procedure often combines elements of a tummy tuck, thigh lift, and buttock lift, making it more comprehensive but also more invasive.

Recovery and Results

Due to its more extensive nature, a 360 belt lipectomy generally requires a longer recovery period compared to an extended tummy tuck. Patients undergoing a belt lipectomy at Azurite Medical Wellness can expect a recovery period of about 14 days, during which they receive expert aftercare.

While both procedures can dramatically improve body contour, a 360 belt lipectomy offers more comprehensive results, addressing multiple problem areas in a single surgery. However, the extended tummy tuck can still provide significant improvement for those primarily concerned with abdominal contouring.

What Does an Extended Tummy Tuck Do?

An extended tummy tuck, also known as an extended abdominoplasty, is a comprehensive body contouring procedure that goes beyond a standard tummy tuck. This surgical intervention is designed to address excess skin and fat not only in the abdominal area but also around the flanks and lower back.

extended tummy tuck before and after

Comprehensive Contouring

The extended tummy tuck procedure involves a longer incision that extends from the sides of the abdomen to the lower back. This allows for more extensive removal of excess skin and fat, resulting in a more dramatic transformation. According to Azurite Medical and Wellness, the procedure can help patients achieve a more contoured and youthful abdomen, improving their overall body confidence and self-esteem.

Additional Benefits

In addition to removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen, an extended tummy tuck typically includes:

  • A Mons Lift to address sagging in the pubic area

  • Liposuction of the upper and lower sides of the waist for a more streamlined waistline

This extended approach provides a more comprehensive contouring of the midsection compared to a traditional tummy tuck, as noted by Azurite.

Ideal Candidates

The procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies, as it can address loose or sagging skin that cannot be addressed through diet and exercise alone. Ideal candidates are those who have achieved their target weight but still have excess skin and fat in the abdominal and flank areas.

By targeting a larger area and providing more extensive contouring, an extended tummy tuck can offer transformative results for those seeking a more comprehensive solution to abdominal and flank concerns.

What is a 360 Belt Lipectomy?

Comprehensive Body Contouring

A 360 belt lipectomy is an advanced body contouring procedure that goes beyond a standard tummy tuck. This extensive surgery addresses excess skin and fat not only in the abdominal area but also extends to the flanks and lower back, providing a more complete body transformation. According to Azurite Medical and Wellness, this procedure is also known as a circular abdominoplasty or 360° abdominoplasty.

Surgical Procedure

During a belt lipectomy, surgeons make incisions around the outer thighs, buttocks, and lower waistline to remove excess skin and fat. The abdominal muscles are tightened, and the body is contoured to achieve a smoother silhouette. Liposuction techniques may also be employed for additional sculpting and refinement.

Ideal Candidates

This procedure is particularly suitable for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, either through dieting or weight loss surgery. The Johns Hopkins Medicine website notes that candidates may have extra folds of skin tissue causing discomfort, hygiene issues, or problems with mobility and daily activities.

Cost and Recovery

The cost of a 360 belt lipectomy in Bangkok starts at approximately 12,300 AUD, which typically includes surgeon and anesthetist fees, hospital stay, accommodations, and various support services. As reported by Azurite Medical and Wellness, this comprehensive package ensures patients receive full care throughout their surgical journey.

Recovery from a belt lipectomy involves a hospital stay followed by a period of rest and limited activity. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about six weeks post-surgery to allow for proper healing and optimal results.

What is the cost of a belt lipectomy?

Understanding Belt Lipectomy Pricing

A belt lipectomy, also known as a lower body lift, is a comprehensive surgical procedure that addresses excess skin and fat around the midsection. At Azurite Medical and Wellness, the cost for a belt lipectomy starts from 16,000 AUD. This price point reflects the extensive nature of the surgery, which includes a lift to the buttocks, groin area, and an extended tummy tuck.

What's Included in the Cost

The pricing for a belt lipectomy at Azurite is all-inclusive, meaning the 16,000 AUD covers more than just the surgical procedure. Typically, these packages include:

  • Surgeon and anesthetist fees

  • Hospital stay (usually 2 nights)

  • Accommodation at a luxury residence

  • Pre- and post-surgery consultations

  • Daily nurse visits during recovery

  • Airport and clinic transfers

Factors Affecting Cost

It's important to note that the final cost may vary depending on individual needs and the extent of the procedure. For instance, an extended tummy tuck with upper and lower waist liposuction and a mons lift starts at 13,000 AUD. The addition of lower back and buttock procedures to create a full 360° belt lipectomy increases the price to 18,000 AUD.

For those seeking even more comprehensive body contouring, a lower body lift that includes an extended thigh lift starts from 24,000 AUD. These variations in pricing reflect the complexity and scope of each procedure.

Value Considerations

While the cost of a belt lipectomy may seem significant, it's essential to consider the value provided. The procedure is particularly popular among weight-loss clients, offering transformative results that can significantly improve body contour and self-confidence. Additionally, the all-inclusive nature of Azurite's packages ensures a comfortable and well-supported surgical experience from start to finish.

How much weight do you lose with a belt lipectomy?

A belt lipectomy, also known as a lower body lift or circumferential body lift, is primarily a body contouring procedure rather than a weight loss surgery. The main goal of this procedure is to remove excess skin and fat around the midsection, hips, thighs, and buttocks, resulting in a more toned and sculpted appearance.

Weight Loss Expectations

While weight loss is not the primary objective of a belt lipectomy, patients may experience some reduction in weight due to the removal of excess skin and fat. The amount of weight lost can vary significantly between individuals, typically ranging from 5 to 15 pounds on average. It's important to note that this weight loss is generally modest compared to the overall body contouring benefits of the procedure.

Factors Influencing Weight Loss

Several factors can affect the amount of weight lost during a belt lipectomy:

  • The patient's starting weight

  • The extent of excess skin and fat present

  • The specific techniques used by the surgeon

It's crucial to understand that a belt lipectomy is not a substitute for weight loss surgery. Patients are typically advised to be at or near their target weight before undergoing this procedure. Significant weight fluctuations after the surgery can impact the results and potentially necessitate additional procedures.

Focus on Body Contouring

The primary benefits of a belt lipectomy extend beyond weight loss. This comprehensive procedure can lead to improved mobility, enhanced comfort, and increased self-confidence. By removing excess skin and tightening the remaining tissues, patients often experience a dramatic improvement in their overall body shape and contour.

What is the difference between a tummy tuck and a belt lipectomy?

When considering body contouring procedures, it's essential to understand the distinctions between various options. Two popular choices are the tummy tuck and the belt lipectomy, each offering unique benefits for different body types and aesthetic goals.

Tummy Tuck: Focused Abdominal Sculpting

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that primarily targets the abdominal area. This operation removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. It's an ideal choice for individuals who are primarily concerned with their midsection and want to achieve a flatter, more toned stomach.

Belt Lipectomy: Comprehensive Lower Body Transformation

In contrast, a belt lipectomy, also referred to as a lower body lift, is a more extensive procedure that addresses a larger area of the body. This surgery involves a 360-degree incision around the waist to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, thighs, hips, and buttocks. The belt lipectomy is particularly beneficial for patients who have undergone significant weight loss and are left with loose, sagging skin around their lower body.

Key Differences

The main distinction between these procedures lies in their scope and the areas they target. While a tummy tuck focuses solely on the abdominal region, a belt lipectomy takes a more holistic approach to sculpting the entire midsection and lower body. This comprehensive nature of the belt lipectomy often results in a more dramatic transformation, creating a more defined, contoured appearance from multiple angles.

When deciding between these procedures, it's crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your individual needs and recommend the most suitable option for achieving your desired results.

What Does a Lower Body Lift Include?

A lower body lift is a comprehensive surgical procedure designed to address multiple lower body contour issues. This transformative surgery goes beyond a simple tummy tuck, incorporating several techniques to reshape and rejuvenate the entire lower body.

Components of a Lower Body Lift

A lower body lift typically includes:

  • Extended tummy tuck

  • Belt lipectomy

  • Thigh lift

  • Buttock lift

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, a belt lipectomy, also known as a lower body lift, removes excess skin and fat around the waist or "belt line." This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced significant weight loss.

The Surgical Process

The lower body lift procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may require a few nights in the hospital for recovery. As outlined by Dr. Damon Thomas, the surgery involves making strategic incisions around the lower back and abdomen to remove excess skin and fat. The remaining tissue is then tightened and sutured for a smoother contour.

Benefits and Considerations

A lower body lift offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved body contour and proportions

  • Enhanced mobility and comfort

  • Boost in self-confidence

However, it's crucial to understand that this is a major surgical procedure with potential risks. According to a study published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal, proper patient selection and careful preoperative planning are essential for successful outcomes.

Patients considering a lower body lift should be at a stable weight and commit to maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery. It's important to have realistic expectations and discuss your goals thoroughly with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Who is a Good Candidate for Each Procedure?

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck is ideal for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy, resulting in excess skin and fat around the abdomen and flanks. We recommend this procedure for patients who have:

  • A stable weight, close to their ideal body mass

  • Good overall health

  • Realistic expectations about the results

This procedure targets the upper and lower stomach, waist, and flanks, making it suitable for those seeking comprehensive abdominal contouring.

360 Belt Lipectomy

A belt lipectomy, also known as a 360 tummy tuck, is appropriate for patients with more extensive skin laxity that extends around the entire midsection. Ideal candidates include:

  • Those who have lost a substantial amount of weight

  • Individuals experiencing discomfort or hygiene issues due to excess skin

  • Patients with realistic expectations and a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle

Belt lipectomy surgery addresses loose skin and fat around the waist, providing a more comprehensive solution than a standard tummy tuck.

Lower Body Lift

A lower body lift is the most extensive of these procedures, suitable for patients with significant skin laxity in the lower body, including the abdomen, thighs, hips, and buttocks. We recommend this procedure for:

  • Individuals who have achieved massive weight loss

  • Patients with excess skin causing mobility issues or recurrent infections

  • Those committed to maintaining their weight and overall health post-surgery

According to Dr. Damon Thomas, "Candidates for body lift surgery include those with dramatic weight loss resulting in significant skin sagging, isolated pockets of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise, and excess folds of skin causing irritation, rashes, and infections."

It's crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which procedure is best suited for your individual needs and goals. We at Azurite Medical and Wellness are committed to helping you achieve your desired results safely and effectively.

FAQs on Belt Lipectomy and Lower Body Lift Procedures

What is the difference between a belt lipectomy and an extended tummy tuck?

A belt lipectomy, also known as a lower body lift, is a more comprehensive procedure than an extended tummy tuck. While an extended tummy tuck targets excess skin and fat in the abdomen and flanks, a belt lipectomy addresses the entire lower body, including the abdomen, hips, lower back, and buttocks. The procedure involves a 360-degree incision around the waist, allowing for more extensive contouring and skin removal.

Who is an ideal candidate for these procedures?

Ideal candidates for a lower body lift or belt lipectomy are typically individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, either through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes, and are left with excess, sagging skin around their lower body. These procedures can also benefit those with stubborn fat deposits and skin laxity that don't respond to diet and exercise. It's important to note that these surgeries are not weight loss procedures but rather body contouring techniques.

What is the recovery process like?

Recovery from a belt lipectomy or lower body lift is a gradual process. Patients typically spend one night in the hospital and then rest at a hotel for the first 3-4 days post-surgery. Full recovery can take 4-6 weeks, during which time patients should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. Wearing compression garments as directed by your surgeon is crucial for optimal healing and results. It's important to note that while initial improvements are visible immediately, final results may take 3-6 months to fully emerge.

Are there any risks associated with these procedures?

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with belt lipectomy and lower body lifts. These may include infection, bleeding, poor wound healing, and blood clots. However, these risks can be minimized through careful patient selection, meticulous surgical technique, and strict adherence to post-operative care instructions. It's crucial to discuss all potential risks and complications with your board-certified plastic surgeon during your consultation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we at Azurite Medical and Wellness offer a range of body contouring procedures tailored to meet diverse patient needs. From the extended tummy tuck to the comprehensive lower body lift, our surgical options address varying degrees of excess skin and fat removal. We understand that choosing the right procedure can be complex, which is why we provide personalized consultations to determine the best approach for each individual. Our all-inclusive packages ensure a smooth experience from start to finish. We encourage prospective patients to carefully consider their goals, budget, and recovery time when selecting a procedure. With our expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, we are committed to helping you achieve the transformative results you desire.

Previous
Previous

Tummy Tuck Incisions: Why Placement and Length Varies

Next
Next

Healing Times and Care for Dissolvable and Non Dissolvable Stiches