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Achieving a flatter and more contoured stomach is a highly desirable goal many patients have when they come to see us at Centre for Surgery in London. Many patients often develop a larger midsection composed of loose and saggy skin whether this occurs after pregnancy or after losing a significant amount of weight.
We are proud to offer two of the most effective treatments for achieving a more sculpted and tighter-looking midsection. Our surgeons are experts in both BodyTite and tummy tuck surgery. Although both treatments can achieve similar results by tightening the skin, the mechanism by which they achieve this is very different. Here, we will discuss the pros and cons of both treatments and in which circumstances we would recommend a particular treatment.
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What are the pros and cons of BodyTite?
BodyTite is designed for patients who are at or near their ideal weight but often have both skin laxity and stubborn areas of fat that have proven resistant to diet and exercise. BodyTite relies on the principle of radio frequency-assisted skin tightening, which helps to get rid of areas of loose skin without the need for more invasive surgery. BodyTite can be carried out under a local anaesthetic for small, well-localised areas, with large areas being better suited to a general anaesthetic. BodyTite is not ideal for removing large amounts of fat or addressing severe skin laxity. The recovery period after BodyTite is significantly quicker compared with a tummy tuck.
Pros
- It is ideal for removing small areas of fat when combined with liposuction
- Helps to tighten areas of the skin by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin
- A quick recovery period of 2 to 3 days with full healing after two weeks.
Cons
- Not able to tighten skin to the same extent as a tummy tuck
- Not able to get rid of stretch marks
- It is not suitable for severe skin laxity caused by massive weight loss
What are the pros and cons of a tummy tuck?
The tummy tuck or abdominoplasty procedure is able to remove significant amounts of fat compared with BodyTite, can remove stretch marks and can repair weakened abdominal muscles. Tummy tuck surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic. It involves two incisions, with the main incision running across the lower part of the abdomen from hip to hip and a much smaller incision circling the belly button. Any areas of excess skin and fat are surgically removed with stitches before the skin is closed. Tummy tuck surgery takes two to three hours, depending on the type of tummy tuck being performed. You will need a responsible adult escort to collect you from the clinic and to look after you for the first couple of days after your procedure. Tummy tuck surgery can effectively treat patients who have undergone significant weight loss, unlike BodyTite. Tummy tuck surgery is a major undertaking and significantly more invasive with a longer recovery period compared with BodyTite.
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Pros
- It can remove more fat than BodyTite
- Significant skin tightening effects even for severe skin laxity
- It can get rid of stretch marks and tighten weakened abdominal muscles
Cons
- A tummy tuck is more invasive than BodyTite, with more scarring
- The risk of surgical complications is higher with a tummy tuck
- The tummy tuck recovery period takes up to 6 weeks compared with BodyTite
What is the recovery period like for BodyTite and tummy tuck?
Most patients who have had a BodyTite procedure may notice mild discomfort with associated swelling at the treatment site. Wearing a compression garment for seven days will help reduce swelling and speed up healing. Patients are often ready to return to work a few days after the treatment, although it is important not to carry out strenuous activity for at least two weeks after the procedure. Tummy tuck surgery is a major undertaking, and it is normal to expect bruising, swelling, and temporary numbness in the abdominal region. Tummy tuck surgery often requires the insertion of wound drains to help remove excess fluids and blood from the area of surgery.
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One of our postoperative nurses will remove these wound drains three days after your procedure. Your surgeon will provide you with a prescription for painkillers to help manage mild to moderate discomfort. The compression garment can also help support the area during the healing phase and promote improved levels of comfort. We would advise taking one week off after a tummy tuck to allow for a smooth recovery. It is important not to do too much too soon in the early recovery period to prevent certain complications of a tummy tuck from occurring, such as wound breakdown. Excessive movement could disrupt the tummy tuck stitches. It would be best if you avoided strenuous exercise until a minimum of six weeks after your tummy tuck procedure.
RELATED: What does a tummy tuck recovery involve?
BodyTite vs Tummy Tuck results
Both BodyTite and a tummy tuck are designed to produce a significant improvement by flattening the stomach and getting rid of belly fat. The ideal result after either procedure is a more controlled and sculpted abdomen with no excess fat and smooth and tight skin. You can expect long-term and permanent results as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle with healthy eating and regular exercise. The effect of radio-frequency energy used as part of the BodyTite procedure will result in continued skin tightening for 3 to 6 months after the procedure. Unlike a tummy tuck to get rid of loose skin, BodyTite results in little, if any, scarring.
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Tummy tuck vs BodyTite FAQs
What are the differences between BodyTite and a tummy tuck?
BodyTite is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency technology to melt fat and tighten the skin. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles.
What is the recovery time for both procedures?
BodyTite usually has a shorter recovery time, typically a few days to a week, with some residual swelling lasting a few weeks. On the other hand, a tummy tuck has a longer recovery period, often requiring 2-3 weeks off work and several weeks to months for full recovery.
Are the results from both procedures permanent?
The results from both procedures can be long-lasting if a stable weight is maintained. However, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and ageing can affect the longevity of the results.
Which procedure is more effective?
This depends on individual goals and needs. BodyTite is effective for moderate skin tightening and fat reduction, while a tummy tuck is more suitable for those with significant excess skin or weakened abdominal muscles.
What are the potential risks or side effects of each procedure?
Both procedures have potential risks, such as infection, bleeding, and reactions to anaesthesia. BodyTite may risk burns due to the use of radiofrequency energy, while tummy tuck surgery carries additional surgical risks such as blood clots or wound healing complications.
How long does it take to see the final results from each procedure?
BodyTite often shows immediate results, with skin tightening improvements continuing for several months post-procedure. For a tummy tuck, results are typically visible once post-surgical swelling has decreased, which can take several weeks to months.
Which procedure is more expensive?
The cost can vary depending on many factors, but generally, a tummy tuck is more expensive due to the complexity of the surgery.
RELATED: How much does BodyTite cost?
Why Opt for Centre for Surgery for Your BodyTite Procedure?
Considering BodyTite in London, your best option is undoubtedly Centre for Surgery. We offer an unmatched level of care, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team of expert surgeons. Our tailored approach ensures that each patient receives personalised treatment, focusing on safety, comfort, and achieving the best possible results.
What Our Patients Say
- “My BodyTite experience at Centre for Surgery was extraordinary. The staff were professional, attentive, and the outcome has exceeded all my expectations.” – George, London
- “From the first consultation to post-surgery care, Centre for Surgery has been exceptional. Their professionalism and attention to detail made me feel confident and relaxed throughout.” – Emily, Oxford
- “I can honestly say choosing Centre for Surgery for my BodyTite procedure was an excellent decision. The team is skilled and caring, and the results are beyond amazing.” – Hannah, Surrey
How to Book Your Consultation
📞 Phone: 0207 993 4849
📧 Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com
📍 Address: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN
For easy booking, you can also navigate to our Contact Us page.
More Information You Might Need
- About Us: To know why we stand out in the cosmetic surgery field, feel free to browse our About Us page.
- Finance Options: Financing your BodyTite procedure is more convenient than ever with our range of finance options, including 0% APR via Chrysalis Finance. More details are available on our Finance Options page.
- Our Blog: For further insights into BodyTite and other cosmetic surgeries, our Plastic Surgery Blog is an excellent resource.
- FAQs: For answers to commonly asked questions about BodyTite or any other procedure, visit our Clinic FAQs.
- Our Baker Street Clinic: Located on Baker Street for your convenience, find more about our exceptional facilities here.
Begin your journey toward a more confident self by booking a consultation at Centre for Surgery today. We are committed to your care and satisfaction at every step.
