What’s the Difference Between a Lap Band and a Tummy Tuck?

As many men and women evaluate their options for trimming their midsection, many are wondering about the differences between lap band procedures and the traditional tummy tuck. What are the essential differences between the two? How can you tell which one is right for you? 

Tummy tuck is also referred to as abdominoplasty within medical circles and describes the procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the midsection, leaving it flat and toned. It is important to note that tummy tuck surgeries are not intended to be replacement for weight loss attempts and should be used in conjunction with healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise and eating moderate portions of good food. This is not a permanent form of weight loss. Once the skin and excess fat is removed, it can return if you fail to eat properly. 

On the other hand, lap band procedures are specifically designed to help aid initial weight loss efforts. A lap band is a small circle of material placed around the junction of your esophagus where it enters the stomach. This material effectively narrows the opening into the stomach, which makes it harder to eat large portions of food. If you eat too much, the food will get stuck in your throat or make you feel ill. This has the effect of making the person eat less and we all know that when we eat less, we lose weight. 

As you can see, tummy tuck and lap band procedures are two different types of operations designed to achieve two different goals. Abdominoplasty surgery will help remove excess skin and flatten an abdomen after massive weight loss or may be used to get rid of those final stubborn pounds. However, lap band is used by very obese people that want to lose a massive amount of weight by eating less. 

In some cases, both procedures may be indicated for your situation. If you use a lap band to lose a lot of weight, you may want to augment your new body by removing the excess skin left behind. An abdominoplasty can do just that. Contact a plastic surgeon in your area today to learn more about these procedures. He or she should be able to answer any questions you may have and let know if one or both of the procedures are right for you. Massive weight loss with lap band therapy can happen quite quickly and may make you an abdominoplasty candidate before you know it.