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Liposuction vs Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Liposuction removes fat only; a tummy tuck also removes loose skin and tightens muscle.
Written & fact-checked by the ModYourBod Editorial Team against published industry sourcesUpdated July 20, 2026
Side-by-side comparison
| Liposuction | Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) | |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. surgeon's fee | $4,711 | $8,174 |
| Approach | Surgical | Surgical |
| Anesthesia | Local, IV sedation, or general (depends on the area and volume) | General anesthesia |
| Recovery | 7–28 days | 14–42 days |
| Results last | Permanent removal of fat cells in treated areas; remaining cells can still enlarge with weight gain. | Long-lasting with a stable weight; pregnancy or significant weight gain can affect results. |
| Reversibility | Permanent | Permanent |
| Risk level | Moderate | Moderate |
Liposuction
- Avg. surgeon's fee
- $4,711
- Approach
- Surgical
- Anesthesia
- Local, IV sedation, or general (depends on the area and volume)
- Recovery
- 7–28 days
- Results last
- Permanent removal of fat cells in treated areas; remaining cells can still enlarge with weight gain.
- Reversibility
- Permanent
- Risk level
- Moderate
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
- Avg. surgeon's fee
- $8,174
- Approach
- Surgical
- Anesthesia
- General anesthesia
- Recovery
- 14–42 days
- Results last
- Long-lasting with a stable weight; pregnancy or significant weight gain can affect results.
- Reversibility
- Permanent
- Risk level
- Moderate
Fees are average surgeon/physician fees (ASPS 2023) — the surgeon's fee only. Total cost is higher once anesthesia and facility fees are added.
Frequently asked questions
Is Liposuction or Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) cheaper?
By average surgeon's fee, Liposuction ($4,711) is lower than Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) ($8,174). These are surgeon's fees only — total cost is higher and varies by surgeon and location.
What's the main difference between Liposuction and Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?
Liposuction removes fat only; a tummy tuck also removes loose skin and tightens muscle.
Thinking about a cosmetic procedure?
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Informational only — not medical advice. Average costs change over time and vary by surgeon and location. Always consult a board-certified surgeon to decide what's right for you.