Mini-tummy tuck and/or lipo

Steven Wallach, MD answers: Liposuction vs Mini Tummy Tuck?

I am 35 and have had 2 C-sections. I do have a acummulated fat in the lower part of the abdomen and on the flanks. I had a recent consultation with a Plastic Surgeon who mentioned that I may be happy with Lipo alone, but could benefit from lipo+ mini tummy tuck (he says only a smalll % of people can actually qualify for it). I don't want the added risks involved with another procedure, and not the cost if would not make a drastic difference. He did say my skin is not in bad condition ...I do have some extra skin, but nothing sagging. You can notice it if I bend, for example, or move etc....It seems to be a lot of hype about samrtlipo and the benefits of skin Tightening. Would that be enough to have a flat tummy? Also, I don't like the idea of general anesthesia. Can a mini tummy tuck be performed under local+sedation, maybe?


Steven Wallach, MD
10 months ago
By Steven Wallach, MD - Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

First, in my opinion Smartlipo doesn't tighten the skin as much as the company says it does. 

Liposuction of the abdomen is OK if your skin is not too loose.  If you have a midline that is very lax, then liposuction alone may not flatten your abdomen. 

I don't performe a lot of mini-tummy tucks because I find that most that need something will usually need the entire abdomen treated (a full tummy tuck). 

If you don't want the scar, then if you are a candidate to do the liposuction first and see how things go. You can always do the mini or full tummy tuck at a later time.

4 of 4 found this helpful
Helpful?

Request info from Dr. Wallach

50 words maximum (0 words entered)
Your info is protected by our privacy policy
More answers to “Liposuction vs Mini Tummy Tuck?”

A: Lipo with a mini-tummy tuck.

George J. Beraka, MD
13 months ago
By George J. Beraka, MD - Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
I think I can visualize what your problem is because it is very common. Many women who have had a C-section develop a shelf along the C-section scar with skin and fat hanging over this shelf-like scar. If this is what your stomach looks like, then you are an ideal candidate for liposuction of the abdomen with a mini-tummy tuck. The recovery from this combination treatment is only a few days, and the results are very gratifying.
13 of 14 found this helpful
Helpful?
Contact the doctor
Back to “Liposuction vs Mini Tummy Tuck?”
Post your question
Email to friend
Permalink

Mini tummy tuck doctor answers

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.