Want Abdominal Liposuction or Alternative but Have a Colostomy. What is the Best Option?

More specifically....I'm F 36yo, 5'2, 130# (w/muscle). Measurements 36-34-36. I am an exercise specialist and dietitian. I'm happy with my weight everywhere except the abdomen. Also, a smaller waist would make having the colostomy more comfortable underneath jeans. What would you suggest? I would greatly appreciate your help.

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7 Doctor Answers | Asked by MsGulfport in Gulfport, Mississippi

Doctor Answers (7)
Community Comments (1)

Liposuction is possible if you have a colostomy

I have successfully peformed liposuction in people with an abdominal colostomy. This takes added expertise in liposuction technique as well as knowledge about colostomies to avoid injury. You should seek out a highly skilled and qualified plastic surgeon.

Does colostomy preclude liposuction?

I would like to know the reason for the colostomy and if it is reversible. I agree with Dr. Sattler that I wouldn't be anxious to perform lipo on a colostomy patient. Your underlying medical condition may expose you to a higher risk level than would be appropriate for such an elective procedure.

Abdominoplasty vs. liposuction in the presence of a colostomy

I have performed liposuction on patients with colostomies to allow the bag to sit better around the colostomy opening so liposuction can be done around and away from the opening safely. Without photos or a face to face examination it is impossible to say what you could reasonably expect from liposuction alone vs. abdominoplasty with or without liposuction. Most colostomies are temporary but from your post I assume yours cannot be reversed. If it can be reversed you would be better off... more

Liposuction and colostomy - I am personally uncomfortable with the combination

You did not mention the reason why you happen to have a colostomy - related to inflammatory bowel disease, perhaps. Personally, I would be uncomfortable offering elective abdominal liposuction on a patient with a colostomy. Chance of a complication (bowel perforation) just a little bit too high, in my opinion. Other more experienced surgeons on this forum may have a differing views.

Liposuction with colostomy

Thank you for your question about liposuction with a colostomy Yes liposuction around a colostomy can be done very successfully, Your abdominal surgery may have caused the excess fat deposits - this is called post traumatic lipodystrophy Find a careful and experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon - ideally fully trained in general surgery so your surgeon has a thorough understanding of colostomies and their management. Hope this helps. Best wishes. more

Liposuction with Colostomy

I would consider doing it after an examination of you, your records, and a recent CT. Find the plastic surgeon with ELITE credentials who performs hundreds of liposuction procedures each year. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Abdominal Liposuction Options

Thank you for your question. I would first recommend obtaining medical clearance with your GI surgeon for a lipo procedure If it is an excess fat, liposuction will be best for you to do. Be certain to be under the supervision of a board certified plastic surgeon with expertise in body contouring for the best and safest results. I hope this helps.

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Comments (1)

MsGulfport 24 Sep 2012

Thank you for the responses. Yes, the colostomy is permanent since I had cancer as a child. I would really just want fat removed from the waist/sides. Is there an easier way without surgical liposuction?

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