Do I Need Lipo on the Hips with a Tummy Tuck & is It Safe? (photo)

Thank you for your question. Congratulations on your marathon and fitness following your pregnancy.You are in good shape but do have some lax skin which you notice. More importantly to your question is that you do have excess subcutaneous fat beneath the skin.liposuction to remove the excess fat especially in the flank area but also in the upper abdomen will improve your tummy tuck results.During a tummy tuck it is difficult to get optimal tightening of the skin when there is excess fat beneath the skin of the abdomen, because the fat prevents downward pulling and tightening of the skin following your surgery.It is very important however that the liposuction be limited and judicious and not be aggressive. You need to discuss this specifically with your surgeon. I almost always do liposuction in conjunction with my tummy tuck procedures but I am very careful not to be too aggressive because aggressive liposuction during the course of a tummy tuck can interfere with blood supply and injure the skin.Please consult a plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, very experienced in tummy tuck and liposuction surgery, and who has an excellent reputation in your community.

Almost all of my tummy tuck patients also receive some liposuction to the front side of the love handles.  I think it helps to blend the transition between the tummy tuck site and the non-operated back side.  This combination is very safe.  There are endless combinations of liposuction in other areas and tummy tucks.  Some of these are safe and some are not.  You will need to discuss what other areas you are considering with your surgeon and get their opinion.

    Liposuction of the flanks and tummy tuck can be safely performed, and it will create a better result by narrowing your waist (and hips) if you want.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA