Can Liposuction be an alternative to Tummy Tuck?

I'm a Tummy Tuck candidate, results are likely dramatic, but can't miss work for 2 weeks and have obvious follow-up recovery 1-4 months.

Flat abs would be nice, but not priority compared to hating the hip-to-hip pooch. I'll never be size 8, everywhere else proportional, but bulging tummy makes me unhappy with otherwise acceptable 36 yo, 5'9'', 165 lbs body.

Could Liposuction be done, then assuming more skin hanging post-lipo, just cut skin off without going through trauma of tightening muscles and stretching the skin down? If I'm ok with droopy belly button, still full-ish upper and lower abs, and can accept scar, is procedure like this feasible w/ less recovery time?

5 answers to “Can Liposuction be an alternative to...”

A: Hard to answer without an examination

By Ronald Shelton, MD - Manhattan Dermatologic surgeon

The most accurate answer to this question is obtained only after you are examined by the surgeon. If there is minimal fat above the muscle wall then there will be minimal improvement with liposuction. If there is more than an inch of fat that can be pinched between two fingers, you might receive a flatter... more

A: Liposuction is probably your best alternative

By David Hansen, MD - Beverly Hills Dermatologic surgeon

Liposuction will definitely make a noticeable difference and you will get some skin contraction as well so go ahead and get the liposuction. It is safer and you are back to work in 2 days. You can always get a tummy tuck later if you desire but you would be surprised at how much better your tummy will look... more

A: Liposuction instead of tummy tuck

By Steven H. Schuster, MD - Palm Beach Plastic Surgeon

Dear Rosemma You obviously have somewhat of a dilemma. It sounds like you want a tummy tuck but don't have the time or the vacation available to recuperate. Some of my patients are borderline candidates for either meaning you could get an ok result with lipo but a better result with a tummy tuck. If it... more

A: Liposuction can be an excellent first step

By Keith Denkler, MD - Marin Plastic Surgeon

A bulging abdomen usually has internal and external fat excess. Liposuction will sculpt the external fat and weight loss will reduce internal fat. Liposuction often is followed by good skin retraction. However, a secondary tummy-tuck or just skin excision can be done later. Spread muscles (diastasis... more

A: Lesser surgery equal lesser results

By John P. Di Saia, MD - Orange County Plastic Surgeon

Hello, As long as you are OK with the fact that lesser surgery will lead to lesser results, then you are probably OK. You may be setting yourself up for disappointment however. Have a long talk with your surgeon about this one and think about it a while before you have the surgery.