Can liposuction and tummy tuck be done at the same time?

Thank you for your question regarding the combination of liposuction and a tummy tuck. Yes, these procedures can be performed together, but there are important considerations to keep in mind, particularly regarding blood supply. During a tummy tuck, the skin and fat are lifted off the underlying muscles, which can already compromise the blood supply to the area. Adding liposuction, especially in the same area, could further reduce blood flow, increasing the risk of complications like poor wound healing or tissue necrosis.

The best approach to minimize these risks is to focus liposuction on the love handles or flanks, as these areas are further from the central abdominal blood supply. Liposuction of the rectus abdominis lines (the lines that form the "six-pack" look) is possible, but it carries higher risks because it directly overlaps with the areas involved in the tummy tuck. Your plastic surgeon will carefully assess your anatomy and recommend the safest approach to achieve your desired results.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Yes - these can be performed at the same time and this is routine in our practice to improve post-operative contour of the waist.

Yes liposuction cane be safely done at the same time as tummy tuck. In fact i do liposuction to all my tummy tuck operations to the flank to get better curves. Liposuction to other areas can also be done at the same time. The limiting factor is the total anaesthetic duration of the case . Please discuss with yiyr surgeon what areas of liposuction can be done in a safe way.