Can Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Be Done at the Same Time? Doctor Answers, Tips
Mommy Makeover: Q&A
Ask a Question

Can Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Be Done at the Same Time?

56 Doctor Answers | Asked by mahogany in NY
+4

Liposuction and tummy tuck can be done at the same time

Liposuction and Tummy Tucks ARE routinely done at the same time, BUT certain considerations apply. There are 2 reasons WHY this is even an issue: 1. Blood Supply injury - The tummy skin has 3 major sources of oxygen providing arterial blood supply. From the groin (Femoral) arteries on both sides, from several rows of blood vessels that go forward through the tummy muscles like a peach orchard (PERFORATORS) supplying the fat and skin above and from the continuation of several vessels that... more
+3

Liposuction at the same time as a Tummy Tuck is definitely possible

The combination of a liposuction with the a traditional tummy tuck has become a very common procedure. It is safe to combine the two procedures mainly to address the hip and flank areas. This is a very effective way to extenuate the contour of the waist along with the abdominoplasty. It is also important to realize that there is usually a limit on how much fat can be remove in a combined procedure. Patient should have consultations with a Plastic Surgeon that is board certified... more
+3

Yes, you can combine them but should you?

Liposuction and abdominoplasty (especially if it is minimal) can be done at the same time. However, the question arises should it? The questions that need to be answered include: 1) By combining them, what is your total expected time under anesthesia? It should be at a safe level well within your state's parameters. 2) The liposculpture benefits are often minimized if the two procedures are done at the same time. To achieve the optimal result, it is often best to remove... more

You might also like...

Real Stories

Tummy Tuck and Breast Lift Coming Soon for This Mommy... :) - Danvers, MA

A little about myself, I am a 31 yr old mom of 3. I started my transformation after my...

Before + After Photos

View 995 Mommy Makeover photos
+3

Liposuction and Tummy Tuck

I routinely perform liposuctioning at the time of a tummy tuck to treat the waist and flanks. The allows me to not only contouring the front of the abdomen, but also smooth out any love handles. However, I would caution any liposuctioning centrally as this could precipitate a healing problem. If there is any excess fat centrally in the abdomen, I would recommend performing the liposuctioning at a different time that your tummy tuck.
+2

Liposuction and tummy tuck at the same time

Hello, Yes, liposuction and tummy tuck can be done at the same time. In fact, there are few patients who do not need and benefit from liposuction at the same time as the tummy tuck. I routinely perform liposuction on all areas of the abdomen and flanks that benefit from additional thinning at the same time as the tummy tuck. All the best, Dr Repta
+2

Yes, combination for Lipo and Tummy Tuck is OK

It is typical to perform liposuction at the same time as tummy tuck. The only limitation has to do with the central area of the abdomen, as the other doctors have described. I can do gentle liposuction of the upper or lower abdomen but would not recommend aggressive liposuction to this area at the same time as the tummy tuck. There is no problem having liposuction to other areas such as hips, under the bra strap area of the back, inner or outer thighs.
+2

Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck and liposuction- minimizing risk

Abdominoplasty and liposuction are usually combined. The issue is to combine them safely and minimize risk to the patient. There are areas that are safe to do liposuction during an abdominoplasty, and areas that are more risky. Particularly around the belly button and in the lower abdomen, where the blood supply is the worst, experienced surgeons are very cautious. Also the health of the patient as a whole is important. An experienced surgeon might perform liposuction in several areas in... more
+1

Liposuction & Tummy Tuck Can Be Combined at the Same Time: Get the Facts Here

Following pregnancy, it is not uncommon to see women who have abdominal skin sag with stretch marks. Many of these patients also have fat collections of their hips and thighs. I frequently perform liposuction of the hips and thighs at the time of abdominoplasty, however, I avoid liposuction of the abdomen at the time of abdominoplasty because of the increased potential for wound-healing problems. When performing abdominoplasty, the lower abdominal incision and the elevation of abdominal... more
+1

Can Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Be Done at the Same Time?

Abdominoplasty and liposuction are frequently done simultaneously to obtain an optimum result. The liposuction cannulas are usually used laterally on the love handles. Caution that more central fat should be liposuctioned at another setting to avoid compromise of blood supply to the skin.
+1

Tummy tuck and liposuction combination is a winner!!!

It is safe to perform liposcution at the time of your tummy tuck. In fact, liposuction of the flanks and hips can enhance the results of a tummy tuck by giving a women a narrower waistline.
+1

Tummy tuck / Liposuction

Tummy tucks and liposuction are very often done together. The results of a tummy tuck, especially in the flanks ("love handles"), can be enhanced with the use of liposuction. I always combine the two to maximize my results. However, there are general restrictions as to the amount of fat that can be removed in conjunction with a tummy tuck. These restrictions are state-dependent. Please consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
+1

Liposuction & Tummy Tuck

It is important to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific medical condition and plastic surgery goals. An extensive procedure like this may not be safe for patients with certain conditions, so be sure to discuss your complete medical history during a consultation. Variables that would determine whether or not tummy tuck and liposuction can be performed at the same time include the amount of fat you want removed, the areas you want to improve... more
+1

Tummy tucks and liposuctioning

It is certainly possible to combine abdominoplasty with liposuctioning, but be aware that there is a clear limit as to how much fat should be removed with this combination. Safety concerns suggest no more than 1000 to 1500cc. of fat should be suctioned with this combination. Surgery will always require good judgement on the part of surgeons to minimize the risks to patients. The relatively small amount of fat removed may not make a serious... more
+1

Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Done at the Same Time

There are two different schools of thought on ths in plastic surgery meetings. Not all doctors are comfortable with this combination. I have found no problems in combining the procedures, but there are certain ares of the upper lateral (side) that I think are risky. We will aften do liposuction of the hips, thighs, and sometimes upper arms while doing the tummy tuck. Find a well experienced surgeon you are comfortable with and go with his recommendations.
+1

Lipo and tummy tuck at same time

I routinely perform liposuction of the abdomen and waist when I do a tummy tuck. Procedures such as breast augmentation and liposuction of other areas are commonly done as long as I feel it is safe and the surgery can be done in six hours or less. I advise against extremely long operations taking up to ten hours as risks of complications increases significantly.
+1

Liposuction with tummy tuck

Liposuction is performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck to help improve body contours. There may be some limitations to how much adipose tissue can be removed safely. To be safe, the surgeon must not exceed the safe limits of fat removal or administration of local anesthetic, and always consider the health of the patient before proceeding with the procedure. Excessive liposuction done at the time of tummy tuck may compromise blood flow and wound healing. Consult with a board certified... more
+1

Liposuction and Abdominoplasty Can Be Done Concurrently

It is often very important to perform liposuction in conjunction with your abdominoplasty, particularly on the love handles, or flanks, in order to achieve adequte circumferential contouring. I probably perform this combination on 80-90% of my abdominoplasty patients to achieve a better look. Liposuction on other areas at the same time can also be done safely at the same time as a tummy tuck, but there can be some potential increased risks with adding additional surgery, including... more
+1

Liposuction + Tummy Tuck is Routine

How to optimize the body shape with Tummy Tuck surgery: Step 1 - Tummy Tuck Tummy Tuck surgery removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen. And it tightens the muscle wall of the abdomen and powerfully re-supports any looseness of the supporting tissues below the skin. Step 1b - Cut out the deep fat layer - safer than liposuction of the abdomen Fat in the tummy area is divided into superficial (below the skin) and deep layers by a thin layer of tissue. By cutting... more
+1

They can be combined

Yes liposuction and tummy tuck can be combined in the same surgery. It is important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and listen to their advice. When you combine surgeries it will increase the amount of time you will be under general anesthesia. You want to make sure it is safe to be under for extended periods of time. Make sure to talk to your surgeon about what you can expect and weigh your options.
+1

Tummy tuck and liposuction at the same time: Lipoabdominoplasty

An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction can be done at the same time. It is really, the modern approach to body contouring and provides optimal results. It has been termed a lipoabdominoplasty, and should be performed by an experienced plastic surgeon because it can be technically more challenging than a simple tummy tuck. The addition of liposuction can help with outer and upper inner abdominal contouring, which in the past (and even now) has been criticized. I perform it... more
+1

Yes, but carefully...

Reshaping a mommy's midsection may potentially involve reducing fatty deposits, resecting stretch marked and redundant skin, as well as repairing musculofascial laxity and creating better aesthetics around the umbilicus, pubis and groin.  Ideally it's a circumferential technique, however the concerns about blood supply as well as length of operative time have to be factored into the equation.  If you are close to your ideal body mass index, liposuction of the flanks... more
+1

Liposuction and Tummy Tuck

There is not a one size fits all answer to this question.  In most cases, liposuction of the flanks can safely be done at the same time as abdominoplasty.  Occasionally, liposuction can also be performed to other parts of the body.  It really depends on your anatomy and the extent of surgery that is required for your abdominoplasty.  Good luck.
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck

Adding liposuction of the hips and upper back to an abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a great way to define the waist.  Although it is extra operative time, this added risks are minimal and it gives my patients that "hour glass" appearance they are looking for.  Best wishes, Neil Zemmel, MD
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck at the same time: VERY COMMON

it is very common to do liposuction at the time of a tummy tuck. At a minimum, I use liposuction to contour the waist and upper hips at the time of tummy tuck.  Often, we add contouring of the back and bra rolls and/or the thighs as well.  The amount that can be done safely depends on the surgery time and the volume of liposuction.  Talk with your plastic surgeon about your options.
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck at same time

Combining procedures is very dependent on the individual patient.  How healthy are you, and how long will it take to complete the operations.  Often we will perform a tummy tuck, and then liposuction on flanks, back or legs.  We usually do not do liposuction the tummy and tummy tuck at the same time.   Make sure that you are fit enough for surgery.  Consult a board certified plastic surgeon and together determine what is best for you.
+1

Liposuction combined with a tummy-tuck

Hello Mahogany,  Liposuction of the abdomen and waist can safely be combined with a mini or full tummy-tuck. Plastic surgeons are uniquely qualified to combine these two techniques, as it takes experience to safely perform liposuction and tightening of skin and muscle. Frequently, I will recommend liposuction of the flanks and bra-strap area  to provide a slimmer waist. Liposuction of the waist and bra-strap area can be combined with tummy-tuck  to lower the... more
+1

Liposuction performed at same time as tummy tuck

A tummy tuck procedure, or abdominoplasty, may be combined with a number of other procedures, including liposuction. Liposuction is often performed on the flanks and hips to help achieve a better contour.
+1

Consider surgery time

Mahogany- Liposuction can be performed at the same time as a tummy tuck. Since you will already be under general anesthesia there are some things to consider. The over surgical time is important when performing two procedures at once. You do not want to under general anesthesia for more time than is healthy for you. Talk to your surgeon about how much time under general anesthesia is necessary for you to receive a tummy tuck and some liposuction. This will depend on how much liposuction you... more
+1

Liposuction at same time as tummy tuck

Liposuction can be performed at the same time as a tummy tuck provided it is limited to certain areas.  This means it is safe to do liposuction of the flanks or sides at the same time but not the mid or upper abdominal area.  The reason for this is that the blood supply to the abdominal skin/tissue can be jeopardized and compromised which can lead to serious wound healing complications and infection. If your upper abdomen is of particular concern to you, then it is best to have... more
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck at the same time

Yes and no. Yes, you can liposuction other areas of the body at the time of tummy tuck. No, you cannot liposuction the abdomen. Why? When you do a tummy tuck (this is a full tummy tuck, not a wedge or miniabdominoplasty), you create what is called a skin flap. This interferes with the blood supply to the abdominal skin.  You then pull that skin, stretch it, and sew it.  This is a lot for your skin to do.  It is not safe to beat up your abdominal skin flap by... more
+1

Yes..definately works the best

I perform many tummy tuck operations and always liposuction the flanks (hips) at the same time as the tummy tuck.  it helps me to contour the abdomen and looks much better as it heals.  I always combo it as my patients love having a slimmer waistine after the tummy tuck. Good luck!
+1

Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Combination

Most surgeons would feel performing liposuction on the abdomen at the time of a tummy tuck would increase the risks of serious complications so they are seldom done together.  The two procedures done at the same time can dramatically impact the blood supply to the skin of the abdomen and possibly cause skin death. Liposuction on other areas of the body does not compromise the abdominal wall blood supply and can be done safely at the time of tummy tuck without any real impact on... more
+1

Abdominoplasty with liposuction?

It is fairly common to do liposuction of the upper abdomen and hips at the same time as an abdominoplasty. How ever liposuction of the thighs should be done separately do to excess swelling and the blood supply may be compromised.
+1

Tummy tuck and liposuction can be done together

Yes, I usually do liposuction at the time of a tummy tuck. Liposuction allows reduction of the fat under the remaining tummy skin, thinning and smoothing of the fat along the edges of the tummy, and removal of unwanted fat in other areas. This allows us to make everything more proportional.  
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck can be done at the same time

Liposuction is commonly done at the same time as a tummy tuck. In our practice, all tummy tucks have liposuction included. This is because liposuction is a wonderful way for us to reach areas that we otherwise would not be able to access the traditional tummy tuck. Liposuction can allow us to redefine the shape of the abdomen and re-create curves in a way that a traditional tummy tuck cannot. Be sure to discuss your concerns with and experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon so that... more
+1

Abdominoplasty can also involve liposuction for a contoured waist - as long as it is safe!

Abdominoplasty has the goals of removing excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, tightening the abdominal wall contour, and bringing the rectus abdominis muscles back together in the midline. Liposuction simply removes excess fat in areas where it is deposted in excess. Sometimes, these two procedures are combined for the most aesthetic result. However, this must be done in the safest way possible, without creating additional risks. I usually perform the abdominoplasty... more
+1

Abdminoplasty and liposuction

An abdominoplasty can be performed with some liposuction. I would not lipo the central area of the flap if I am performing a full tummy tuck, but certainly liposuction of the hips or thighs is ok.
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck can usually be done at the same time

Liposuction and tummy tuck surgery can usually be done at the same time as long as the two operations do not interfere with each other. There are certain areas in which lipo should not be performed when a tummy tuck is done at the same time. Other than this they can be done together. Best Regards.
+1

Tummy Tuck with Lipo

There are 2 safety issues when considering combing an abdominoplasty with liposuction: DVT risk - deep venous thrombosis (blood clots in the veins) and pulmonary embolism (which can cause sudden death after surgery). This is a time dependent risk that is present with every operation performed (longer operations have more risk). There are some studies that suggest combining a tummy tuck with lower extremity liposuction have a notably higher risk for DVT occurrence, so many surgeons will... more
+1

Safety and combined Tummy Tuck and Lipo

Many patients who are candidates for a tummy tuck also have localized areas of fat that they want addressed at the same time. Studies do show that it is safe if the surgery time isn't too long and the patient is in good health and not overweight. There are limits to how much lipo can be done in a single session though (the wmost widely accepted number is 5 liters), and less when a tummy tuck is done too.
+1

Can Liposuction and Tummy Tuck be done at the same time?

Hi there- The short answer is yes, but the real answer will depend on the areas you are interested in having liposuction and the length of the surgery required. It is important that the liposuction not compromise the blood vessels necessary for healing of the tummy tuck or dramatically increase your risk of a serious complication like a blood clot after surgery. The best way to get an answer that is accurate and responsible given your particular situation is to consult with a Board Certified... more
+1

Abdominoplasty and Liposuction is safe and essential

This is a very common combination. To achieve the optimal abdominal contour liposuction is essential while performing an Abdominoplasty. This combo is safe when performed in experience surgical hands. Your physician should explain to you where any liposuction will be performed prior to surgery and the morning of surgery as they perform the preoperative markings.
+1

Hip liposuction and tummy tuck are safe, effective and essential

Flank or hip Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck is a safe and effective procedure if done in healthy patients that are non-smokers and not obese. I think it is almost essential to combine at least these two procedures in most patients to get the best results to avoid the excess lateral or outer bulge after doing a tummy tuck. The hip or flank liposuction prevents this problem and helps to dramatically improve or narrow the waist/hip area after the tummy tuck.
+1

Tummy Tuck, Abdominoplasty, Liposuction

Dear Mahogany, The combination of surgeries such as tummy tuck and liposuction can be done. The important considerations are your surgical risks. Patients that are overweight, smokers, diabetic or on the Birth Control Pill are at higher risk for blood clot and blood thinning agents should be considered following surgery.
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck

Although many surgeons may perform both in the same visit, the question is what is the risk of performing liposuction of the abdomen and doing a tummy tuck the same day? Is there a chance of a fat embolus traveling which can be fatal. If this was the anatomic site you were contemplating having done, then ask your surgeon about the safety of doing both together.
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck can be combined

YES! In Florida if done in an office surgery setting only 1 liter of fat can be remove doing a Tummy Tuck. If done in a hospital setting or Ambulatory Surgery Center I have remove up to 3 liters of fat. The surgeon must determine the safety of the combination of Tummy Tuck with liposuction, if you are a good candidate, medical risks, good informed consent, risk/benefit ratios.
+1

Liposuction of the flanks is fine with a tummy tuck

I will very often combine liposuction of the flanks with a tummy tuck. However, because the most dangerous risk of a tummy tuck is blood clot problems in your leg veins (DVT), I will never do lipo below the waist at the same time. In order to prevent DVT, one of the vital measures is early and frequent ambulation so I would not want to add pain to your legs and lessen the chance of your walking.
+1

Do not combine tummy tuck with liposuction of the thighs.

HI! Liposuction and tummy tuck are routinely done together.  But to keep things safe, the questions are how much liposuction, and of what areas.  So it's hard to generalize.  We usually do liposuction of the upper abdomen and of the love handles.
+1

Liposuction and abdominoplasty

Of course they can be performed simultaneously. The real question is how safe and accurate is it to do at the same time. Safety involves many factors but the predominate one as it relates to abdominoplasty and liposuction is blood flow concerns and subsequent healing. Aggressive lipsuction of areas that are then moved or tightened with abdominoplasty can lead to skin necrosis. Planning has to been done with this in mind. Other issues are blood loss and length of surgery. Careful consultation... more
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck

Although I usually combine liposuction and tummy tuck because I believe the contouring is better I am conservative with where I liposuction. I never liposuction the flap that is created during a tummy tuck. I will liposuction the flanks as this will not affect the blood supply to the flap. I avoid liposuctioning the flap because this can injure the flap which will increase chance of skin loss and open wounds.
+1

Liposuction and tummy tuck at the same time, yes and no

I do liposuction and abdominoplasy at the same time, but I will not suction the upper flap because it can lead to healing problems. I suction the flanks or legs at the same time -- that is safe and can easily be done to improve the overall result. 
+1

Lipoplasty and Tummy Tuck

I routinely perform some limited liposuction at the time of abdominoplasty, but I feel that aggressive suctioning of the upper abdomen is safer to perform later as a secondary procedure. A tummy tuck involves division of several of the main blood vessels to the abdomen. The blood supply must then come from other vessels, including those of the upper abdomen and chest which can be injured with aggressive liposuction.
+1

Liposuction enhances Tummy Tuck results

I will often combine the two, as liposuction can allow me to further sculpt the hips, waist, and flanks.  Performing liposuction on the front of the abdomen at the same time as tummy tuck is generally not recomemnded, as it can cause healing problems.
+1

Tummy tuck and Liposuction at the same time

Yes, tummy tuck and liposuction can be safely perfomed at the same time. I routinely combine the two procedures with great success. Surgeons have to be well-versed in the technique, but if done right, the results are fabulous without increasing the complication rate. Of course, physical exam is required prior to any decision about surgical technique and/or procedures. Good luck! Dr. Singer
+1

Adominoplasty and liposuction

SEE VIDEO BELOW FOR SAMPLE: Yes they can. However, about 8 years ago there was much controversy about this. Most surgeons perform liposuction on portions of the abdomen (typically the hips) where the skin is not being pulled. Performing liposuction on the undermined (lifted) skin can compormise the circulation and cause the skin to heal poorly. Alternatively, some surgeons believe there is an increased risk of blood clots when performing these two procedures at the same setting, more
Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (0)

Ask a Question

Welcome Back

Sign in with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Forgot your password?

Don't have an account? Create one now.

Join RealSelf

Join with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Please enter a valid email address
 Did you mean ?

By creating an account, you are indicating that you have read and accept the RealSelf Terms of Use.

Already a member? Sign In.

Retrieve your password

Enter your username or email address and we will send you a link to login.

Check your email

Check your email. We've sent you a link to reset your password.

Ok