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Is Liposuction Typically Done in an Abdominoplasty?

Assuming that there is some excess fat in the abdomen and flanks, would one assume that an abdominoplasty includes lipo or is this an add-on to the surgery? Would the surgeon proactively discuss this with the patient prior to surgery?

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abdomen flanks combination

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13 Doctor Answers | Asked by Brooklyn1379 in Brooklyn, NY

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LIposuction Plus Abdominoplasty

I find that liposuction helps me achieve a nicer balance to the hips, waist, and abdomen. I will include lipo to the waist and abdomen (in limited amounts) as a part of my tummy tucks. I will always discuss beforehand any other areas I feel may add to the result for my patient, and diagram this out the week before surgery so we both know exactly what is being done.

Lipo and a tummy tuck

Liposuction can be done in the flank region at the same time as a tummy tuck, but I always discuss this in advance. It is not part of a standard tummy tuck.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Liposuction is usually combined with a tummy tuck for a nice result...

Liposuction is usually combined with a tummy tuck for a nicer result. When performing a tummy tuck at the same time, the liposuction of the abdomen cannot be too aggressive, but the combination of tummy tuck and liposuction of the flank area gives the patient a significant and symmetrical result. Your surgeon will decide which areas of liposuction would be necessary in addition to the abdominoplasty and most surgeons do proactively discuss these points with you.

Abdominoplasty and liposuction

The need for abdominoplasty varies with body habitus. Approximately 85% of my patients require liposuction along with a tummy tuck to achieve the best results. I discuss this with all patients at length prior to any surgery. To be safe, it is prudent for you to be proactive with regards to your desired procedure to achieve your best result. Your efforts here and questions will help guide you to the best decisions. Good luck!

Some Liposuction Usually Included in Abdominoplasty

I typically perform some liposuction of the flanks at the time of a tummy tuck for which I do not charge additionally. If there is a separate area being suctioned (hips, thighs, etc.), then there would be an addition charge.

Liposuction Typically Done in an Abdominoplasty

To answer the EXACT question - NO! But in most cases liposuction is discussed in the pre operative session. Thus if you want some lipo you need to ask. From MIAMI Dr. Darryl J. Blinski, 305 598 0091

Liposuction and tummy tuck

Everything should be discussed prior to surgery. There should be no surprises. Many surgeons will use liposuction with tummy tucks to contour the hips, and some may even thin the abdominal wall. It varies...but communication should not vary.

Liposuction is commonly performed with a tummy tuck

Generally this is commonly performed with a tummy tuck but it can vary tremendously in terms of the amount to be removed and the time taken to perform this additional step. Having said that, fees wil vary according to the additional effort expended. see video

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

32 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Assume nothing

You needn't discuss everything with the surgeon way beforemthe surgery. Point out what you want. If the doctor does not discuss your problems, get another doctor.

Liposuction is usually a part of tummy tuck.

Hi. Most women benefit by liposuction of the upper abdomen and of the love handles together with a tummy tuck. We consider this all one operation. Of course, the surgeon should discuss with you exactly what he or she is going to do.

Tummy tucks often done with adjacent lipo

Contouring the fat layer is a routine part of a tummy tuck, and this may include tapering into the flanks. There are different approaches to determining if it is part of the tummy tuck or an add-on, and my policy is if I can get to it without having to turn the patient then it is part of the abdominoplasty. So it is determined by how far around to the back the area that needs lipo is. Your surgeon should definitely discuss it with you and you should be specific about your... more

Liposuction with tummy tuck

Liposuction is often performed as a part of tummy tuck to smooth the transition into the hip and flank if needed. Though in the cosmetic surgery market place today, you may be confronted by additional costs. The rule is to ask questions until you fully understand a proposed procedure and risks, and also have a written understanding of all costs involved, including facility charges and anesthesia if any. Never assume, as a disappointment can be just around the corner. Best of luck... more

Liposuction of the flanks may be done during a tummy tuck

It is safe to do careful liposuction of the flanks (sides) during a tummy tuck, but it is not safe to do liposuction of the upper abdomen - this may result in wound healing problems, skin loss (necrosis), and other serious complications. Whether or not it is "included" is a harder question. It depends on your surgeon. I personally feel that liposuction of the flanks is critical to getting a nice tummy tuck result, therefore I always consider it part of my tummy tuck at no... more