I'm 19 Years Old with Abnormally Large Love Handles and Small Hips. Is This Normal? (photo)

At 5'5 and 170 lbs, your BMI is 28, which makes you overweight.  The greatest weight loss at 5 years occurs in the diet with the least amount of fat.  Exercise would also be a benefit if you focus on the core, such as sit-ups.  The surgical option would be liposuction rather than abdominoplasty.  We can remove up to 11 lbs during liposuction safely in one session.  You are young and your skin should contract.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thank you for your question and the photos.

Liposuction would likely improve your problem areas but not completely make it better. You will also need additional diet and exercise to help too. Liposuction does not substitute for weight loss and does not prevent weight gain.

To be sure, see two or more board-certified plastic surgeons in your area for a full and complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have surgery.  I hope this helps.

 

You seem to have an unusual fat distribution for your age. Your best bet is to see your primary care doctor for advice on medically supervised weight loss. In most cases, a combination of increased physical activity (exercise 4 to 5 times per week) and diet control (including a food intake journal) will make a difference. For long-term improvement, these lifestyle changes must be maintained. 

If after trying this you still have areas that are out of proportion to the rest of your body, liposuction may be considered. At that point, you would want to talk with a Board Certified plastic surgeon. 

 

Good Luck