I need help reducing my abdomen. Should I get a tummy tuck, liposuction, or something else?

Question

Having degenerative disc disease makes doing abdominal exercise difficult, and progress slow. I have great spinal care now and am working to strengthen my core and loose some excess weight that I've accumulated over the past few years when I couldn't work out. Reducing my abdomen will help relieve some strain on my back. Sit-ups aren't working.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to provide specific advice without photos. Generally, a tummy tuck with skin excision and muscle tightening gives patients excellent contour as well as improves the tone of the anterior abdominal wall.  Please see a board certified plastic surgeon for an in-person examination to discuss the specific details of the procedures. Ask to see before and after photos to get an idea of what can be achieved. Hope this helps!

Mahlon Kerr, MD, FACS · Answer

Pictures would be helpful. In general if you have skin laxity then a tummy tuck is typically the correct choice.  If not then liposuction can help to reduce fatty deposits in specifics areas like tummy or hips. Visit with a few BC PS to learn more about your options. Good luck!

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Without any photos it is difficult to give you an opinion. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns. Regards,

Melinda Lirag Lacerna-Kimbrell, MD, FACS · Answer

A healthy diet and exercise are the best way to lose excess weight, but if you can't exercise  or need a boost liposuction can be a good alternative. Unfortunately, without any pictures and being unable to evaluate you I can't say which would be the best option for you. I recommend seeing a board certified plastic surgeon in person for a progress plan to reach your goal.Thank you for your question and good luck!Melinda Lacerna, MD FACS

Joshua A. Halpern, MD, PA · Answer

Thank you for your questionunfortunately there are no pictures . In order to determine what operation you require you need to be examined . If you have loose skin , excess fat and loose tummy muscles, you are a cadidate for the Malibu tummy tuck which I invented. ( please see the accompanying video ).     If you have loose tummy muscles , slightly loose skin and excess fat you are a candidate for moderate tummy tuck.      If you have loose tummy muscles and good quality skin then you are are a candidate for a mini scar tummy tuck.  I hope you find this helpful.

I need help reducing my abdomen. Should I get a tummy tuck, liposuction, or something else?

Answers (5)