Vaserlipo or Mini Tummy Tuck - which procedure would give better results for minimizing pooch? 31 y/o 5'0 and 150 lbs. (photos)

Question

I was pretty set on Vaserlipo 360, but now possibly considering a mini tummy tuck or both. I am 31 years old, have always had a "pooch" even before my c-section. It's partly genetic. I'm 5'0 and weigh about 150. I'm fairly active and eat well. I only have one child and don't plan on any more. I am seriously having a hard time deciding what I want and what would look best. I had a surgery date set, but reconsidering due to the price. Vaserlipo 360 for 16k.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether Vaserlipo or a mini tummy tuck would give you better results for minimizing your pooch. Based on your photos and description, it seems that Vaser liposuction alone would leave you with excess skin on your abdomen, particularly because of the overhang you're experiencing. Vaser lipo could help to contour and remove fat, and it can provide minimal skin contraction, but it’s unlikely to fully address the loose skin and muscle laxity, especially after your C-section and with your genetic predisposition for a "pooch."

I would recommend a full tummy tuck with muscle plication (tightening of the abdominal muscles) in combination with liposuction of the flanks. This would give you a flatter stomach and a more defined waistline. Liposuction of the lower back could further enhance the results, giving you even more of an hourglass shape.

While the mini tummy tuck is less invasive, it may not provide the comprehensive results you're looking for since it typically only addresses the lower abdomen. The full tummy tuck would remove the excess skin, tighten the abdominal muscles, and contour the entire abdomen for a more complete transformation.

I understand that the cost is an important factor in your decision, but I believe the combination of a tummy tuck and targeted liposuction would give you the long-term results you're hoping for. I encourage you to discuss these options with your plastic surgeon to determine the best approach for your goals.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Giuseppe Fiore, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question and photos. 
I know this could be a tough decision. 
In my clinical practice and in similar cases, I always recommend two surgical options. The first option is abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and Vaser liposuction on your flanks and lower back. This option is for patients who want to achieve a flatter and more toned abdomen. A tummy tuck involves removing excess skin and tightening the underlying muscles to provide a more contoured and firm abdominal appearance. However, this procedure involves an extensive scar on the lower abdomen.
The second option is a less invasive approach: Vaser liposuction combined with Renuvion/J plasma or Bodytite on the upper and lower abdomen, flanks, and back area. The second option is ideal for patients who want to achieve body contouring and improve the waistline with less extensive scars; however, this procedure does not remove excess skin. The combination of Renuvion with Vaser liposuction can increase the likelihood of skin tightening, and my preferred method involves circumferential body Vaser liposuction (360-degree approach) and Renuvion/J plasma, which is an excellent option for women or men who want to improve their body contour and silhouette with fewer scars and avoid a tummy tuck.
Renuvion only requires one session and is typically performed under general anesthesia or sedation in a hospital setting. Bodytite requires one session in combination with Morpheus 8 (three sessions four weeks apart).
Before undergoing Vaser liposuction, it's essential to have a preoperative assessment to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Factors such as a BMI less than 30-32, overall health, and medications you are taking will be evaluated. It's important to note that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure and should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise. Additionally, while Vaser Liposuction can effectively remove unwanted fat, it may not address loose skin or stretch marks. Therefore, it's important to have realistic expectations and understand the limitations of the procedure.
I would suggest making an appointment with a surgeon expert in body contouring and skin tightening who can assess your specific situation and recommend the best course of treatment for you. They can also discuss any potential risks and benefits associated with the procedure.

Hope this helps. All the best,

Dr. Giuseppe Fiore

Mark Edward Hennessy, MD · Answer

A stubborn bulge frequently develops post C-section. Based upon your photos I believe that you are enjoying good skin elasticity and assuming that you do not suffer from any chronic medical disorders I would recommend that you consider Liposuction. If the price was the only factor which deterred you from pursuing same, then I would suggest performing a Google search for inexpensive Lipo. Also, Realself has a list of price ranges for Lipo and you might consider reaching out to another Realself patient whom has already had Lipo in your city.
Hope this is helpful.

Jerimiah Mason, MD · Answer

If you undergo liposuction alone (even with vaser) you will end up with a fair amount of loose skin. Combining it with a mini tuck will probably give you better results as it will eliminate some (potentially not all) of the loose skin.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Based on these photos, you would do best with a full tummy tuck and VASER lipo 360 degrees. This will give you an hourglass figure. Your back cannot be evaluated from these photos. The abdominoplasty incision needs to be placed at the pubic bone level so you can wear a bikini afterwards.
See a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in advanced body sculpting techniques for an in person consultation/evaluation. Good luck.

Vaserlipo or Mini Tummy Tuck - which procedure would give better results for minimizing pooch? 31 y/o 5'0 and 150 lbs. (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Beware of loose skin

Answer: Beware of loose skin

Answer: Vaserlipo or Mini Tummy Tuck - which procedure would give better results for minimizing pooch? 31 y/o 5'0 and 150 lbs.

Answer: Vaserlipo or Mini Tummy Tuck - which procedure would give better results for minimizing pooch? 31 y/o 5'0 and 150 lbs.

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Vaser Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Vaserlipo or Mini Tummy Tuck - which procedure would give better results for minimizing pooch? 31 y/o 5'0 and 150 lbs. (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Beware of loose skin

Answer: Beware of loose skin

Answer: Vaserlipo or Mini Tummy Tuck - which procedure would give better results for minimizing pooch? 31 y/o 5'0 and 150 lbs.

Answer: Vaserlipo or Mini Tummy Tuck - which procedure would give better results for minimizing pooch? 31 y/o 5'0 and 150 lbs.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Vaser Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.