Age 31, BMI 30, no children, I really don't want a tummy tuck, is it the only way? (Photos)

Hello !

It looks like you could also benefit from BodyTite liposuction.
This technology uses radiofrequency energy, which will tighten up skin and dissolve fat. It will help to improve skin laxity.

Of course, an “in person” exam is necessary.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Hello and thank you for your question. From the pictures you have provided, you have striae (stretchmarks) present throughout your lower abdomen, anterior thighs, and buttocks. There is a moderate/severe amount of excess skin and subcutaneous fat present diffusely throughout your trunk- from your abdomen into your flanks and extending into your back. This is asymmetric in distribution. There are skin folds across your lower abdomen extending to your flanks, and you also have at least a fold present to your right mid back. Based on all this, you would most benefit from an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and 360 liposuction to best help improve your abdominal/trunk contour.
In general, the presence of stretchmarks indicates the presence of skin which has lost the ability to fully stretch and recoil properly. This skin therefore usually does not fully contract with just liposuction alone (without resecting any of the excess skin)- that tends to produce a very deflated appearance and ultimately requires another procedure to resect the excess skin and tighten the overall contour. This is why, in addition to liposuction, you would definitely benefit from an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) to best help improve your abdominal/trunk contour.
With all that said, it is always difficult to provide tentative surgical recommendations, as there is only so much information to be gained from any photos and descriptions provided. I recommend for you to come see me or another plastic surgeon for a formal consultation to thoroughly discuss your surgical goals, undergo a formal examination, evaluate all your options (surgical and nonsurgical), and decide on the best procedure(s) for your specific case. I hope this helps!
Best wishes,
Dr. Donald Groves
Plastic Surgeon

I would suggest starting with the liposuction and remove as much fat as possible. Minimally invasive skin tightening treatments like Renuvion can be added to help tighten the skin. You may actually do fairly well, or need only a mini tuck instead of a full once healed.