Will I need a tummy tuck or too early to tell? (Photo)

Thank you for your question regarding whether you will need a tummy tuck after your 360 power-assisted liposuction with renuvion to your abdomen. Basically, the simple answer is that it is too early to tell. Liposuction is not an immediate result. Though results are usually seen on the table, it takes a full 6-8 weeks to notice the final outcome. For patients who undergo more aggressive liposuction with the vaser or other more invasive liposuction techniques, the results take longer to appear. Since you are only two weeks out from your surgery, your results are not final. You are still swollen. It will take an additional 4-6 weeks for you to see your final results. In the meantime, I would suggest that you have a lymphatic massage 2-3 times a week for 2-3 weeks. If you are still swollen after these lymphatic sessions, you will need a further lymphatic massage. It is important to seek a certified lymphatic massage therapist. I'm certain that a simple google search will find you a licensed, certified, experienced lymphatic massage specialist in your neighborhood. I would also suggest you continue to wear your compression garment. In my experience, compression is essential for optimal results. In my opinion, you should wear your compression garment for 6-8 weeks after liposuction. If you are still swollen after those 6-8 weeks, you will need continued compression. Your compression garments should be tight. If they are loose, you may need a smaller size.

If I were forced to guess, I would not anticipate you needing a tummy tuck. Based on your preoperative pictures, your skin laxity should snap back very well with the liposuction. I will be very surprised if you need a tummy tuck. The fold that you're seeing underneath the belly button may be from a crease of the garment. It'll be important to avoid the crease in the garment by applying either foam or a plastic board. Please consult with your plastic surgeon. Thank you for your question regarding whether you need a tummy tuck after having 360 power-assisted liposuction with renuvion.

I specialize in reconstructive plastic surgery after weight loss. If you have any more questions regarding a tummy tuck, lower body lift, 360 circumferential lower body lift, belt lipectomy, belt abdominoplasty, or belt dermolipectomy please contact my office. Since the body lift is a big procedure, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing the lower body lift. Do your research. Make sure they have performed at least 100 tummy tuck or circumferential lower body lift surgeries and have the before and after pictures to prove it. Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.  If you cannot find an experienced, tummy tuck or lower body lift surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

I recommend waiting 6 months before reaching a final decision. At this time, is appears you would benefit from a tummy tuck in the future.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

It is way too early to ask this question. Wear your compression garment as advised and be careful to lift up your skin to avoid making abdominal creases. After 6 months, then repost your question and photos if you have concerns.