Would a lipo procedure be an option if I don't want a tummy tuck? (photo)

Question

Hi, I believe that I need a tummy tuck to address my stomach area. I had another procedure where I did not scar well and am confident that I will similarly scar for the tummy tuck. I hate the existing scars and would be dissatisfied with a similar hip to hip scar. I think lipo 360 or vaser lipo would help but am concerned about skin laxity. Would a lipo procedure be an option or should I just keep trying diet and exercise?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

. Liposuction, including techniques like lipo 360 or Vaser lipo, can be effective for removing excess fat and contouring the body. However, it is less effective for addressing significant skin laxity. If skin laxity is a major concern, liposuction alone might not provide the desired results, as it does not tighten the skin.

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is often recommended when both excess fat and significant skin laxity are present, as it removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles. However, if scarring is a major concern for you, it's important to discuss this with your surgeon. They can provide detailed information on what to expect regarding scarring and discuss potential scar management strategies.

Before making a decision, it might be beneficial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your specific situation, discuss your goals, and help you weigh the pros and cons of each procedure. They can also discuss non-surgical options that might be suitable for your needs. In the meantime, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with diet and exercise is always beneficial.

Marco A. Pelosi III, MD, FACOG, FACS · Answer

Skin has the ability to shrink and contract with liposuction and thermal technologies (vaser, renuvion/j-plasma, body tite, etc), but when it's as loose as the skin in your photos, it won't shrink enough to look smooth or even remotely aesthetic. Tummy tuck is the only solution. However, the scar can be placed low under the bikini line so that it will be covered by most bikinis. Be aware that different parts of the body can scar differently and unless you have a keloid tendency, the scars that you currently dislike might not be predictive of how your tummy tuck scars would heal.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

In my experience, many similar patients avoid tummy tuck scar with Vaser ultrasound 360 liposuction.

Skin will tighten and improve, however, there will likely be some minor laxity afterwards. Most patients tolerate this ti avoid the tummy tuck scar and recovery.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures is recommended to confirm you are a candidate as well as discuss your options and expectations.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on your post photos, you have too much excess skin for any type of liposuction to improve the result therefore, your scarring would be a trade-off to having a flat tummy. Best of virtual consult with to determine which liposuction techniques versus liposuction with possible extended mini tummy, tuck or full tummy tuck is indicated.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, once you have excess skinned, you have excess skin. If liposuction is performed regardless of the method used, you will still have the same amount of skin present. The only procedure that may give you 30 to 50% improvement in the tissue tightening is Renuvion. Renuvion is usually combined with any of the methods which reduce the amount of fat in any given area, be it power assist liposuction or in combination with ultrasound assisted liposuction. A tummy tuck in my opinion will be your best solution with the flattest tummy as the end result.

Would a lipo procedure be an option if I don't want a tummy tuck? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Hanging lower, abdominal skin with fat Lipo only or surgery of a tummy tuck?

Answer: Hanging lower, abdominal skin with fat Lipo only or surgery of a tummy tuck?

Answer: Tummy, tuck or other procedures

Answer: Tummy, tuck or other procedures

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Would a lipo procedure be an option if I don't want a tummy tuck? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Hanging lower, abdominal skin with fat Lipo only or surgery of a tummy tuck?

Answer: Hanging lower, abdominal skin with fat Lipo only or surgery of a tummy tuck?

Answer: Tummy, tuck or other procedures

Answer: Tummy, tuck or other procedures

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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