Do I need a tummy tuck?

From what I can see, a tummy tuck would not help you. Your upper abdominal muscles could be tightened, but this would not give you a flat abdomen. A tummy tuck removes excess skin. Unfortunately, there is no non invasive technique to improve the contour of your upper abdomen.

Thank you for your question, Dr Red Foxx.

Based on your history and pictures, most plastic surgeons would agree that you do not need a tummy tuck. You do not have much excess abdominal skin or fat, and your anterior abdominal muscle wall appears to be flat and intact. Therefore, if you want to reduce the bulging in your upper abdomen, abdominal liposuction would be a less intrusive and less expensive option.

Specifically, VASER liposuction is highly effective. VASER liposuction uses ultrasound technology to precisely target and remove fat, leading to better skin retraction and a smoother contour compared to traditional liposuction.

Regarding your breast reduction procedure, it is unlikely that it will make your stomach more noticeable. The focus will be on your chest, and the overall effect will likely be more balanced.

Please consult with several board-certified plastic surgeons to confirm the best procedure for your specific needs. However, it is likely that most will suggest VASER abdominal liposuction over a tummy tuck.

Good luck with your procedures.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Thank you for your inquiry! An abdominoplasty is liposuction of abdominal fat, tightening the abdominal muscle, a monsplasty and excess skin removal. We would love to help you reach your goals. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Given your history of liposuction and pregnancy, a tummy tuck can effectively address diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles) which is likely causing the upper stomach bulge. This procedure tightens the muscles and flattens the abdomen, providing a more contoured look. While a less invasive option might include targeted exercises or non-surgical treatments, these are often less effective for significant muscle separation. It's also worth noting that post-breast reduction, your stomach may become more noticeable due to the change in proportions. Discuss your concerns and options with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best approach for your goals.

Dear Dr Red Foxx,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

It is hard to tell from your photos, especially with the high position of the waist band on the middle photo, what is going on with your skin and fat distribution. I do see the flank fat, that can be improved by liposuction and renuvion. If excess skin is not an issue, you may be a candidate for lipo only treatment, such as air sculpt or other board certified plastic surgeon.

Thanks so much for your question,

Deciding whether you need a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a personal decision that should be made based on your specific goals, concerns, and medical condition. Pregnancy or weight fluctuations can lead to diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles), which a tummy tuck can repair.

A tummy tuck can create a flatter, firmer abdominal profile, which can enhance body contours and improve self-confidence.

Consult with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: A professional can assess your specific situation, discuss your goals, and determine if a tummy tuck is appropriate for you. They can also explain the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes.

Sincerely,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

A full tummy tuck would be the only way to repair upper abdominal muscle separation. With a breast reduction, the upper bulge may become more noticeable since at the moment, it is being balanced out with the size of your breasts.

Yes, a tummy tuck with liposuction can leave you looking very snatched with a flat belly! I dont think there is an easy fix for this. Hope that helps

Pictures do not show your entire abdomen and the pants are pushing the lower abdomen in, so it's hard to see the entire abdomen in a correct position. In general the upper abdominal bulge comes from the visceral fat that is inside the abdomen behind the muscle. It only goes away with weight loss. You may have some muscle separation too from the pregnancy but if you have too much of the visceral fat, the upper abdomen may still be protruding because the fat is pushing the muscle out.