Stretch marks on flanks: liposuction?

If the skin has maintained its elasticity,  liposuction in those areas will likely be appropriate.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

I suggest a formal consultation its hard to determine what is best if liposuction alone or liposuction with skin removal is needed.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Thank for your question. One option you might want to consider is SmartLipo. SmartLipo is a variation of the traditional liposuction procedure that can improve results for many people including an added benefit of skin tightening vs traditional liposuction. SmartLipo can also help shorten liposuction recovery times and reduce liposuction risks. For more information, I recommend getting a in person consultation with a board-certified dermatologist.  

Depending on how much liposuction will be done on the flank and hip (so called "muffin top" areas) there will not be much change to the stretch marks usually.  Some narrowing and deepening of the stretch marks may occur if there is a substantial amount of fat removal in these areas, but may not be avoidable in order to have the best reshaping result.
Stretch marks are actually a form of scarring and some of our Tumescent Liposculpture patients do wish to have the stretch marks look less noticeable as well.
We have several laser based treatment options to improve stretch marks whether they are new or have been present for years.

Great question, thanks for posting. A well done tummy tuck with tightening of your muscle wall and removal of extra skin does wonders for you shape. Typically, I recommend adding hip roll liposuction to take care of flank, hip, and lower back fat. This is adequate for most people. and drastically improves their shape. Regarding skin quality, there is no cure for stretch marks except direct removal. If you have lost weight in the past and significant have loose skin all around your torso (tummy and back), sometimes a "body lift", which extends the tummy tuck scar around your waist completely, is needed. In person consultation is best way to get specific recommendations.

Liposuction can improve the areas.  Find a provider experienced in body contouring to discuss all of your options.

Stretch marks that are located below your belly button and between your hip area will be removed with a tummy tuck.  Liposuction will not remove stretch marks, but it may make their appearance less noticeable.  A discussion with your surgeon will be helpful to demonstrate what you can expect from the procedures.

Liposuction at the time of the tummy tuck would be the most common treatment for the fat of the muffin top but will not help stretch marks. For some patients it is better to extend the TT all the way around the waist and surgically remove the fat and the excess skin. You would need an exam to know if that is an option in your case.