Is Liposuction Necessary when Having Tummy Tuck?

This is a very interesting topic. Textbooks have stated that it is risky to perform abdominal liposuction at the same time as a tummy tuck, but recent plastic surgery articles have discounted this. In my practice, I'll liposuction the flanks only with a tummy tuck to help preserve the blood supply to the abdominal skin. The feeling is that extensive liposuction above the belly button could disrupt the blood supply to the skin flap. A little liposuction would probably be fine, but I would be hesitant to perform aggressive liposuction above the belly button at the same time as a tummy tuck. You can always go back later (3-6) months for liposuction after the blood supply has been re-established to the abdominal skin after your tummy tuck.

Thank you for your question regarding whether liposuction is necessary when having a tummy tuck. It’s excellent that you are gathering information to make a well-informed decision.

Liposuction in combination with a tummy tuck must be approached with caution to avoid compromising the blood supply to the operated areas. This is crucial for ensuring proper healing and optimal results. I typically restrict liposuction to the love handles when performing it alongside a tummy tuck. This approach helps in enhancing the contour of the waist while maintaining the safety and integrity of the abdominal skin flap.

The confusion you're experiencing is understandable since practices vary among surgeons. Some may feel comfortable performing liposuction in areas like right under the rib cage and above the belly button, while others might avoid it to minimize risks.

Liposuction can be an effective adjunct to a tummy tuck for removing stubborn fat deposits and refining the body’s contour. However, it is not always necessary. The tummy tuck alone can significantly tighten abdominal muscles and remove excess skin, which might be sufficient depending on your goals and existing body shape.

It's important to discuss your aesthetic goals and any concerns with your plastic surgeon. Asking about their specific techniques and the reasoning behind them, as you plan to do, is a great strategy. Always ensure your surgeon is board-certified and experienced in performing these combined procedures.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Thank you for the question.Liposuction is a tool that is often used during the time of tummy tuck surgery. Different plastic surgeons utilize this tool differently; some are more “aggressive” than others. In my practice, I frequently utilize this tool to treat adipose tissue of the flanks and pubic areas during the tummy tuck procedures.It will not hurt to discuss the pros/cons of liposuctioning with your plastic surgeon; simply ask for his rationale why feels it would be potentially helpful treating the areas you are concerned about.   Best wishes.