Can Liposuction Reduce Sagging Skin and Fat Left After C-section?

Question

I had two C-Sections back to back 4 years ago. This left fat and sagging skin on my abdomen and fat on my hips. Is it okay to undergo liposuction for this? If so, which type would be best?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on your description of having fat and sagging skin on your abdomen following two C-sections, liposuction alone may not be the most effective solution for your concerns. While liposuction is excellent for removing localized fat deposits, it does not address excess skin, which is a common issue after pregnancy, especially following C-sections.

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) might be the more appropriate procedure for you. A tummy tuck not only removes excess skin and fat but also tightens the abdominal muscles that may have been stretched or separated during pregnancy, a condition known as diastasis recti. This comprehensive approach can significantly improve the contour of your abdomen, resulting in a flatter, more toned stomach area.

Difference Between Liposuction and Tummy Tuck:

Liposuction: This procedure is primarily used to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body. It involves inserting a thin tube (cannula) through small incisions to break up and suction out fat. However, it does not address skin laxity or muscle separation. It's best for individuals with good skin elasticity who are close to their ideal body weight.
Tummy Tuck: This procedure is more invasive than liposuction and is designed to remove both excess fat and skin. It also includes tightening the abdominal muscles if needed. The incision for a tummy tuck is usually made along the lower abdomen, allowing the removal of excess skin and the redraping of the remaining skin for a smoother contour. This procedure is particularly beneficial for those who have undergone significant changes to their abdominal area, such as after pregnancy or substantial weight loss.
Given your situation with sagging skin and abdominal fat post-C-section, a tummy tuck would likely offer you the best results. It's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your specific needs and recommend the best course of action based on your body type, health, and aesthetic goals. They can also discuss the possibility of combining both procedures if there are areas with excess fat that might benefit from liposuction along with the tummy tuck for optimal results.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is hard to provided with a valid medical opinion without photos.  I would suggest to be treated by board certificated plastic surgeon with experience in this procedure, to get the best desired results.
Kind Regards,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very possible that liposuction can reduce the #sagging skin following a #c-section. However, it is difficult to assess what would be best for you via online photos. An ideal  #candidate for Vaser Liposuction is a person in good health who seeks a minimally invasive way to remove stubborn fat with less downtime than traditional #liposuction.  Vaser is ideal for those seeking improved definition of muscles and contouring.  Those who seek increased sculpting of are ideal vaser lipo candidates.
Depending on the amount of excess skin, a tummy tuck may also be something to consider. Over the years, surgeons have improved procedures and found ways to eliminate the need for #drains commonly used in a #tummy #tuck or #abdominoplasty, and a variety of other operations. I have found that most of my patients do very well with the exception of those have large areas of liposuction or lipo-abdominoplasty. Any extra fluid may be reabsorbed back into the body without the use of drains.  I may use drains on a case by case basis for these patients. If you go to a plastic #surgeon who uses drains, or if your situation requires drains, they usually stay in 3-5 days but may be required to remain in longer. The use of tissue #glue is to adhere the abdominal #skin to the #muscle. It is a new option and alternative to sutures in a tummy tuck. Vaser #liposuction may also be applied depending on your situation and if deemed a candidate to combine both procedures. Your procedures should always be performed by a #PlasticSurgeon who is board-certified and has a great deal of experience specializing in cosmetic #surgery. You will then greatly improve your chances of getting the result you desire, and, without the need for a revision surgery. It is suggested that you look at before and after photos of the surgeons actual patients, and read patient reviews. Seeking the right doctor and gathering all of this information will help you make a well-informed decision

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Online consultants will be much specific to without viewing photographs or in-person evaluation.   However, some general thoughts may be helpful to you.

For most patients who have had pregnancies and/or weight loss a full abdominoplasty is necessary to achieve the desired results. The tummy tuck operation serves to re approximate muscles that may have spread with pregnancy and/or weight gain/loss, remove  "excess" skin/adipose tissue (often overhanging C-section scars)  and further contour the abdominal wall, with tools such as liposuction surgery.

Generally speaking, the “ideal” patient for tummy tuck surgery is one who has completed pregnancies, is psycho socially/emotionally/financially stable, has an excellent social support system surrounding him/her, is capable of arranging enough recovery time, does not smoke and who has reached a long-term stable weight.

Of course, there are downsides (including a longer scar and probably a longer recovery time) but for most patients the benefits outweigh the downsides.

You will also hear/read about mini tummy tuck surgery.  In my opinion/experience, the mini tummy tuck is an operation that produces very limited results and is very rarely indicated. It involves a shorter incision but does not address the majority of the abdominal wall issues present for most patients who present consultation. For example, the area of skin excised is quite small. The abdominal wall musculature is addressed below the umbilicus leaving the upper number wall potentially lax. The appearance of the umbilicus is not necessarily addressed sufficiently.
Again, for the vast majority of patients who have had pregnancies and/or weight loss a full abdominoplasty is necessary to achieve the desired results. When the time is right, seek consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience helping patients achieve the types of outcomes you would be pleased with. You may find the attached link/video, dedicated to tummy tuck surgery concerns, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Big Mom,
You can have liposuction but this will not correct your wrinkling skin. Since your skin and abdominal muscles have been stretched by pregnancies then an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) will give you the correction you desire.
Good luck.

Can Liposuction Reduce Sagging Skin and Fat Left After C-section?

Answers (10)

Answer: Can Liposuction Reduce Sagging Skin and Fat Left After C-section?

Answer: Can Liposuction Reduce Sagging Skin and Fat Left After C-section?

Answer: Tummy Tuck

Answer: Tummy Tuck

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Can Liposuction Reduce Sagging Skin and Fat Left After C-section?

Answers (10)

Answer: Can Liposuction Reduce Sagging Skin and Fat Left After C-section?

Answer: Can Liposuction Reduce Sagging Skin and Fat Left After C-section?

Answer: Tummy Tuck

Answer: Tummy Tuck

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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