Is a tummy tuck better to do before or after liposuction?

Question

I am aware that after a liposuction a tummy tuck would probably be required to resolve pre existing loose and crepey skin. I would therefore like to know is it better to perform a tummy tuck first, so that skin tightening etc can be addressed, prior to liposuction on any left over areas. I have read a couple of articles where surgeons say prefer this method as they more play with stretching and shaping, as well a better healing. I would be grateful for your opinions – many thanks in advance.

Shayne Webb, MD · Answer

I would never perform a tummy tuck first and then perform liposuction regardless of one procedure or a two-staged procedure.  To determine if you needed a staged procedure would depend upon how thick your abdominal flaps are prior to surgery.  If the flaps that would be undermined during the surgery are relatively thin, liposuction on the flaps can be done during the same procedure.  If aggressive liposuction is needed to address thick abdominal flaps, then a staged procedure with liposuction first would be in order.  The only area where this matters is where tissue will be undermined (i.e. the anterior abdomen between the sternum and umbilicus).  All other areas can be addressed aggressively without worrying about tissue compromise, and therefore can be addressed just as definitively during a combined surgery.  I hope this helps.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Liposuction before the tummy tuck will result in thinner flaps and a slightly better result for the tummy tuck.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

It's very common to have liposuction and a tummy tuck procedure at the same time. The tummy and flanks are both common areas to treat during a tummy tuck procedure. Liposuction is typically performed first, and then the tummy tuck procedure is performed. Consultation with your plastic surgeon will help determine which procedures are right for you.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck will include thinning out the fat layer in front of the abdomen, so I assume you are considering lipo in other areas. Depending on how many areas and how much lipo, it is usually all done at the same time. There is no reason to have liposuction on the abdomen before having a tummy tuck.

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. Tummy tuck and liposuction can be easily performed together. This way, you will save time and (most likely) money instead of performing them separately.
A tummy tuck offers the most effective way to correct loose skin and muscle separation in addition to eliminating excess fat. Liposuction will also remove fat, but it can't address flabby, hanging skin that typically persists after weight loss. For this reason, many patients who have experienced a massive weight loss or recent pregnancy tend to opt for a tummy tuck. This procedure can also be combined with liposuction for maximum effect. 
The bottom line is a full tummy tuck will not only remove excess fatty tissue, but also eliminate excess skin and correct abdominal muscles that have been separated and weakened by lack of physical activity or pregnancy. 
An in-person exam with a board certified plastic surgeon is always the best way to fully assess your needs and address your concerns. Best of luck!

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  An in-person exam would be the best way to advise you.  Generally, I would recommend liposuction before a tummy tuck.  This will decrease the thickness of the skin flaps and may help increase the amount of skin removed.  In some cases, you may be able  to have both procedures performed simultaneously depending on how much fat you have in abdominal skin.  Once you have performed a tummy tuck, it is generally not advisable to liposuction the area, as you may be left with more loose skin.  Be sure to address your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon.   Best wishes.

Gordon M. Telepun, MD · Answer

Depending on your exam you made need both at different surgical settings.  It can be risky to do aggressive liposuction at the same time as a standard tummy tuck.  There is risk for skin necrosis.  Do some research on that.I have done these both ways, either one being first, with the second procedure following when there is complete healing and normal blood supply again.  Good luck.

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

Liposuction is often done along with tummy tuck at the same time. Sequencing is not necessary.  However patient needs to be suitable candidate and of normal weight.

Jules Walters, MD · Answer

Please send pictures for better answer. The better option is to do the combined procedure. If you have liposuction first, then scaring from lipo will make the tummy tuck harder. If you do the tummy tuck first, liposuction will leave some extra skin. I offer my patients combined procedure.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

More often these would be done at the same setting, but without photos it is most difficult to make any specific suggestions. Please consider reposting this question with photos and comment regarding liposuction target areas. All the best.

Is a tummy tuck better to do before or after liposuction?

Answers (13)

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