Is it possible to have a tummy tuck for loose skin after lipo burns? (Photo)

Question

I had liposuction done in 2020 and ended up with rregularities. 5 years later in 2025 i decided to try and get it dixed with another lipo procedure. The procedure did not go well and i ended up with burns on my stomach. It prevented me from wearing a compression garment. Now i have the burn scars and more fibroses. Would it be safe to get a tummy tuck to correct loose skin or is there a risk?

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

In my opinion, a tummy tuck may still be possible after liposuction burns and fibrosis, but it should be approached more cautiously than a routine case. The key issue is whether the skin and soft tissue have fully healed and have reliable blood supply. Prior burns, scar tissue, and repeat liposuction can increase the risk of wound healing problems, contour irregularity, skin loss, or thicker scarring, so an in-person exam is especially important before deciding.
From the photo, a tummy tuck could likely improve loose lower abdominal skin and may remove some of the lowest damaged skin if it falls within the planned excision. It may not fully correct upper abdominal burn scars or deeper fibrosis, and aggressive liposuction at the same time may not be advisable. I would usually want the burns completely mature, no open areas, stable scars, and a careful surgical plan that preserves blood supply, with the understanding that a staged or more conservative operation may be safer.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear erok198,

based on your photos, you look like a good candidate for a TT. Full tummy tuck should tighten your abdominal muscles and remove the excess skin. Flanks liposuction would give you a better shape. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon because only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Yes, it would be safe to get a tummy tuck at this time. This would be the best treatment for your abdominal irregularities. Some of the skin scarring will also be removed at that time. I would discuss with your plastic surgeon whether fat grafting would also be indicated.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photograph. The scarring underneath your skin which resulted from your 2 prior liposuction procedures will tether and restrict your skin stretching and flattening out if you have a tummy tuck. You may get some improvement in the irregularities of your skin, although a smooth abdominal contour may not be achieved.   Best wishes.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hello, 
Thank you for the question and photo.  I’m sorry you went through that, burns and fibrosis after liposuction can make recovery and future procedures much more complicated. A tummy tuck can sometimes help with loose skin and contour irregularities after liposuction, but in your situation, there are some important risks and considerations that should be carefully evaluated by a specialist before deciding.  I recommend you meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon and have an in-person evaluation.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

It is possible to do a tummy tuck. However, you do not have a lot of excess skin. The tummy tuck can be done to raise the flap of skin up and it will smooth out the contour deformities but you may end up with the umbilicus scar located about halfway between your new umbilicus and the pubic bone. This scar may be riding somewhat higher. Most likely your tattoos will be removed at the time as well.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for the question. You should be evaluated for a TT, because from the photos your issues are skin-related, which a TT should improve. 
I wish you the best. 
Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACSDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonHouston, TX.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, scar tissue can be difficult and cannot be totally removed. Revision procedures risk more scar tissue.

The fibrosis can be improved, but not made totally smooth with a tummy tuck. Some residual lumps are likely to persist, but should be better.

You do not have a lot of lose skin and scar would be trade off. Unfortunately, there are no other options such as steroid injections, that will offer good results.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to further discuss your options and expectations.

Brandon Elnekaveh, MD · Answer

It's possible to do a tummy tuck if you have loose skin. Most of the irregularities are towards the bottom so they should come out. Best of luck!

Is it possible to have a tummy tuck for loose skin after lipo burns? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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