Do I need a flankplasty to make my love handles look better after my tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I had a Breast reduction & Tummy tuck May 18, I feel my flanks are just excess skin. I run and exercise but can't lose the love handles. Also can I still be swollen after 4 months??

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear bramirezrnAlthough I agree that there is still residual swelling at 4 months, I think you can significantly improve your contour with a combination of circumferential liposuction and possibly excision of flank skin depending on your skin quality. Lower back fat deposition is an important component of shaping a torso. I think you would be best served by waiting 6-9 months from your surgery and then, if you still wanted contour improvement, proceeding with further surgery.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question and photos. Yes, it is possible to still have a little residual swelling 4 months after your procedure. I recommend that you wait until 6 months to assess your results and visit with your Plastic Surgeon at that time to discuss possible, additional liposuction and/or excision.All the best

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.The tummy tuck without liposuction of the flanks doesn't really address the love handles.You may need a revision with liposuction or could possibly try coolsculpting for that area The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns after tummy tuck surgery. Yes, some degree of swelling can still be present even four months after surgery. At this point, I would suggest ongoing time/patience before you make any decisions whether or not to proceed with revisionary surgery. In the longer-term, based on your photographs and description of goals, it is likely that you will benefit from additional skin excision and liposuction surgery. I would suggest that you continue to discuss your questions/concerns/goals with your plastic surgeon in a calm/constructive fashion, in front of a full-length mirror.  Also, make sure that you continue to maintain your goals with diet/exercise/healthy lifestyle. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with longer-term.

Do I need a flankplasty to make my love handles look better after my tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (4)