Liposuction in the stomach and back now lumpy. What can I do to smooth this out? My provider suggested tummy tuck.

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. It’s tough to say what would be the ideal solution for you, especially without photos. An in person evaluation is always best to determine the best option.

Thank you for sharing your concerns about the appearance of your abdomen and flanks following liposuction.

While liposuction can be an effective way to reduce localized fat deposits, it's important to keep in mind that it is not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise routine. In some cases, excess skin or sagging may occur after liposuction, especially if a significant amount of fat has been removed. This can sometimes require additional procedures such as a tummy tuck or other body contouring procedures.

In your specific case, it sounds like you may be experiencing some irregularities or dimpling in your flank area, which can sometimes occur after liposuction. While this can be frustrating, there are options available to address this issue. One possibility is a non-surgical treatment such as radiofrequency or ultrasound therapy, which can help smooth out the skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Another option is to undergo a tummy tuck or other body contouring procedure to address any excess skin or sagging that may be contributing to the irregularities in your flank area. It's important to discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your individual situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

Thank you for your question, and I wish you the best of luck in achieving your aesthetic goals.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Photos would be very helpful here, as would in-person examination. Generally, for irregularities after liposuction, revision liposuction (sometimes with energy such as ultrasound or radiofrequency) is helpful. For skin excess created by liposuction, skin excision is often necessary, which in the case of the abdomen would be a tummy tuck.

Hi mia418,
Tummy tuck will generally remove the skin and fat of the lower abdomen, between your pubic hairline and the umbilicus. If this is the area where your lumpy-bumpy areas are, then yes it could remove them.
Please note that the tightening of the skin through a combination of undermining to the rib edges and sitting you up in bed can make upper abdomen lumpy-bumpy areas more noticeable.
These would be important things to discuss with your plastic surgeon.
Hope this helps.
Best,Christopher Pannucci MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Hi! Fixing the lumps with a TT is possible because it would get rid of excess skin and would stretch out the remaining ing skin, but it is impossible to say if this is the best procedure for you without at least some photos. Try posting a follow up question with some front and side view photos for more specific answers.

Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Dear mia418,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

You did not post photos, so I would refer you back to your surgeon to discuss your options. Liposuction does not remove excess skin.

An in person evaluation would be needed to know for sure, but a tummy tuck may be the correct solution. This will remove excess skin and fat as well as correct abdominal wall laxity. This will smooth out the contour irregularities left by the lipo. Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Mia,
Photos or a physical exam is necessary to accurately answer your questions.
First, muscles do not 'turn into fat'. Without working out, the muscle shrink (atrophy) and just like with losing weight, the skin may not be as tight or sag. The same issue may occur with weight loss and skin laxity.
After experiencing wrinkling or lumpiness post liposuction in the front of the abdomen, the options available are slim.
Do nothing
Morpheus (a combination of minimally invasive micro-needling and radiofrequency)
Revision liposuction (but only in select cases)
Abdominoplasty

Best wishes,
Dr. Taranow

Sometimes I need to throw out the reality ball.

If you went to a "provider" for your lipo you didn't see an expert plastic surgeon.

Muscle doesn't turn into fat and fat doesn't turn into muscle.

My concern is for you and others that read these posts. Don't be fooled. Always get expert opinions from certified surgeons. If it is too easy it is not real.

Submit some pictures so we can properly guide you.

Good luck.