No Lipo during tummy tuck; why?

Hello,Thank you for the question. I often find that Liposuction in conjunction with a Tummy Tuck is beneficial. There is a limit to how much liposuction can be done and where, however these are some of the reasons to consider it: *Better shaping of the abdomen: combining liposuction with a tummy tuck can achieve a more uniform contour of the treated area.*Less postoperative complications: precise surgical technique allows for the preservation of at least 80% of the abdominal wall’s blood supply due to fewer blood vessels affected, and the majority of lymphatic vessels are also preserved.*Reduced chance of postoperative numbness: less trauma to the targeted area and less disruption in blood supply mean that the risk of numbness is reduced.*Smaller scar: while abdominoplasty alone tends to require a large incision, the length of the scar can often be shortened to some degree by applying liposuction. Liposuction only requires an incision just large enough for a cannula, typically just a few millimetres in length. Through this incision the removal of fat is possible without more extensive incisions, minimizing scarring.*Minimal bruising, pain and swelling with an overall quicker recovery timeThe individual patient, their health picture and their expectations will all factor into the surgical plan. I recommend that you meet with one than one Plastic Surgeon for consultation and carefully consider the information you are given to determine what approach will best meet your goals. Be sure to seek a board certified Plastic Surgeon.All the best

Thank you for your excellent question.  Liposuction can be successfully performed with a tummy tuck but the danger lies in where it is to be performed.  Liposuction of the same tissues that are raised or operated on during a tummy tuck (the upper middle portion of your stomach) could compromise blood flow resulting in a poor healing or an open wound.  Liposuction to the flanks, waist, or back could be done with little risk.  Hope this helps.

There are two aspects to your question:Many plastic surgeons will offer liposuction in areas adjacent to the tummy tuck, and believe that it can be done safely.Liposuction of the flap, that is the upper abdominal skin that is lifted in order to stretch and cover the lower abdomen where skin and fat was removed, is thought by many to be risky. When there is fat that needs to be removed in this area, I just remove it by cutting it off to make the flap thinner. That leaves the remaining fat layer undisturbed by the liposuction and I have found it to be quite safe.

Certain areas are very safe to do liposuction on during a tummy tuck. Such of the flanks and hips. However, suctioning the front of the abdomen is controversial. Some surgeons will do none, some will modify their tummy tuck and be aggressive with the liposuction, some will only perform a slight bit. It all depends upon the technique used, the surgeon's training and experience, etc. You will find answers all over the board on this question, and it is best to rely on the specific experience and technique of a surgeon you have come to trust.Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

I no longer perform liposuction to the tummy or back/bra area at the same time as tummy tuck. It can cause healing problems for the skin, fluid accumulation, increased risks for overall complications,etc. I usually recommend to have the liposuction as a separate procedure later, if needed.I will perform liposuction of the flanks (love handles) and/or the mons pubis at the time of a tummy tuck.An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to discuss your options and expectations. This would confirm if you are a candidate.

A tummy tuck and liposuction, aka lipoabdominoplasty, can be done. However, each one has the potential to diminish the blood supply to the remaining skin. So these should be undertaken by someone familiar with the procedure. Otherwise, there is potential for significant complications. 

Liposuction is performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck to help improve body contours. There are limitations to how much adipose tissue can be removed safely. Also, excessive liposuction done at the time of tummy tuck may compromise blood flow and wound healing. My best suggestion: seek consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. Then, learn about options, and the pros/cons/risks/complications associated with all options. You may find the attached link, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Because of blood supply issues to your abdomen, one cannot do an aggressive liposuction on the abdominal flap.  However, your flanks can be lipoaspirated.  I think you have received good information.