Does a tummy tuck include lipo of the flanks? If not, how much is it for liposuction? (Photo)

Thank you for the question.
Generally speaking, liposuction is a tool that is often used during the time of tummy tuck surgery. Different plastic surgeons utilize this tool differently; some are more “aggressive” than others. In my practice, I frequently utilize this tool to treat adipose tissue of the flanks and pubic areas during tummy tuck procedures. There are no additional charges for this "tool".
Care must be taken during tummy tuck surgery to avoid excessive "trauma" to the blood supply of the abdominal wall flap;  for example, if too much liposuction surgery is performed at the time of  tummy tuck surgery, it may be a cause of compromise of blood flow and resulting wound healing problems...
 The "extended" tummy tuck surgery refers to an extension of the abdominoplasty incision to the flanks/lower back area; this operation is helpful when patients wish to improve the appearance of the sides (flanks)/lower back areas. In other words, the operation extends from the anterior abdominal wall to the flanks and back areas,  often involving additional skin/tissue excision and liposuction surgery.
In my practice, I recommend the extended tummy tuck to patients who have significant "excess" of adipose tissue and/or skin of the flank and back areas, where liposuction surgery alone will not suffice.  Patients who have lost skin elasticity in these areas, have a significant amount of diet/exercise adipose issue in these areas, and/or who wish to wear low riding jeans after surgery (and do not want to have a "muffin top" when they bend sideways) are potentially good candidates for the extended tummy tuck operation.
 
 
 I would suggest you spend additional time discussing your goals, plans, and expectations directly with your plastic surgeon, in front of a full length mirror.  Working together you will come up with the best plan to achieve the desired outcome.
  I hope this helps.
Best wishes. 

Hello and thank you for your
question.   In my practice liposuction is always included in the cost of a tummy tuck.  Based on your photograph, you are a great candidate for a tummy tuck
with liposuction.  This can be done
through a low and short incision, all completely below the bikini line.  The belly button can be designed to look
natural and have no scars on the exterior.  
Your muscles can also be plicated resulting in a flat abdomen.  Cost for a tummy tuck varies based on geographic region and surgeon expertise.  Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon