Tummy tuck and liposuction - Can they be performed at the same time?

Question

I am planning to have a tummy tuck done later this year. My surgeon told me that they do not perform liposuction on the upper flap. They said that liposuction can be done later down the line. Is this coming practice or just a more conservative approach? I see some surgeons offer liposuction to the abdomen at the time of tummy tuck possibly using newer, liposuction tech technologies. I would much rather not undergo a second procedure. It is quite costly and the downtime is not desirable. Also liposuction may require general anesthesia again, which I would prefer to avoid.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck and liposuction can be done at the same time. However, you cannot liposuct the upper part of the tummy tuck flap because it may interfere with the blood supply and the flap may die. The surgeon can liposuct other areas of the body or the flanks, if necessary.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. As a Total Definer plastic surgeon, I liposuction the whole abdomen with my tummy tucks. It is a myth that one cannot liposuction the upper abdomen. The surgeons who still believe that, should read the aesthetic plastic surgery literature, upgrade their techniques and improve their techniques. I routinely do VASER liposuction 360 degrees with my tummy tucks to create youthful, athletic bodies with an hourglass figure. See a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in advance body sculpting techniques for an in person consultation/evaluation. Although there's nothing wrong what your surgeon suggested to you, this is accomplished in one surgery. Other reasons why one might choose to do it this way is because their BMI is high (not a good candidate for a tummy tuck anyways) or they have limited funds they want to invest into themselves. See other surgeons for consultation. Good luck.

Tummy tuck and liposuction - Can they be performed at the same time?

Answers (2)