Can skin be too thick for liposuction?

Question

Hello, My surgeon suctioned too much fat from the lowest part of my back which makes the rest of it look too straight. I complained it and asked for a revision but he told me that a lipo around the middle of my back is very difficult due to my "thick skin" around this area. I didn't believe him then and don't do it now. Am I wrong? I mean he was able to suction the lower part of my back why not the rest? I am thankful for every help!!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello.
Great question. I am sorry for your post op difficulties. However, images and or a personal examination in order to properly evaluate your concerns. Please visit a board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed surgical plan to achieve your desired results.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The back does have thick skin and not everyone will get a flat back because of the thick skin. However, liposuction can be done above and at and below the bra line in the back as needed.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

This mistake can be corrected using high definition VASER liposuction. The thickness of the skin should not affect the procedure. The definitive correction for liposuction deformities requires the advanced technology of ultrasound assisted VASER liposuction. As an official trainer of VASER liposuction, I encounter suboptimal liposuction outcome referrals weekly. VASER liposuction has been the only modality that has consistently corrected liposuction caused deformities. VASER liposuction ensures a smooth contour regardless of severity of contour irregularities by virtue of being able to remove any and all remaining fat comprehensively and uniformly. Finally, when skin redundancy irregularities are observed, Renuvion technology can be simultaneously applied to tighten your skin to optimize your overall contour outcome. A Skype or FaceTime consultation with a VASER specialist will help you get an accurate recommendation and pricing. 
Respectfully, 
Arian Mowlavi MD, FACS
Realself 100 Hall of Fame Inductee

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It’s true that the skin on the back especially the upper back is the sickest in the body.Liposuction has nothing to do with skin but rather subcutaneous fat which is below the skin layer. I do complete back liposuction and almost every patient who comes in for abdominal liposuction. I typically view the torso as a single and atomic unit and treated to completion which includes the back and under arm area‘s. When the entire back is not treated patients are sometimes left wedge shaped with an unnatural fat distribution. You can see pictures of back liposuction posted on my real self profile.I’m not going to speak I’ll be half of another doctors comfort level in doing liposuction in different anatomic areas. In my practice I treat the entire back on a regular basis. In fact I encourage patients to have their entire back treated as part of treating a “full torso”. That doesn’t mean other plastic surgeons have the same view nor that they should do procedures you’re not comfortable with or feel or not appropriate.Best, Mats Hagstrom MD

Can skin be too thick for liposuction?

Answers (4)

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