Will Tummy Tuck Take Care of Love Handles and Excessive Fat That's on my Sides?

A tummy tuck alone will not necessarily address the excess fat on the sides of your body (love handles or flanks). Typically this is treated with liposuction of the flanks at the same time as the tummy tuck which enhances the overall contour of your torso and waist area. Most patients who undergo a tummy tuck surgery will benefit from liposuction of the flanks simultaneously.

A board certified plastic surgeon will be able to examine you in detail and determine the best approach for your love handle area.

Best wishes,

Dr. Bruno

Thank you for your question. A personal exam and consultation is always best.That said it is very common during tummy tuck to use liposuction to decrease the size of the love handles and this usually produces a nice result.Be sure to consult a plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, experienced in your procedure, and who has an excellent reputation in your community.

Tummy tuck surgery is a great way to help shape your midsection, flatten your tummy and get rid of excess skin and stretch marks.  I order to remove the "love handle" areas at the same time your plastic surgeon will likely need to perform additional liposuction or extend the incisions further to the sides to treat this region effectively.  Make sure you visit a board certified plastic surgeon and express your concern over those areas as well.  He/she will be able to tell you what more can be done to best elliminate your love handles.