Does a Tummy Tuck Remove Any Fat?

With a tummy tuck a large portion of skin is removed as well as a large layer of fat under that skin. The layer of fat removed is usually about an inch in thickness.

The most common reason patients seek having the Tummy Tuck procedure is to get rid of the bulge in their belly and to tighten the abdominal wall. Lower abdominal fat is addressed as needed during the procedure. The excess skin and muscles are also tightened. This leaves the patient with a defined and tightened abdominal contour. Some patients even state that their stomach looks better post-operatively than it did even before they had children.


To learn more, please visit our page on potential complications of a tummy tuck procedure.

The excess skin and fat of the lower abdomen will be removed during a traditional tummy tuck. The abdominal wall will also be tightened during the procedure, giving you a flatter profile. Your lateral thigh will not see much change unless you undergo an extended tummy tuck; discuss this in detail with your plastic surgeon before surgery.

Best wishes,

Dr.Bruno

Part of the tummy tuck procedure is to completely remove the lower abdominal tissue - skin and fat.  The problem is often the upper abdominal fat, which is risky to aggressively liposuction at the time of the procedure and may need to be done later.  Regarding a thigh lift, it is best not to expect too much in this regard, since abdominoplasties are not intended to lift the thighs and will likely not have an impact on this area.

A tummy tuck (*bdominoplasty) tightens skin, repairs muscle separation if necessary, and any localized fat in the abdominal area. It does not remove internal abdominal fat which fortunately usually responds to exercise. Lipo to other areas such as the thighs could be added.