Will a Tummy Tuck Without Lipo Still Give Me the Best Results? (photo)

Some surgeons perform a Tummy Tuck as primarily a "cut it out" only procedure, and others will quote out liposuction and contouring of the hips and lower back as a separate charge. I'd suggest calling back your surgeon's office to be clear on what has been recommended.

From what I can tell from your picture, I would most certainly be performing a significant amount of liposuction in the tummy (abdominal) area as well as at the hips and waistline and possibly the mons pubic area.

It is likely that a comprehensive Tummy Tuck such as I have described would be a dramatic transformation and rejuvenation of the lower trunk area.

Hope this helps,

Nick Slenkovich, MD FACS

Thank you for your question and the photo.

Liposuction can be combined in creative ways with tummy tuck as long as the plastic surgeon knows the limitations and stays within those safe limits.  I frequently perform liposuction of the lower flanks at the same time as tummy tuck.  This prevents a wide, square look from a flat tummy and full flanks that weren't liposuctioned.

Another procedure to consider is the lipoabdominoplasty. It is becoming more popular and can give excellent results. You may or may not be a candidate with the upper midline scar that you have.

To best know what is right for you, see 2-3 board-certified plastic surgeons for a complete evaluation to make sure that you are a good candidate for tummy tuck and that it is safe for you to have surgery.

I hope this helps.

The majority of my tummy tucks include the liposuction of the flanks.  The tummy tuck alone will address only the front of your tummy as liposuction will sculpt the flank area giving a more esthetically pleasing result.  Be sure to ask your surgeon questions and it is always a good idea to ask to see before and after photos .  It is also important that you feel comfortable with your surgeon.  In my practice we have the ability to offer patients the opportunity to speak with another patient who previously had the same procedure, a patient advocate.  Talking to those who have already experienced surgery is one of the best ways to pick a surgeon.