Can I have a Tummy Tuck and Vaser Lipo after Strawberry Laser Lipo?

Question

I am in the process of losing at least 60 pounds. I havehad 360 Lipo a year ago primarily on my back and waistline. I have a large protruding stomach and a lot of fat in my arms. I know I will need a Tummy Tuck and most likely Arm Lift once I achieve my weightless goal. But if I this Strawberry Lipo really does work and could get some inches off these areas now is it worth doing and will getting the Strawberry Lipo affect any future surgeries, in other words is it best to just wait for surgery?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Oeste24. Thank you for your question regarding the use of Strawberry Laser Lipo and its potential impact on future surgical body contouring procedures such as a tummy tuck and Vaser Lipo.

Strawberry Laser Lipo is a non-invasive technique that uses laser energy to temporarily reduce the size of fat cells. It's primarily used for modest fat reduction and to improve body contour in specific areas. Here are several factors to consider regarding your query:

Effectiveness of Strawberry Laser Lipo: This procedure can help reduce inches by targeting superficial fat, but it is generally less effective for significant fat removal compared to traditional liposuction or Vaser Lipo. It’s good for short-term results and smaller areas of concern.

Impact on Future Surgeries: Undergoing Strawberry Laser Lipo should not adversely affect your ability to have more invasive procedures like a tummy tuck or arm lift in the future. However, it is essential to understand that the laser lipo might provide only temporary improvements and may not be as cost-effective if you plan to pursue more extensive surgical options later.

Timing of Procedures: If your primary goal is substantial fat reduction and significant body reshaping, waiting until you are closer to your weight loss goal before undergoing more invasive procedures might be more beneficial. This approach allows your surgeon to accurately assess and address the excess skin and any residual fat deposits effectively.

Planning Your Procedures: Discuss your overall body contouring goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can outline a strategic plan that might include a tummy tuck, arm lift, and any additional liposuction. These plans can be adjusted based on how your body changes as you lose weight and might be better scheduled once your weight has stabilized to maximize the aesthetic results.

Pre-Surgery Considerations: It’s advisable to reach or be near your target weight before undergoing extensive body contouring surgeries, as fluctuations in weight post-surgery can affect the long-term outcomes of these procedures.

In conclusion, while Strawberry Laser Lipo could offer some immediate, less invasive benefits and is unlikely to negatively impact future surgeries, focusing on your long-term goals with more definitive surgical procedures might be a more effective approach to achieving the body contour you desire after significant weight loss. Consult with a plastic surgeon to discuss the best timing and strategies for your surgeries to ensure optimal results.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Wait to have further surgery until you have completed your weight loss goal.  From your description you will likely need other procedures targeting the same areas.  Focus on your diet and exercise program now as well as developing good healthy habits.  Adding procedures as you are in the process of losing weight will give little long term benefit.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

'Strawberry laser lipo'? The name is hilarious if it wasn't so serious. Stop hoping for a magic bullet. You already know what you need (skin removing surgery in addition to liposuction), so don't make things worse by getting an already debunked fad (laser lipo) that has real consequences - severe internal scarring, aka fibrosis. Lose the weight and go to a board certified plastic surgeon, not a cosmetic surgeon pretending to one.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Without seeing pictures, we can’t begin to make an assessment.
Non-surgical approaches to reducing subcutaneous, fat or notoriously unproductive and usually a massive waste of money.
Weight loss patients typically don’t need liposuction.
Successful weight loss usually causes skin laxity and most massive weight loss. Patients need skin surgery more than anything else.
Without seeing pictures that we can’t begin to make an assessment.
Because non-surgical fat removal procedures usually don’t work. They don’t have much effect on future procedures. 
I suggest you have multiple consultations with highly experienced board certified plastic surgeons in your community before having any treatment done.
I recommend patients resist the temptation of making their own assessments and their own treatment plans.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Can I have a Tummy Tuck and Vaser Lipo after Strawberry Laser Lipo?

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Answer: Candidacy for surgery

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Can I have a Tummy Tuck and Vaser Lipo after Strawberry Laser Lipo?

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