Can I have liposuction at the same time as a tummy tuck?

Oftentimes, when a patient comes in for a cosmetic consultation regarding weakened abdominal muscles, excess skin, or sagging skin, the issue of liposuction for exercise-resistant fat and unwanted fat is also raised. At the time of the consultation, we will evaluate the abdominal wall, belly fat, abdominal skin, and loose skin in the flanks and hips to determine if a tummy tuck with liposuction will better repair separated abdominal muscles and excess fat.

Depending on what is seen during your exam, a combination of surgical and non-surgical options may be recommended. A tummy tuck and liposuction may be recommended at the same time if you have recently experienced significant weight loss or if tummy tuck techniques like the mini tummy tuck or full tummy tuck cannot correctly remove fat. There are certain areas along the body, such as the flanks and hips, where liposuction can be done safely to improve excess fat and provide optimal tummy tuck results.

At the same time, there are certain areas along the trunk where body contouring procedures are considered a “danger zone” since it may affect the blood supply and the skin flaps from tummy tuck surgery. During the consultation, our board-certified plastic surgeon will specifically address excess skin and stubborn fat with the tummy tuck patient and explain what can and cannot be done safely for your stomach and abdominal area in one cosmetic surgery or tummy tuck procedure.