Do You Need a Tummy Tuck After Liposuction?

Summer is upon us, and with the warmer weather, comes beach days and bathing suits. Have you exhausted yourself from a strict diet and exercise regime but don't seem to be getting closer to your desired results? Maybe you should consider liposuction surgery.

 Body contouring procedures like liposuction can help you achieve a slimmer, sexier figure ready for summer. But sometimes, even after fat removal, you can be left with loose skin. If this is the case, you may want to consider a tummy tuck following your lipo. Find out if you’re a candidate for both procedures to achieve your perfect beach body.

Liposuction vs Tummy Tuck

Before we answer the question, “do you need a tummy tuck after liposuction?”, it's vital to understand what these two procedures entail and how they differ.

Liposuction

Liposuction is primarily a fat reduction and removal tool. It involves small incisions, tumescent fluid, and a cannula to break up and remove stubborn fat cells. It's effective in targeting tricky areas such as the neck and chin, upper arms, abdomen, flanks, buttocks, hips, and thighs. For better overall results, it's commonly paired with other aesthetic surgical procedures.

Why is my stomach still fat after liposuction?

Swelling is part of the procedure. During the treatment, the cannula creates many tunnels under the skin as it moves back and forth. These tunnels then become filled with fluid, which is the cause of the swelling. It should subside after three to four weeks, but it can also last for a few months more.

Tummy Tuck

Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck enhances your abdominal contour through skin removal and muscle tightening. It corrects separated abdominal muscles, tightens the abdominal fascia, removes loose, sagging skin, and helps sculpt a smoother, firmer midsection.

Do You Need a Tummy Tuck After Liposuction? Getting a Lipoabdominoplasty

"Do I need a tummy tuck after getting lipo?" is a question you may have, especially if you're conscious about excessive skin around your midsection following significant weight loss or pregnancy. 

Because both tummy tuck and liposuction can be used to improve your abdominal contour, it may be confusing to understand which procedure is best suited for you or if you could undergo both. The best way to determine the most appropriate course of treatment to help you reach your body goals is to consult a highly qualified and well-experienced plastic surgeon. 

In some cases, combining these two is the best solution for addressing specific concerns and achieving the most appealing outcome. For example, patients with moderate to severe skin laxity and stubborn, exercise-resistant fat may benefit from liposuction to remove fat cells and a tummy tuck to tighten any remaining loose skin. 

If your surgeon recommends an abdominoplasty, you may want to research how to prepare your body for a tummy tuck months in advance.

How Long After Lipo Can You Get a Tummy Tuck?

Generally, liposuction and a tummy tuck are performed at the same time. But like all cosmetic procedures, a lipoabdominoplasty is a highly customized treatment plan best discussed with your surgeon. Your doctor will talk to you about your goals, budget, needs, and timeline to determine the best course of action.

Achieve a Summer-Ready Body Today

With lipo and a tummy tuck, you're sure to get the beach-ready results you want. Contact our team at Burbank Plastic Surgery today to take the first step to a more confident version of yourself. We offer a range of aesthetic treatment options for those looking to improve their figure and self-confidence in the Burbank, Los Angeles, West Hollywood and Beverly Hills areas.