Lipo Of Flanks And Tummy Tuck

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that can help you remove excess fat from areas of your body where it’s concentrated, like the hips, buttocks, thighs and abdomen. Liposuction can also be used to treat cellulite by removing areas of lumpy fat that contribute to the appearance of a dimpled skin surface.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia in our office under the supervision of our board-certified plastic surgeon. A small incision is made through which a tube called a cannula is inserted into the fatty tissue layer just below the dermis or skin. The cannula has attached suction tubes that remove unwanted fat through a small opening in the skin. The incision is then closed with stitches or surgical glue and covered with a bandage. In this guide, we review the aspects of Lipo Of Flanks And Tummy Tuck, tummy tuck and flank liposuction cost, how long is recovery after tummy tuck and lipo, and lipo of flanks and tummy tuck.

Lipo Of Flanks And Tummy Tuck

Fast facts

About

• An extended tummy tuck is similar to a abdominoplasty, but the procedure also targets fat on the flanks and lower back.
• The incision wraps from the low pelvis to the lower back.

Safety

• Extended tummy tucks are generally considered safe. As with all surgeries, there are risks involved.
• Risks include swelling, fluid accumulation, reaction to anesthesia, and numbness after surgery.

Convenience

• Tummy tucks are an in-hospital procedure where patients are put under anesthesia.
• If the procedure is elective, as most are, it will not be covered by insurance.
• It’s important to find a trained, board-certified plastic surgeon whose work you trust.

Cost

• The cost for a tummy tuck varies widely based on where you live, the procedure itself, and the size of the area.
• It will usually fall between $4,000 and $18,000.

Effectiveness

• Extended tummy tucks are very effective with studies reporting that the majority of those who elect to have this procedure are satisfied by the results.

What is an extended tummy tuck?

An extended tummy tuck is very similar to a regular tummy tuck — sometimes called an abdominoplasty — but instead of just reducing excess skin and fat on the stomach, it also targets the flank area, or love handles, between the waist and hips. In some cases, an extended tummy tuck will also target excess skin on the lateral thigh.

The ideal candidates for an extended tummy tuck include people who have lost a lot of weight and have excess skin, and those who want to slim the appearance of their stomach and flanks.

How much does an extended tummy tuck cost?

The cost of an extended tummy will vary depending on the surgeon, the volume of fat, and the size of the area. The price range for a tummy tuck generally falls between $4,000 and $18,000.

In 2019, the average cost of a tummy tuck (not extended) was $6,092 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Because there is more involved in an extended tummy tuck, the cost will likely be more. In addition, this cost is only for the procedure and does not take into account anesthesia, operating room facilities, or other related expenses.

Because tummy tucks are usually done for aesthetic reasons only, the procedure will not be covered by insurance. In some cases, a tummy tuck may relieve back pain and incontinence. You will also likely have to take several days off from work for recovery.

How does an extended tummy tuck work?

Extended tummy tucks work by removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and repairing any muscles that have become loosened or torn. Through an incision above the pubic hairline that wraps around to the lower back, skin and fat are removed from the stomach and flank area. The skin is laid flat, and the belly button is reattached, giving the skin a smoother, flatter appearance.

In a 2012 studyTrusted Source of 25 individuals who underwent extended tummy tuck surgery, all 25 were “extremely satisfied” with the results.

Procedure for extended tummy tuck

• During an extended tummy tuck, the surgeon will typically make an incision between your hip bones, low in the pubic area. If you’re having a tummy tuck after a C-section, they may reopen the same scar.
• Any muscles that have been separated, such as from pregnancy, will be sewn together so they appear taut. Full tummy tucks can fix diastasis recti, which is a splitting of the abdominal muscles.
• The belly button will be cut away, and liposuction may be performed if there is extra fat.
• Excess skin is removed from the tummy and flank area, and the skin will be pulled taut.
• Finally, the belly button is sutured in its original place, unless you and your surgeon decide to change its shape.

Targeted areas for extended tummy tuck

Extended tummy tucks target the upper and lower stomach, waist, flanks, and sometimes the uppermost lateral portion of the thigh.

Are there any risks or side effects?

As with all surgery, there are some risks and side effects associated with extended tummy tucks. One study found that 8.5 percentTrusted Source of people who underwent tummy tuck surgery were re-administered into the hospital because of some kind of complication. These complications and side effects may include:

• numbness after surgery, which is typically temporary
• excess fluid or blood pooling in the belly
• swelling and redness
• internal organ puncture — while rare, could be caused by cannula (a tube that removes excess fluids from the body) penetrating too deeply and potentially puncturing an organ

What to expect after an extended tummy tuck

Your surgeon or nurse should brief you on what to expect after surgery including:

• what activities to avoid and how long
• if and when you can consume alcohol and certain medications or supplements
• how long to wear your compression garment
• how to manage your drainage tubes, if your surgeon uses them
• when to schedule a follow-up appointment

You will be able to see some results immediately, though your abdominal area will be swollen and bandaged. For the first few weeks, you will likely be advised to rest at an angle and avoid strenuous activity or lifting heavy things.

Around the 2- to 3-month mark, most of the swelling will likely have gone down, though you may still see some scarring, which should lighten over time. After 6 months to a year, you will see the full results, which should be permanent unless you gain weight quickly or have a pregnancy.

Before and after pictures

It’s helpful to see photos from people who have had extended tummy tucks when deciding if the procedure is right for you. Check out before and after photos below:

Preparing for an extended tummy tuck

Before your extended tummy tuck, you’ll likely need to get a blood panel to make sure you’re in good health. You will also want to meet with your surgeon to discuss what to expect. Also, you will need to arrange a ride home.

You may also be told to:

• stop smoking
• limit alcohol
• stop taking anti-inflammatory drugs (like aspirin) and certain herbal supplements, which could potentially worsen bleeding or prevent proper clotting

Extended tummy tuck vs. traditional tummy tuck

An extended tummy tuck and a traditional tummy tuck are very similar procedures. The main difference is that an extended tummy tuck addresses the flanks, also known as love handles, between the waist and hip. Because of the additional procedure, an extended tummy tuck is often more expensive, takes longer to complete, and may require a longer recovery time post-surgery.

How to find a provider

An extended tummy tuck should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. You can use the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ Find a Surgeon Tool tool to find a list of board-certified plastic surgeons near you.

What Is Lipo Of The Flanks

• Flank liposuction targets the area between the bottom of the rib cage and the top of the waist.
• The procedure is best suited for those trying to lose stubborn body fat that cannot be eliminated through dieting and regular physical exercise.
• Eligible patients need to be in good overall health and close to their target weight.
• Patients can get back to work after just a few days, though they may feel sore in the weeks following the procedure.

If you have trouble losing fat around your flanks — commonly referred to as love handles — you’re not alone. Body fat tends to linger around the body’s lower midsection.

Losing this weight through dieting and regular exercise can be a struggle, which is why many people turn to flank liposuction to sculpt their waistline and eliminate these fat deposits.

What is flank liposuction?

Flank liposuction is a routine, minimally invasive outpatient procedure that removes fat around the sides and back of the waistline while leaving few scars on the patient’s body.

Men use the procedure to create a V-shape from shoulders to waist that makes them appear slimmer and more fit. For women, it helps achieve the coveted S-shape, narrowing the waist at the sides.

The procedure requires general anesthesia. Once you are unconscious, the doctor will make a few small incisions along the sides of your waist and then insert a small tube, called a cannula, that will be used to suck the fat cells out of your body.

What are the potential risks and side effects?

The risks associated with flank liposuction are the same as any liposuction procedure. After you’ve recovered from the procedure, it’s encouraged that you walk around and stay active to keep the blood flowing and prevent clotting in the treated areas.

Some patients may experience numbness or a loss of feeling. Infection is also possible but extremely uncommon. Following the procedure, you should be on the lookout for any signs of infection, such as a high fever. If an infection occurs, the doctor will prescribe an antibiotic.

If you neglect to follow the doctor’s orders, you may also develop scars where incisions were made. To help the body heal naturally, some patients may be asked to wear a compression garment for six to eight weeks. Smoking and lack of physical activity can increase your risk of scarring and other complications. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary.

Though systemic risks are rare, they include significant blood loss, hypothermia, visceral perforation (also known as a ruptured bowl), fulminant infection or inflammation of the lungs, and pulmonary edema or fluid in the lungs.

What does the recovery process involve?

Depending on the success of the procedure and your overall health, you can expect to recover in just a few days after undergoing flank liposuction. In fact, some patients go in for the procedure on Friday and return to work the following Monday. However, you may feel sore for several weeks or months following the procedure.

Regarding the recovery process, Indianapolis-based plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Fata says that “Most patients feel sore in the flanks and lower back for about one week. Bruising in the treatment area might not subside for two to three weeks. Swelling may not subside for one to two months, sometimes more, which is why final results are not immediately apparent.”

What results can you expect?

This procedure tends to be extremely effective for trimming the waistline and eliminating love handles, but results vary based on the age and overall health of the patient. If you undergo flank liposuction to refine your waistline after dramatic weight loss, your skin may be slow to adjust to your body’s new shape.

“As with any liposuction procedure, much depends on the elasticity of the skin,” confirms Long Island plastic surgeon Dr. Brian A. Pinsky. “Results may be unpredictable in patients with poor skin elasticity or significant skin excess.” This can be especially true for patients who, having undergone bariatric surgery, have already lost large amounts of weight.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends removing no more than eight to 10 pounds of body fat at one time; otherwise, complications are likely. If you’re still dissatisfied with your figure after the first procedure, you may need to undergo a second procedure to remove additional fat cells.

What is the cost?

Depending on your location, the cost of flank liposuction should be around $3,000-$5,000.

Who is a good candidate?

Anyone who’s been struggling to eliminate their love handles may be a good candidate for this procedure, so long as they are healthy and close to their target weight.

The procedure is not meant to replace diet and exercise. If you’re interested in flank liposuction, you should maintain a healthy diet, have an active lifestyle, and be a nonsmoker.

Is flank liposuction the only way to get rid of love handles?

In addition to liposuction of the flanks, you can also try CoolSculpting, an FDA-approved, non-surgical procedure that removes stubborn body fat by freezing fat cells so the body can process and get rid of them naturally. CoolSculpting works on all areas of the body where stubborn body fat is commonly found.

Laser liposuction is another noninvasive procedure that uses a laser to get rid of fat cells. It usually involves less recovery time and is best for removing smaller sections of body fat than targeted by traditional liposuction.

Lutherville-Timonium, MD plastic surgeon Dr. Adam L. Basner has some advice for choosing between these procedures: “Laser lipo and CoolSculpting are appropriate for small areas when only a minor change is desired. Traditional liposuction is much more effective, with much greater results in all areas.”

Is flank liposuction right for me?

Overall, flank liposuction is an excellent choice when it comes to removing love handles and fat cells around the waist. You’ll need to be near your target weight and in good health. The risks are minimal, and the recovery process is relatively short.

tummy tuck and flank liposuction cost

A firm, flat stomach is the hallmark sign of youth and vitality. While many men and women strive to achieve a toned tummy through diet and exercise, it’s often not enough. Stubborn fat and loose, sagging skin can keep you from attaining your desired contours. A tummy tuck can produce dramatic, long-lasting results that many patients consider an investment in their future happiness.

Tummy tuck procedures can vary significantly from person to person. Facility fees, general anesthesia, surgeon fees, lab tests, health status, patient weight, and medications can all play a role in the price you’ll pay. The best way to get accurate pricing is with a consultation with your surgeon in order to get a quote customized for your specific situation.

Tummy Tuck Cost in Nashville

“Mini” tummy tuck surgery can start at $5,500 with severe cases costing upwards of $25,000 to achieve an optimal outcome. In most cases, you can expect a tummy tuck from a board-certified cosmetic surgeon to cost between $12,000-$18,000. The best way to determine how much you’ll pay is through an in-person consultation. The approximate average for a tummy tuck with Dr. Harris is $12,000 due to the significant amount of body contouring with liposuction he does as part of the tummy tuck procedure.

*Individual Results May Vary

Choosing Dr. Harris For Your Tummy Tuck Procedure

Dr. Brady Harris is one of the area’s premiere body-contouring specialists for both men and women. During your procedure, Dr. Harris will work meticulously to thin abdominal, flank and back fat pads, remove excess skin, and tighten underlying muscles. The more time, labor, and expertise needed to achieve your desired results can increase the cost of your surgery.

Your surgery will be performed in our state-of-the-art accredited surgical center. Facility fees are often a large portion of your final bill. Image Surgical Arts cuts out the middleman by performing your surgery in-house. We’re able to perform your procedure with more advanced equipment while maintaining a lower cost than in a facility such as a hospital. Our tummy tucks are done as an outpatient procedure so you can rest in your own bed the night of surgery.

This is hands down the best surgical office I’ve been too. I had a full tummy tuck, liposuction, and a breast aug Dr.Harris is the best but let me say all the ladies that work there are the best as well I highly recommend this office it’s top notch

At the time of your consultation, triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Harris will assess your condition and determine if you are a candidate for a tummy tuck. Liposuction is always paired with your tummy tuck surgery to create a more sculpted appearance (the cost of multiple areas of liposuction is included in the price for a tummy tuck). Liposuction is performed in the lower back, flanks, sacrum, bra line, and abdomen. Dr. Harris will be able to provide you with a detailed cost estimate following your consult.

how long is recovery after tummy tuck and lipo

A tummy tuck is a common plastic surgery procedure that has remained popular for years. In fact, the most recent statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons show that this was one of the top five cosmetic procedures performed for men and women last year.

Despite the popularity of this surgery, many people often don’t know what to expect during their recovery. Understanding the recovery process and timeline can help make the tummy tuck an easier journey for many patients.

Recovery times vary

There is no single answer for how long it will take to recover from a tummy tuck. Like any surgical procedure, there is a general time frame, but individual recoveries are based on a variety of factors, including the following:

After the procedure is complete, your surgeon will discuss a more specific timeline for your recovery, but generally speaking, most patients begin feeling more normal around the eight-week mark.

Why the type of tuck matters

There are several types of tummy tucks that can be performed. You can get a full or more involved “extended tummy tuck,” or you can get a “mini” tuck, which only focuses on a small area in the lower abdomen.

The more extensive your abdominal contouring is, the longer it may take to recover fully. This is especially true if you opt for an extended tummy tuck because these can involve the flanks, lower back and lower chest.

What to expect during tummy tuck recovery

The most important thing to remember during this process is that you should follow your surgeon’s instructions closely. Don’t hesitate to contact the doctor’s office if you have questions or concerns.

Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck is always recommended because he or she has met stringent training and safety requirements that other surgeons have not. Your board-certified plastic surgeon can offer recovery advice and assistance throughout the healing process.

1. Immediately after surgery

Directly following a tummy tuck, your abdomen will be covered with surgical dressing. In many cases, there will be thin, small tubes placed around your incision in order to drain any fluid that builds up around it. This is common and shouldn’t cause you any additional discomfort.

You will need to rest at an angle for the first few days of recovery and will be given instructions to move about to help prevent any blood clots.

2. When you’re home

It’s important to line up help for at least the first day or two that you’re home following surgery. You will be prescribed pain medications and have somewhat limited mobility, so you will not be able to drive yourself home.

Once home, you will likely have difficulty with bending, lifting or standing for prolonged periods of time, so having someone to help around the house during the initial period after tummy tuck surgery can make recovery significantly easier.

3. Daily maintenance

Your doctor will teach you how to properly care for your incision and drainage tubes for the duration of your recovery.

Most patients are given antibiotics and anticoagulants to take for a certain length of time, and some are given topical creams to apply around the incision site.

You will have an abdominal support garment or wrap that will help with swelling and discomfort during recovery, so it’s important to wear it for the recommended amount of time each day.

Smoking and drinking alcohol can seriously inhibit your recovery, so they should be avoided for at least three months post-surgery.

4. Resuming normal life

If you have young children, you will want to enlist help to assist with childcare, as squatting or picking up children (or heavy objects for that matter) for the first few weeks is strongly advised against. However, driving, cooking or shopping is often manageable after a week or two.

Most people opt to take up to a month off work for recovery. If you have a physically demanding job, it’s especially important to take plenty of time off so that you don’t jeopardize your recovery. You will also want to avoid exercise during this time for the same reasons.

5. Long-term effects

Some people experience numbness or a pulling sensation for weeks or months after a tummy tuck, but this is typically normal and often fades with time. It can take up to three months for the swelling and bruising to go down completely, and it may take longer than that for your scar to fade.

lipo of flanks and tummy tuck

Liposuction of the flanks is one of the most common procedures to reduce the fat on the love handles and create a smaller waist. Fat on the love handles is very difficult to get rid of with diet and exercise alone, people of all sizes can benefit from flank liposuction to get a slimmer look. Dr. Dass always removes a large percentage of the fat from the flanks to create a sculpted and highly defined result. Dr. Dass specializes in liposuction body contouring. Liposuction is a minimally invasive technique that removes unwanted fat and improves body contours. Dr. Dass approaches liposuction as an artform to create a wonderfully sculpted body.

Candidates for Liposuction

Good candidates for flank liposuction have stubborn fat on the waist and upper hips, resulting in love handles and “muffin-top” over the pants. Liposuction is not a substitute for diet and exercise, but can be used as an adjunct to your regimen. Although you do not lose a significant amount of weight from liposuction, you will often lose several inches off the midsection, making it look like you have lost some weight. This improved look often leads to an improved self-confidence, and serves as a strong motivator to encourage you to maintain your diet/exercise regimen, and to lose more weight. Improvements in body contour with exercise will be much easier after this stubborn layer of fat is removed with liposuction.

How much fat can be removed?

During one liposuction procedure, a maximum of upto five liters of fat can be removed. Five liters is a lot of fat, it is equivalent to 2.5 of the large soda bottles or 1.3 gallons. Now obviously, the maximum will be dependent on each individual, ie smaller individuals need less fat extraction compared to larger individuals, based on total body fat content. The final amount of fat extraction will be determined during surgery, based on size and safety, but Dr. Dass will take out as much as he can. Watch this video, it shows how this young lady had about 3 inches of pinchable fat above the muscle before surgery, and Dr. Dass removed almost all of the fat down to skin.

Liposuction Surgery

In this video Dr. Dass demonstrates the liposuction procedure and just how much fat can be removed during the surgery. It is quite impressive how thin he can make this patient. This can be performed in well selected patients with good quality skin. Results will vary.

The Procedure

Liposuction can be performed under local or general anesthesia. It is generally performed under general anesthesia when multiple areas are treated at the same time or when liposuction is combined with other procedures. When liposuction is performed under local anesthesia, this is referred to as tumescent anesthesia for liposuction. Liposuction is well tolerated under local anesthesia.

Recovery from Liposuction

Everyone is different, but the procedure is well tolerated. Most people are able to go back to work after about 3-4 days. It is not terribly painful, but you will be sore after the surgery. After surgery, we recommend that you begin walking the same day to reduce your risk of complications. You will need to wear a compression garment for about 6 weeks after the operation. Full exercise routines may be resumed after 6 weeks.

Liposuction of the Flanks

Liposuction Risks

Liposuction is real surgery and carries a small risk of complications. Risks of surgery include bleeding and bruising, infection, multiple small scars, fluid collections, asymmetry, loose skin, skin irregularities, contour irregularities, and blood clots. Risks are often dependent on your current medical condition. During your consultation, we will discuss your specific risks of surgery.