Can Liposuction Reduce My Stomach Fat Concerns?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have never been terribly overweight, however, I can’t lose the belly fat. I would also like to take a few years off my face. Most people tell me I look to be about 45, I’m actually 56. My looks probably matter more to me than most people as I currently work in a very visible public position so I feel I need to look my best so I can stay in this business until I retire. I would like to know what I can get done and not have to be off work any long periods of time. I am very interested in liposuction of my stomach/butt/thighs/ and arms, possible facial work later.

A: Since body contouring in your primary focus for now, I will keep my comments to that area. The most important question based on your inquiry is what is the best treatment for your body fat concerns. The abdominal area is always the one body area where the debate is between liposuction and a tummy tuck. It has been my experience that most people assume that liposuction can do too much, that it can magically remove a lot of fat and tighten up a lot of loose skin. While liposuction is a very good fat remover, it can do little for excess skin. Thus whether it is an appropriate surgical method for your abdomen, arm, thighs and buttocks issues will require a physical examination to answer. My concern for you is that the desire for great body contour changes and little time of work often do not go together very well.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana