Tummy Tuck

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am interested in getting a tummy tuck later this year. I work out five days a week lifting weights and  and eat a high protein based diet. I am 220 pounds and 6’ 2” feet tall.mI am trying to get down to 10 percent body fat and stabilize at 190 pounds. My trainer predicts that we can achieve that in 6 months and that is when I would like to have the tummy tuck surgery. My lower body is all muscle but I have a very fatty upper body. I have significant visceral fat and of course subcutaneous fat below the skin which will be removed during the tummy tuck. My weight has fluctuated a lot in the past which has resulted in a very lax bulging abdominal wall and stretch marks on the skin. I was recommended to have a full tummy tuck with flank liposuction and central abdominal liposuction as well. But I don’t want central abdominal liposuction, I don’t want to risk any healing and circulation complictitons. It can be done later after the tummy tuck. I have attached pictures of my stomach for your review.

A: Thank you for sending your pictures. I would certainly agree that your tummy tuck should wait until you have maximized your weight loss. That is the only way to reduce your visceral fat component of your abdominal protrusion. This will also allow for the most extra skin to be taken during the tummy tuck as well. I would also agree that any abdominal liposuction or etching can be done as a second stage procedure. That is both safer and more effective when done that way.

Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana