For patients with a higher BMI, body contouring decisions require thoughtful planning and medical expertise. At Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery in Richmond, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin tailor abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction procedures to individual needs, focusing on safety, proportional results, and long-term satisfaction. Here’s what to know about combining these procedures and when staging them may be the wiser choice.
Why Combine a Tummy Tuck With Liposuction
A tummy tuck removes excess skin and repairs stretched muscles, while liposuction reduces targeted fat deposits. Performed together, they reshape the torso in three dimensions. At VIPS, Drs. Sundin often include flank and lower-back liposuction with abdominoplasty to refine both the front and back views.
Potential advantages:
- Balanced contour: Coordinated abdominal tightening with 360° refinement of flanks and back.
- One recovery: A single healing period instead of two separate operations.
- Earlier results: Noticeable improvement in shape and proportion sooner.
When Staging Is the Safer Choice
In some cases, separating tummy tuck and liposuction into two operations enhances safety, recovery, and predictability.
Staging may be recommended when:
- Extensive scope: Large-volume liposuction or extended abdominoplasty is required.
- Medical factors: Conditions such as diabetes, anemia, or untreated sleep apnea need further optimization.
- Skin quality: Limited elasticity makes a cautious, stepwise approach preferable.
- Recovery logistics: Work or caregiving responsibilities require a shorter first procedure.
VIPS’ Patient-First Approach to Safety
At Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery, patient safety comes first. Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin operate in accredited facilities with board-certified anesthesia providers, carefully manage fluid and temperature balance, and follow established safety standards for liposuction volumes. Their 360-degree strategy often includes flank and lower-back liposuction for natural, hourglass proportions.
Techniques that support recovery:
- Precision liposuction: Power- and vibration-assisted devices for gentler fat removal with less tissue trauma.
- Skin tightening: Options such as Renuvion for improved tone in selected candidates.
- Drain-free option: In certain cases, a TissuGlu-assisted tummy tuck can reduce fluid pockets and simplify aftercare.
What Recovery Looks Like
Most patients spend one to two weeks focusing on rest, compression, early walking, and incision care. Light desk work may resume at two weeks, while heavy lifting and vigorous exercise generally wait six to eight weeks. Swelling steadily improves across several months, with final results emerging as tissues settle.
Preparation tips:
- Home setup: Supportive pillows, reachable essentials, and clear walking paths.
- Compression use: Wear garments as instructed to guide swelling and contour.
- Follow-up visits: Attend all appointments for incision checks and recovery monitoring.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’re considering a tummy tuck with liposuction as a higher-BMI patient, schedule a private consultation with Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery. Meet board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin to review candidacy, discuss tailored surgical plans, including drain-free options when appropriate, and receive a recovery plan designed around your needs. Contact our Richmond office to begin your journey toward balanced, natural-looking results.
