Weight loss, pregnancies, or simply genetically weak connective tissue can cause some people to experience sagging skin on their abdomen. Combined with the fact that most of us tend to accumulate fat around the stomach, this is why the abdomen is often described as a problem area.
If exercise and a healthy diet do not help to bring the stomach back to its original shape, a tummy tuck with liposuction can help.
In which cases is a tummy tuck with liposuction indicated?
A tummy tuck with simultaneous liposuction is more than just a cosmetic procedure – it can be a crucial step towards physical and emotional relief. Especially after significant weight loss or pregnancy, the skin often remains stretched, while the underlying tissue is slack and droops. This results in excess skin that is not only cosmetically bothersome but also functionally problematic – for example, through chronic skin irritation, restricted movement, or altered posture. Liposuction is a sensible option when stubborn fat deposits (e.g., so-called "breastfeeding fat") persist on the abdomen, which often cannot be reduced through lifestyle changes alone.
Even with a stable weight and regular exercise, the appearance of the skin on the abdomen and fat deposits sometimes do not fully retract. In such cases, a combination of skin tightening and liposuction can significantly improve the area both visually and functionally. The procedure is suitable for people with normal or slightly elevated body weight, provided that their weight remains largely stable.
What results can be achieved with a combination of abdominoplasty and liposuction? All the benefits at a glance.
The combination of abdominoplasty and liposuction offers the possibility of combining several goals in one procedure: the removal of excess skin, the tightening of the abdominal wall and the targeted reduction of fat deposits in adjacent areas.
This combined method ensures particularly balanced results. The stomach not only becomes flatter, but also blends harmoniously into the overall contour of the body. In addition, the waist can be accentuated, creating a natural, harmonious overall appearance.
Key advantages include:
Significantly firmer abdominal area with removal of excess skin and, if applicable, stretch marks.Contour improvement through liposuction , including on the sides of the waist and hips.Restoration of the rectus abdominis muscles (e.g., in cases of diastasis recti after pregnancy)Relief of functional disorders such as skin eczema or back problemsStrengthening self-esteem through a new body awareness
The results are usually permanent – provided that body weight remains stable after the procedure.
How exactly does a tummy tuck with liposuction work at Livion?
At Livion, treatment begins with a detailed personal consultation. Your wishes, your initial condition, and any pre-existing illnesses or scars are carefully considered. Based on this information, we develop a customized treatment plan.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts between five and seven hours. First, the excess fatty tissue is removed using the tumescent technique. This method allows for particularly gentle liposuction and optimally prepares the tissue for the subsequent tightening. Next, the excess skin is removed, the abdominal wall is tightened if necessary, and the navel is repositioned. The meticulous suturing technique ensures that the resulting scar is as inconspicuous as possible.
After the surgery, you will usually stay in the clinic for two nights for monitoring. A compression garment will then support healing, minimize swelling, and help stabilize your new body shape.
When will the first results be visible and how long does the healing process take?
The effect is visible immediately after the operation – the silhouette appears more defined and the abdomen flatter. However, the body needs time to fully recover. Swelling, a feeling of tightness, or minor bruising often occur in the first few weeks, but these usually subside quickly.
After about six weeks, external healing is largely complete. Only then can the final result gradually be assessed. It usually takes six to twelve months for the tissue to fully stabilize and the scar to fade. Proper behavior during the healing phase—such as regular exercise, abstaining from nicotine, and wearing a compression garment—can specifically support recovery.
When can I return to work after the surgery?
The timing of returning to work depends heavily on the type of job. Those who work in an office can usually start again after about two weeks – provided their recovery is uncomplicated. Those who do physical work or have to lift heavy objects should plan for four to six weeks.
Physical exertion should be strictly avoided during the initial phase. Even everyday tasks like shopping, carrying children, or intensive housework can be too much. It's important to pay close attention to your body and allow it sufficient rest.
How long should you wait after pregnancy before having a tummy tuck/liposuction?
Many women consider a tummy tuck after giving birth – especially if the diastasis recti doesn't resolve or excess skin remains clearly visible. This is understandable, but it's important to give the body sufficient time to regenerate first. After pregnancy, the body needs time to recover, particularly if you are breastfeeding or your hormones are not yet back in balance.
You should wait at least six to twelve months after giving birth. During this time, the uterus shrinks back to its normal size, hormone levels return to normal, and the skin often regains some elasticity. Too much impatience will only lead to an unnecessary procedure.
Furthermore, your weight should have stabilized. If you plan to lose a significant amount of weight after giving birth, it's best to wait until you've reached your goal before having the surgery. This is the only way to achieve optimal and long-lasting results. It's also advisable to wait if you're planning to have more children, as another pregnancy could negatively impact the surgical outcome.
