Houston, TX
Authored by: Dr. Sam Sukkar, MD on June 16th, 2025
Many people in Houston want a smoother, flatter midsection but struggle to get the results they want with diet and exercise alone. Tummy tuck and liposuction are two popular procedures that can help reshape the body, but when combined, they often offer even better results for those looking for improved body contouring. Combining a tummy tuck with liposuction can remove excess fat and skin while tightening muscles, creating a more defined and youthful silhouette.
Tummy tuck and liposuction are two different types of body contouring procedures. Each offers unique benefits for those in Houston who want a flatter abdomen or better body shape.
A tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to remove loose skin and extra fat from the stomach area. It also tightens the abdominal muscles. This surgery is common for people who have lost a lot of weight or for women after pregnancy.
Liposuction focuses on getting rid of fat deposits in specific areas of the body, like the belly, hips, or thighs. A plastic surgeon uses a thin tube, called a cannula, to suction out the fat. Liposuction can be performed by itself or together with other procedures.
The main difference is that a tummy tuck removes both skin and fat, while liposuction only removes fat. During a tummy tuck, the surgeon often repairs stretched or separated abdominal muscles, which is not part of liposuction.
Liposuction is best for those with firm skin and good muscle tone who still struggle with stubborn fat areas. Since no skin is removed, it can’t fix sagging or loose skin. In contrast, abdominoplasty is helpful for those dealing with extra skin after weight loss or pregnancy.
A tummy tuck creates a scar that is usually placed low along the bikini line. Liposuction results in very small scars from the cannula entry points. Recovery times can also differ, with tummy tuck recovery taking longer than liposuction.
When a tummy tuck is paired with liposuction, patients can target stubborn fat and loose skin at the same time. This combo gives more complete results than either procedure alone and is especially helpful after pregnancy or major weight changes.
Combining a tummy tuck surgery with liposuction takes advantage of both procedures’ strengths. A tummy tuck removes extra skin and tightens muscles. Liposuction focuses on stubborn fat deposits that do not go away with diet and exercise.
Patients often want a flat, smooth abdomen, but sometimes fat reduction alone doesn’t address leftover loose skin. By doing both procedures together, surgeons can shape the waistline, flatten bulges, and sculpt the midsection more precisely. This is especially useful for those who have lost a lot of weight or experienced changes after pregnancy.
A major benefit of combining a tummy tuck and liposuction is the increased ability to create smooth, natural-looking contours. Removing fat with liposuction can help address bulges or uneven areas left after a tummy tuck alone.
When both procedures are done together, people get better midsection definition and their clothes often fit better. The improved contouring also helps with confidence, as patients feel more comfortable in everyday activities as well as social events.
Surgeons can also adjust their techniques for each patient’s unique needs, making it easier to target areas with the most stubborn fat or loose skin. This leads to better overall outcomes for those wanting body contouring.
Tummy tucks are the main choice for tightening loose or sagging skin, especially after significant weight loss or pregnancy. Liposuction, on the other hand, is used to reduce fat deposits that are hard to remove with just lifestyle changes.
Combining these treatments helps address both issues at once. After fat is removed, there’s less tissue weighing down the skin, making the stomach area appear firmer and tighter. Patients no longer see loose skin gather after fat reduction, because the tummy tuck corrects it at the same time.
This approach gives a more complete transformation. People recover from both procedures together, so healing is more efficient and results show up sooner.
Tummy tuck surgery comes in a few main types, each designed for different goals. These options use different incision sizes to target certain areas, which helps shape the look of the abdomen, waist, and sides in unique ways.
A full tummy tuck (traditional abdominoplasty) removes extra skin and fat from the area between the belly button and pubic bone. It also tightens weak abdominal muscles. The belly button is often repositioned for better results. This is a good choice for people with loose skin over the whole midsection.
The mini tummy tuck is less invasive. It uses a smaller incision, usually below the belly button. Only the lower abdomen is treated, and the belly button stays in place. The mini tummy tuck is ideal for people who have mild skin sagging or a small “pooch” under the navel. Recovery is often quicker with this option.
An extended tummy tuck targets the abdomen, waist, and part of the hips. It also removes extra skin and fat from the “love handles” and may reach part of the lower back. This type works best for people who have lost a lot of weight and have skin folds along the sides. The incision is longer, but the results cover more area.
Picking the right plastic surgeon in Houston is important for getting the safest and most attractive results from combined tummy tuck and liposuction procedures. Attention to skills, credentials, and communication style can help patients feel confident and informed during every step.
Choosing a highly trained plastic surgeon matters. Patients should look for a board certified plastic surgeon who has experience in tummy tuck and liposuction surgeries. Board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery means the surgeon has passed extra exams and meets safety standards set by their field.
It’s helpful to check a surgeon’s education, years of experience, and number of procedures performed. Many patients in Houston also review before-and-after photos to see if the surgeon’s style matches their goals.
Scheduling a thorough tummy tuck consultation is essential. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will review each patient’s health, discuss goals, and suggest options for customized treatment.
A detailed plan may include a physical exam and taking photos. Patients should ask questions about the surgical process, options for anesthesia, realistic results, and expected downtime. Clinics adjust procedures based on unique anatomy and needs.
Knowing what to expect and having a clear plan helps patients trust their surgeon. Open communication makes it easier for the patient and doctor to work together for the best possible outcome.
The price for a tummy tuck in Houston usually ranges from $12,000 to $19,000. This rate depends on the surgeon’s experience, type of procedure, and surgical facility. If liposuction is added, the total tummy tuck cost in Texas will go up. Factors like anesthesia and aftercare may also affect the final price.
Combining a tummy tuck with liposuction is generally safe when done by a board-certified plastic surgeon. However, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, or delayed healing. A qualified surgeon will explain all possible risks and how they can be managed.
It is common to add liposuction to a tummy tuck for more defined body contouring. Some people also choose breast surgeries, such as a breast lift or breast augmentation, during the same session. These combinations are often called a “mommy makeover.”
Results from combined procedures can last for many years if patients maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle. Major changes in weight or pregnancy after surgery may affect the results. Regular exercise and balanced eating habits can help keep the new contours looking their best. Touch-up procedures are rarely needed if patients follow their surgeon’s advice.
Combining a tummy tuck with liposuction is a strategic way to achieve a smoother, firmer, and more sculpted abdomen, especially for individuals dealing with both loose skin and stubborn fat. This dual approach enhances the results of either procedure alone by tightening the abdominal wall, removing excess skin, and precisely targeting fat deposits.
With guidance from an experienced Houston plastic surgeon, patients can expect safer procedures, better contouring, and a more confident appearance. A thorough consultation, realistic expectations, and proper post-operative care are key to long-term success.
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Dr. Sam Sukkar, MD, FACS is a highly respected Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in Houston, Texas, known for his expertise in advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. As the founder of The Clinic for Plastic Surgery, Dr. Sukkar has set a new standard for excellence, performing over 20,000 procedures with a focus on delivering natural, refined results.
Dr. Sukkar earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in 1992 after graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology. He then completed an intensive General Surgery Residency at the University of Texas Hermann Hospital before being selected for a highly competitive Plastic Surgery Fellowship at Northwestern University in Chicago, one of the most prestigious training programs in the country.
With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Sukkar is a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). He is also an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Houston Society of Plastic Surgery (HSPS). His dedication to innovation and continuing education has solidified his reputation as a leading expert in aesthetic surgery, specializing in breast surgery, body contouring, facial procedures, and non-invasive treatments.
Dr. Sukkar’s expertise has been recognized by Houston Magazine, naming him one of Houston’s “Top Docs for Women,” and he has been featured among RealSelf’s America’s Top Doctors. Committed to his patients, he prioritizes personalized care, ensuring every individual feels informed, comfortable, and confident in their aesthetic journey.
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Cover Image Credit: Deagreez / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Sam Sukkar, MD, The Clinic for Plastic Surgery.
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