Often, people considering a tummy tuck also desire liposuction to tone their figure and treat stubborn areas that will not slim down despite diet and exercise. Dr. Marwan Khalifeh often combines these procedures so the patient does not have to go through two surgeries. In fact, liposuction is often recommended for patients seeking an abdominoplasty to improve the overall look of the abdomen. The procedure involves the removal of fat from a specific area as well as tightening of the abdominal muscles and removal of excess skin. The result is a smoother, more toned stomach area. Generally, patients who undergo the combination abdominoplasty with liposuction have fat excised from the abdomen, however the combination procedure may be performed with fat removed from the thighs or arms as well, depending on the amount.

Possible candidates for the procedure are generally healthy men and women who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area who also desire liposuction for areas that have been unresponsive to diet and exercise. A consultation with Dr. Khalifeh will help to determine what type of treatment is best for your unique needs. In this type of combination procedure, Dr. Khalifeh not only has to consider the patient’s goals for treatment but several safety considerations as well. The procedure must stay under six hours in order for the surgery to remain an outpatient procedure. Additionally, in order for optimal patient safety, Dr. Khalifeh removes a limit of five liters of fat for a single procedure so that the patient may be sent home the same day.

Dr. Khalifeh performs surgery at his accredited ambulatory surgery center in Chevy Chase, Maryland or at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington D.C, where Dr. Khalifeh holds privileges. Tummy tucks with liposuction are typically performed under either general or twilight anesthesia. During the surgery, excess fat and skin are excised and abdominal muscles area tightened for a more toned look. Sometimes, one or two temporary drains are put in place during the operation to aid in excess fluid drainage. Usually these are removed one to two weeks after the procedure.

Recovery time generally takes a few weeks, and patients should be cautious about returning to strenuous activity too soon. With surgeries of this type, it is best to postpone returning to work for about two to four weeks and to forgo exercise for at least a month. Some discomfort and swelling may occur. As with any type of surgery, some risk is involved. Possible complications include swelling, bleeding, blood clots, and scarring.

Call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khalifeh at (301)244-0148.