25 Dec Is Liposuction Included with a Tummy Tuck? And What About Muscle Repair?

When patients come for an abdominal consultation, one of the most common questions they ask is:

“Does a tummy tuck include liposuction?”
and immediately after that:
“Will my muscles be repaired during the surgery?”

At Forest Hill Plastic Surgery Clinic in Toronto, Dr. David Boudana welcomes patients from Toronto, the GTA, North York, Thornhill, Richmond Hill and Markham – and this topic comes up every single week.

The short answer: it depends on the patient.
But in many cases – yes – both liposuction and muscle repair are part of a properly planned tummy tuck.

The role of liposuction in a tummy tuck

A tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal wall – but stubborn fat on the flanks, upper abdomen or waistline often remains. Liposuction can be strategically added to enhance contour, create a smoother waist and improve transitions between the abdomen and sides.

This combination of tummy tuck + liposuction is commonly referred to as lipoabdominoplasty.

Benefits of including lipo:

• better waist definition
• smoother silhouette
• enhanced natural curve
• more sculpted profile

Not every patient needs it – but for many, liposuction is the key to achieving a refined, balanced result rather than a “flat front only.”

Muscle repair: when is it necessary?

Pregnancy and significant weight changes can stretch or separate the abdominal muscles. This is called diastasis recti.

A tummy tuck is the only surgical procedure that can repair this separation. Internal sutures bring the muscles back together – restoring core strength and support.

Muscle repair:

• improves core stability
• reduces abdominal bulge
• supports posture
• can help with back discomfort

This is not “just cosmetic.”
It is functional – it restores the internal support system.

Why personalized planning matters

A tummy tuck is not a one-size-fits-all operation.
Some patients need only skin tightening.
Others need muscle repair.
Many benefit from liposuction for definition.

This is why surgical planning with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential – the exam determines the right combination.

The goal is not simply “flat.”
The goal is harmonious contouring – front, sides, waistline – together.

Schedule a private consultation with Dr. David Boudana, board-certified plastic surgeon at Forest Hill Plastic Surgery Clinic in Toronto.