How do I know if I need an abdominoplasty?

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose skin that will not respond to diet and exercise. Patients who intend to lose a significant amount of weight should postpone the surgery, as should a woman who is planning future pregnancies. Some patients may benefit from an abdominoplasty done in conjunction with limited liposuction of the hips to create a better body contour, though in other cases liposuction alone will create the best result. Liposuction of the thighs cannot be done at the same time, as this combination can increase risk for complications.