Reason #3 to Have an Awake Tummy Tuck: Better Results with Liposuction
If you’ve been researching tummy tucks, you might be surprised to learn that many traditional tummy tuck patients still need liposuction afterwards to get the results they were hoping for. Why? Because a standard tummy tuck only removes excess skin and tightens muscles—it doesn’t remove fat from the upper abdomen or flanks. That’s where the awake tummy tuck with liposuction, performed by Dr. Bill Johnson at Innovations Medical, truly stands out.
With nearly 20 years of experience and over 6,000 awake procedures completed, Dr. Johnson combines an advanced tummy tuck technique with targeted liposuction for dramatically flatter, smoother results—all without general anesthesia.
Let’s explore how this combination approach works and why it’s one of the top reasons to have an awake tummy tuck.
The Problem with Traditional Tummy Tucks
A standard tummy tuck—also known as an abdominoplasty—is excellent for removing loose skin and repairing separated abdominal muscles, often after pregnancy or weight loss. But it does not address fat in the upper abdomen, flanks, or waistline. As a result:
Patients may still have bulges or pockets of fat after healing
The upper belly often looks fuller than the lower belly
Liposuction is frequently recommended after surgery to refine results
The Awake Tummy Tuck Advantage: Liposuction Included
Dr. Johnson’s awake tummy tuck combines the benefits of a traditional tummy tuck with the added sculpting power of liposuction—all in one session. This means:
More fat is removed than with a standard tummy tuck
You get a flatter, more toned look across your entire abdomen
No need for follow-up lipo—you get full results the first time
You remain awake and comfortable, without general anesthesia
What Areas Can Be Sculpted with Liposuction?
When performing an awake tummy tuck with liposuction, Dr. Johnson targets several key areas to create a smooth, natural contour:
Upper abdomen
Lower abdomen
Flanks (love handles)
Waistline
Hips or lower back (as needed)
The result is a more even silhouette with better proportion between the upper and lower abdomen—something standard tummy tucks often fail to deliver.

Real Results: How Patients Benefit
Many patients report that their biggest concern with a standard tummy tuck is still looking bulky in the midsection after healing. That’s why Dr. Johnson’s patients are thrilled when they see how smooth and flat their tummy looks after a single awake procedure that includes both skin tightening and fat removal.
One patient shared:
“I had loose skin, but I also had stubborn fat that no diet or exercise could fix. Dr. Johnson’s awake tummy tuck gave me a flat stomach and a smaller waist—I didn’t need another surgery.”
Fewer Procedures, Faster Transformation
Traditional tummy tucks may look like a one-and-done solution, but many patients end up disappointed with residual fat that has to be addressed later. With Dr. Johnson’s awake tummy tuck with liposuction, you get:
A more complete transformation in one session
No need for a second recovery period
More cost-effective results
Faster satisfaction with your new shape
Why Liposuction Makes Such a Difference
Fat is often distributed unevenly across the abdomen, and standard tummy tucks can leave the upper abdomen looking prominent while the lower abdomen is tightened. Liposuction allows Dr. Johnson to remove that upper belly fat, refine the waistline, and create a smoother, more attractive contour.
And because he performs the entire procedure while you’re comfortably awake, he can sculpt with precision and reduce trauma to surrounding tissues—leading to faster healing and better long-term results.
Why Choose Dr. Bill Johnson?
Dr. Johnson is one of the nation’s leading experts in awake procedures. His work has been featured across major media platforms, and he’s trusted by patients nationwide for his gentle technique and exceptional outcomes.
With over 6,000 awake procedures performed and nearly two decades in cosmetic medicine, Dr. Bill Johnson combines science, skill, and artistry to give you results you’ll love.
What’s Next in the Series?
This is the third post in our blog and video series on the 3 main reasons to have an awake tummy tuck:
Reason #3: Enhanced Results with Liposuction ← You’re here!
Next up: A full recap with testimonials and what to expect during your consultation
Be sure to subscribe and follow the full series so you don’t miss out.
In Summary:
Traditional tummy tucks often leave behind upper belly fat and require follow-up lipo
Dr. Johnson’s awake tummy tuck includes liposuction for better, more complete results
Patients experience a flatter abdomen and smaller waist—all in one session
Liposuction enhances the tummy tuck by targeting the entire midsection
No general anesthesia, less trauma, and faster recovery with Dr. Bill Johnson
👉 Ready to schedule your consultation? Contact Innovations Medical today!