Transformative Experience: Awake Tummy Tuck, Lipo 360, and BBL
Updated: Oct 5
A tummy tuck, full-torso liposuction, and a Brazilian butt lift — three major body-contouring procedures performed in one surgery day while the patient remains awake. This combination may seem overwhelming. However, one of Dr. Thanapoom "Mo" Boonipat's patients at FacePlus Plastic Surgery Institute in Lubbock experienced this exact combination. When asked to rate her pain from one to ten, she simply replied, "maybe a two."
The Procedures: A Comprehensive Overview
On her surgery day, the patient underwent an awake Liposuction 360, a full tummy tuck, and a BBL (Brazilian butt lift). This approach allows for a comprehensive body transformation in a single session.
Liposuction 360: This procedure sculpts the full circumference of the torso.
Tummy Tuck: This technique removes excess abdominal skin and tightens the midsection.
Brazilian Butt Lift: This involves fat transfer to enhance the shape of the buttocks.
The Patient's Journey: From Nervousness to Satisfaction
Initially, the patient did not feel brave. She expressed, "I was really nervous going into it," but reassured herself, stating, "there was nothing to be nervous about. It all went good."
Her pain rating encompassed the entire experience — both surgery and recovery: "I would say pain from one to ten was maybe a two during this whole process." Her recovery experience was similarly positive. She concluded her testimonial with a strong endorsement: "And I would highly recommend Dr. Boonipat."
The outcome? "Yes — I am really happy with the results that I have."
Why Awake for Such a Significant Combination?
It is common to assume that larger surgeries necessitate general anesthesia. However, at FacePlus+, the approach is distinct. The practice employs thorough local anesthesia, allowing the patient to remain alert and communicate throughout the procedure. This eliminates the need for a recovery period associated with general anesthesia.
The practice's awake liposuction page details the technique: a combination of sedatives and local anesthesia keeps the patient comfortable. A tumescent solution minimizes pain and bleeding, allowing the surgeon to request the patient to flex or change positions for more precise sculpting. As the patient remains conscious, there is no lingering grogginess the following day. Additionally, the tumescent fluid leads to less post-procedure swelling and bruising, promoting a quicker recovery.
The BBL component utilizes the patient's own fat, which is harvested during the Lipo 360, purified, and then transferred. More information can be found on the practice's Brazilian butt lift page, which also discusses the possibility of combining a BBL with a tummy tuck in a single surgical plan.
What to Expect: Recovery After Tummy Tuck, Lipo 360, and BBL
Recovery varies for each patient, and undergoing three procedures in one day is significant. According to the practice's published guidance:
Liposuction Recovery
Most patients return to their normal routines within one to two weeks. However, heavy exertion and vigorous exercise should be avoided for four to six weeks.
BBL Recovery
A compression garment must be worn for 6–8 weeks. Patients should avoid sitting directly on the buttocks for 4–8 weeks and may need to use a pillow. It is advisable to sleep on the stomach or side and to refrain from exercise for at least four weeks.
Pain Management
The practice's awake-first philosophy emphasizes minimal medication. Post-procedure pain for liposuction is typically managed with compression, cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relief.
FAQ: Candidacy and Risks
Am I a Good Candidate?
Good candidates for these procedures are generally healthy non-smokers who are near their ideal weight. The practice notes that candidacy for awake liposuction can be more flexible than traditional liposuction. Some patients who would not qualify for general anesthesia may still be treated while awake, sometimes over multiple sessions. A consultation will determine what combination is safe for your anatomy.
What Are the Risks?
As with any surgery, liposuction carries risks, including bruising, bleeding, infection, numbness, contour irregularities, reactions to anesthesia, and, rarely, persistent fluid collections. Specific risks associated with BBL include blood clots (light walking during recovery is crucial), infection, fat embolism from overly deep injections, and misshapen contours if post-operative instructions are not followed. The implications of combining procedures in one session will be thoroughly discussed during the consultation.
Representative Results
Representative before-and-after results for tummy tuck with Lipo 360 and BBL at FacePlus Plastic Surgery Institute are available for illustration. Individual results may vary.
Serving Lubbock and West Texas
FacePlus Plastic Surgery Institute is conveniently located at 12505 Quaker Ave, Suite A, Lubbock, TX 79424. To schedule an appointment, call or text 806-503-2090. The office hours are Monday–Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM (closed from 12 PM to 1 PM), Friday from 9 AM to 12 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM to 12 PM by appointment. For times outside of the listed hours, please text 806-503-2090. More information regarding location and hours can be found on the Contact Us page.
Patients travel to Lubbock from various locations across West Texas and eastern New Mexico, including Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Hobbs, Plainview, and Levelland, for awake body procedures. It is important to note that consultations require a $50 booking fee, which will be applied toward your surgery fees if you proceed within a month of your consultation.
Begin your journey by exploring real stories on the patient testimonials page. Then, request a consultation to discuss your goals with Dr. Boonipat.
Every patient heals differently, and individual results may vary. The information provided here reflects one patient's reported experience, including her personal pain rating; your experience may differ. The best way to determine what is right for you is through a private consultation with Dr. Boonipat.
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