I had a Tummy Tuck 3 months ago, and the upper abdominal suture tore, leaving a lump on my upper stomach. Although I'm doing everything my doctor told me, should I consider having a second surgery to correct the problem? My doctor suggested Liposuction to reduce the appearance of the bulge, but I don't think that will solve the problem and I'm afraid I will pay the consequences if I don't make the right decision.
It is unlikely that you will be improved by liposuction of the upper abdomen following a tear of the plication suture(s). If there is a bulge that is fatty in nature, then it may be somewhat improved, but again this is an unlikely scenario.
Hello,
While lipo can reduce the appearance of a "lump" if that lump is fatty, it cannot fix a muscular repair breakdown problem. It may make it less appreciable however. Maybe that is what your surgeon aims to do.
Tummy tuck muscular repair breakdown is very rare in my patients. Maybe your repair stretched?
Best Regards,
John Di Saia MD
Board-certified Plastic Surgeon
It sounds like a diastasis recti (muscle splitting apart). The muscles protect and cover your inside organs. When there is a split in the muscles, then the insides bulge threw the split and can herniate or protrude. If you have a liposuction canula poking in the area you may get a rupture which is very serious. Your surgeon is knowledgable of these things so heed his advise and it never hurts to get another opinion with a thorough exam from another doctor. If it needs the muscle repaired then it is common to wait at least 3 more months or whatever your surgeon suggests.
Good Luck,
David Hansen,MD
Contact the doctor
