I Have This "Ledge" That is Really Bothering Me!! :(

asked 11 months ago by kimmys in Omaha, NE
Latest answer by Tom J. Pousti, MD
Question viewed 393 times
Tags: excess skin, 3 months post-op, incision, worried

It started about 10wks or so and has continued (I am now 15 wks). It basically looks like I have a "ken doll" above and below my incision. It doesn't change on a day to day basis like normal swelling but I did notice the other night when I wore my binder (which I don't wear anymore) that it did help slightly. I am just worried that it's fat or leftover skin! It is right in the middle of my stomach between my bb and incision! Sorry but this is the best pics I have at the moment thank you!!!

5 answers to I Have This "Ledge" That is Really Bothering Me!! :(

Ledge after tummy tuck.

I hear you, and I sympathize with you. I've also seen many of these "ledges" in my patients. Most, if not all, resolve six months after the surgery. If your surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons he or she can deal with this ledge expertly. Trust your surgeon, and use tincture of time...it works.

Ayman Hakki, MD
Washington Plastic Surgeon

"Ledge" after Tummy Tuck?

Thank you for the question and pictures. At your stage of recovery it is most likely that the “ledge” you are feeling/seeing is related to soft tissue swelling that will dissipate over time. I would suggest that you allow for one year to pass before you evaluate the end results of your tummy tuck surgery. In the meantime, continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon for direct examination. Best wishes. see video

Tom J. Pousti, MD
San Diego Plastic Surgeon

www.poustiplasticsurgery.com

Swelling after tummy tuck

A moderate amount of swelling is expected after a tummy tuck. Most of this swelling will subside in the first 4-6 weeks after surgery. A common complication encountered after a tummy tuck is a fluid collection called a seroma. Signs of a seroma include bulging, a palpable mass, and a visible fluid wave. Although most seromas are diagnosed by physical exam, some require ultrasound. Obviously, your best resource in regards to your particular issue will be the plastic... more

Kelly Gallego, MD
Sioux City Plastic Surgeon

www.drgallego.com

"Ken doll" above and below tummy tuck incision at 15 weeks post-op!

Kimmys, this is an interesting description, but what your photos show (thanks for including) is a really nice result with the expected degree of post-operative edema (swelling) and induration (firmness) associated with this point in your recovery. The majority of your swelling has resolved by absorption, revealing areas of residual induration and lymphedema that is normal for this surgery. While there MAY be a tiny bit of "extra" fat or skin that could be revised if necessary, I... more

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS
Minneapolis Plastic Surgeon

www.mpsmn.com

You may need to have scar revision

Please discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. He/she would like to know about your concerns and it would be a simple procedure to fix it. I would wait at least six months before any revision.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD
New Orleans Plastic Surgeon

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