Can Abdominal Plication with Overlapping of the Muscles Be Undone? (photo)

   If the muscles have been overlapped, the plication and scar can be divided and the areas plicated again to anatomic norms.  Yes, liposuction can be used in a less invasive way to give the appearance of the natural separation.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

The sutures that make up your muscle repair can be removed but it is likely that your body has healed together and it will be difficult to separate the muscles at this point.  Even with muscle separation, you may not develop the vertical indentation that you desire.  Liposuction targeted in the area of the line might be able to create the look however.  Good luck.

You are correct to note that a natural attractive abdomen typically has a vertical groove above the belly button. Many tummy tuck procedures are designed specifically to create this, but if the muscles actually overlap across the midline then it can be more difficult. A relatively simple option would be with liposuction, to "etch" the groove in by fat removal just under the skin. Your plastic surgeon will be able to give you more specific advice.