I have a round protruding abdomen. I'm 36yrs old and no previous pregnancy. Any suggestions? (photos)

Question

Last 4 months my abdomen has changed the shape so much that by the evening I look heavy pregnant. I had appendectomy done in May and after the surgery started to feel bloated after anything I would eat. GI did endoscopy, colonoscopy and nothing found. No celiac disease, no parasites or bacteria in the stool. GYN all ok as well. Had CT scan for the abdomen and only small cyst on the right ovary. Is it possible the abdominal wall muscles to become wick and that is why the abdomen is so protruding?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Sometimes the abdominal wall can weaken after surgery or over time, but you need to rule out everything else before committing to a tummy tuck to improve the contour.  Find
 a tummy tuck expert who
 performs hundreds each year and has great reviews and great 
before and after pictures.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Diana Breister-Ghosh, MD · Answer

The cause of your protruding abdomen is most likely Rectus Diastasis (muscles have separated).  The only way to repair this is via a Tummy Tuck.  I would recommend waiting until you are done having children to proceed with this surgery.

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

Since you have had a thorough work-up of your newly protruding abdomen, and it didn't reveal other causes, the next step would be to see a board-certified plastic surgeon to evaluate your abdominal muscles. It is indeed possible for weak muscles to result in a protruding abdomen, and he/she would be able to give you more information after reviewing your history and performing a physical examination.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures. Without direct examination, it is not possible to make a definitive diagnosis of diastasis recti;  spreading of the abdominal wall muscles.  You are wise in having undergone a medical workup.  Now, if the appearance of your abdominal wall is of significant concern, then you will be best served by seeking consultation in person with well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons.  At some point, if the abdominal wall muscles have been found to spread, then tummy tuck surgery may be indicated.Generally speaking, the “ideal” patient for tummy tuck surgery specifically is one who has completed pregnancies (if planned), is psycho socially/emotionally/financially stable, has an excellent social support system surrounding him/her, is capable of arranging enough recovery time, does not smoke and who has reached a long-term stable weight.   You may find the attached link, dedicated to tummy tuck surgery concerns, helpful to you as you consider options. Best wishes.

William C. Rigano, MD (retired) · Answer

I agree that you need a thorough exam by an experienced plastic surgeon. Your overall skin looks quite good. the abdominal wall muscle layer may have weakened/separated. Fat overlying the muscle layer can also contribute to the round contour. A good exam should be enough to decide if abdominoplasty or liposuction  can help.

I have a round protruding abdomen. I'm 36yrs old and no previous pregnancy. Any suggestions? (photos)

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