Protruding belly 9 months post-op - Any ideas about what could be happening? (photos)

Question

Hi, I had a full abdominoplasty with lipo and umbilical hernia repair in April 2021. My belly button died and completely closed up. I had the 'revision' to the belly button and additional flank lipo 10 days ago. The photos show my belly button post-revision. I have two major concerns: 1. My stomach looks as round if not rounder than when I first had the surgery. 2. My belly button looks closed again! Any ideas about what could be happening? My weight has been stable.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I am sorry to hear of your surgical complications.  Currently your tissues may be swollen as a result of the liposuction so I would recommend allowing 6-8 weeks to see some improvement.  As for your abdomen, either a muscle repair was not performed, it was performed and failed, or too much visceral fat is present that can only be addressed through weight loss.  I would discuss your results at great length with your surgeon or seek out second opinions for the best advice.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Passionate144557,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

An in person examination is always best but it seems the shape of your abdomen is from visceral fat.  This is not addressed through liposuction or the tummy tuck as it is behind the muscle wall.  Weight loss will improve visceral fat.  I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation as she/he is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.

Protruding belly 9 months post-op - Any ideas about what could be happening? (photos)

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