Tummy tuck 9 years ago, never truly happy with the results. Would lipo help?

Thank you for your question regarding dissatisfaction with your tummy tuck results from nine years ago and whether liposuction could help with the significant bulge at the top of your abs.

Without pictures or a physical examination, it's challenging to provide a definitive answer about the best course of action for your specific case. However, I can discuss some possibilities that might be causing this bulge:

Subcutaneous Fat: If the bulge is primarily made up of subcutaneous fat (the layer of fat just below the skin), then liposuction could indeed be an effective solution. Liposuction targets this type of fat, removing it to create a smoother, flatter abdominal profile.

Visceral Fat: This type of fat lies deeper within the abdomen around your internal organs and cannot be addressed with liposuction. If visceral fat is contributing to the bulge, lifestyle changes involving diet and exercise are typically recommended.

Muscle Laxity or Diastasis Recti: Sometimes, the underlying abdominal muscles may have separated or weakened, a condition known as diastasis recti, which can cause a bulge. This would not be corrected by liposuction and might require a surgical approach, such as a revision tummy tuck, to tighten the muscles.

Scar Tissue or Post-Surgical Changes: There could also be scar tissue or other changes from the initial surgery contributing to the appearance of a bulge.

Given these possibilities, the first step is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can perform a thorough physical examination. This assessment will help identify the nature of the bulge and whether it consists of subcutaneous fat amenable to liposuction or if another issue is at play.

If the examination confirms that the bulge is indeed subcutaneous fat, liposuction could be a viable option to improve the contour of your abdomen. However, if other factors like muscle laxity are involved, a different or additional surgical procedure may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

Please seek a consultation with a plastic surgeon experienced in revision body contouring to explore your options and develop a plan tailored to your needs.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

If the bulge at the top is in the midline then it may be because they did not reinforce the upper part of the abdomen with sutures. Tightening the lower part will often cause the upper part to bulge. Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs. You may require a repeat tummy tuck or revision of this upper area. Liposuction may not help.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.