What is the cause of my lower abdominal bulge? (Photos)

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs. Unfortunately without an in-person examination, nor timing since your procedure it is difficult to comment on the bulge. It may very well be swelling if within 6-9 months of surgery. I would seek out second opinions in your area or add information to your narrative.

This may depend on the amount of time since your surgery. If it was quite recent, this amount of swelling is normal. If it has been more than a few months, a CT scan can show what is going on inside.

Dear Fourtimemommy,
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

It's not possible to determine from photos what is causing your concern. If you have recently had a tummy tuck it can be residual swelling. Final tummy tuck results are not seen for 9-12 months. If it is fatty tissue then you can consider liposuction to resolve it. See a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Best to obtain a sub cutaneous scan to rule out fat vs hernia vs seroma. Then if fat liposuction indicated. The fee would be from $5,000.

We need more information. While I’m sure you had an abdominoplasty, how long ago??
Doing surgery so far from home always leads to potential issues with follow up. If very concerned, seek a local board certified plastic to evaluate your concerns.
Best wishes
Dr. Taranow

Hi and welcome to our forum!From your photos, I note fullness of the lower abdomen. Unfortunately, I cannot ascertain the source of the lower abdominal bulge from the photographs. It could be residual swelling, disruption of the diastasis recti plication sutures, or residual fatty tissue. A physical examination is required to differentiate.We do not know how long it has been since your procedure. Initially, inflammatory swelling will totally camouflage the operative result. 60-80% of swelling will resolve within the first 6 weeks. The residual swelling may last for a year or more. If the travel distances prevent evaluation by your surgeon, you may wish evaluation from a local plastic surgeon to ensure that your post surgical course is satisfactory.Best wishes...