6 years post-op tummy tuck bulge - would it go away if I continue exercising my abs? (Photos)

Question

Good afternoon I have a mommy makeover 6 years ago, and i been working out on abs for a while now, and i started to notice a bulge; it's hard on top of my stomach, no pain it just looks weird. Would it go away if i continue exercising my abs? Or should i stop?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear szamora1,
I understand your concern. Generally speaking, if this is muscle separation, then exercising will not improve it. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

It looks to me like there is recurrent diastasis. If so, another repair can be done to tighten that area.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's not possible to tell from the photos the nature of the bulge that concerns you.  Is it less noticeable when you first wake? Before/after exercising? Before/after eating?  It could possibly be a small hernia.  I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is very likely that you developed supra umbilical hernia due to excersise. In person evaluation with a board certified plastic surgeon is recommended. Good luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You can go to your primary care physician and ask for an ultrasound to see if you have a small hernia. I would avoid abdominal exercises for now until this is ruled out.

6 years post-op tummy tuck bulge - would it go away if I continue exercising my abs? (Photos)

Answers (5)