Liposuction with Existing Abdominal Surgery Scars?

Question

I had a hysterectomy at 33 and due to complications caused from that surgery including endometriosis(sp?) and then adhesions binding up my ureters and ovaries. I had two subsequent corrective surgeries plus the removal of my ovaries, all cutting me on the same bikini line within two years.  This has resulted in a very thick tight band of scar tissue that my belly tends to fold over. I'm also hypothyroid (Hashimoto's) and have had trouble with my weight because I was left untreated for ten years [turns out all I had probably needed was thyroid treatment and NOT a hysterectomy]. My question is, if due to all the abdominal adhesions i know i still have, plus the extra weight that i cannot seem to lose, is there any form of liposuction like that Ultrashape method that would be my best option?  I do have a huge scar from gallbladder surgery from two years ago but i most definitely don't see how a reverse tummy tuck would fit into that same scar as it is diagonal and not just under my breasts. What if you're not a good candidate for liposuction due to previous surgical complications?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the feasibility of liposuction given your complex surgical history and existing abdominal scars.

Given the extensive history of abdominal surgeries you've described, including a hysterectomy, corrective surgeries for adhesions, and a significant scar from gallbladder surgery, it's difficult to determine the best course of action without a thorough physical examination and consultation. The presence of thick scar tissue and adhesions can complicate procedures like liposuction, as these conditions may affect the underlying tissue and overall safety of additional abdominal surgeries.

Before considering any form of liposuction, it would be prudent to have a detailed consultation with a plastic surgeon who can assess the condition of your abdominal tissue, the extent of the scar tissue, and any adhesions that may be present. This assessment should ideally be accompanied by a series of health tests to ensure your overall fitness for surgery. These tests might include:

EKG (Electrocardiogram) to check for heart health,
Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Metabolic Panel to assess general health and kidney function,
Thyroid Function Tests given your history of hypothyroidism,
Imaging studies such as an ultrasound or MRI to better understand the internal structure of your abdomen and the extent of any adhesions or scar tissue.
Ultrashape and other non-invasive liposuction alternatives, like CoolSculpting, may be considered, but their effectiveness could be limited by the presence of scar tissue and their inability to address significant weight issues or deeply adhered tissues. These methods typically work best for removing small amounts of fat without invasive surgery.

Given your medical history, especially with Hashimoto's and previous complications, any decision on cosmetic procedures should be made with caution. It's essential to consult with healthcare providers who specialize in post-surgical cases like yours to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of undergoing further procedures.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Without a proper physical exam it is difficult to give you an adequate answer.  However, if you do not have any hernias, liposuction can be performed safely.  Also, a modified tummy tuck may be possible, but this really depends upon your anatomy and old scar positions. Certainly, you are at higher risk if you have old surgical scars on your abdomen.
If you just have a small amount of skin along the lower abdomen that bothers you because of "folding over", it may be softened by an excision just in this area.  Again, it is hard to give you a definite answer without examining you first.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Usually, an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck can be performed with preexisting abdominal scars. If the preexisting scar is from a Caesarian section, then the same scar is used to begin the tummy tuck. The other common abdominal scar is an up and down scar from the belly button to the pubic area in the middle of the stomach. This vertical scar can typically be removed at the time of the tummy tuck. Of course, this is a question that can really only be answered specifically after examining you.

Liposuction with Existing Abdominal Surgery Scars?

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Liposuction with Existing Abdominal Surgery Scars?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.