No difference in my stomach except for scar tissue and keloids. Botched procedure? What can I do?

Question

I am 52 years old. 5’6, 163lbs. I am in good health. I had a botched liposuction over 12 years ago. I went in for lipo to correct the lumps and unevenness of the belly. The upper part of my abdomen was big and the lower part was flat and lumpy. The first surgeon said I needed a tummy tuck to repair the abdominal wall. I am 6 months post op and there is no difference with my stomach except for scar tissues and keloids. what do I do? I am devastated.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

I understand your disappointment and frustration, but I cannot offer any recommendation in the absence of photos. Typically, I would recommend discussing your concerns with your surgeon to see if you can come to a solution that is agreeable to all. A second option would be to seek a second opinion with a board-certified plastic surgeon. And of course you can always repost in this forum with photos.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding your concerns after tummy tuck surgery. I can understand how frustrating and disappointing it must be to go through surgery with hopes of improvement, only to be left with scar tissue, keloids, and minimal change to your abdomen.

It’s important to note that while tummy tucks are generally effective in addressing issues like loose skin and uneven contours, outcomes can vary based on the complexity of the original condition and the surgical approach. Given your history of a botched liposuction, your case might have required a more intricate repair, which can sometimes lead to complications like scarring and keloid formation.

Moving forward, I recommend seeking a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in revision surgery. A second opinion can help assess the extent of the scar tissue, keloids, and any residual abdominal wall issues, and they can offer solutions tailored to your needs. Treatments such as steroid injections, silicone sheets, laser therapy, or even revision surgery can be effective in reducing the appearance of scars and keloids. If your abdomen still has lumps, unevenness, or unresolved issues, another surgical procedure might be necessary, but this should be approached with caution and a thorough understanding of the potential risks and benefits.

It's crucial to work closely with a surgeon who listens to your concerns and offers a comprehensive plan to achieve the results you initially desired. While your current situation is challenging, there are options available to improve both the physical and emotional impacts of your experience.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Kind698691,
I understand your concern. 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry that you are disappointed by your results.  I encourage you to begin by discussing your concerns with your surgeon.  Review your before and after photos together and talk about what issues you are experiencing and what your options are.  If you are unsatisfied or unsure after that visit, seek a second opinion from an experienced board certified plastic surgeon near you.

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

It is difficult to give you much advice about your disappointing surgery without seeing any photos.  Abdominoplasty can only help a bump be liposuction result to a certain extent.  It can give you many other improvement though.  I could give you more information with photographs!

No difference in my stomach except for scar tissue and keloids. Botched procedure? What can I do?

Answers (7)

Answer: What can I do?

Answer: What can I do?

Answer: Disappointed with tummy tuck

Answer: Disappointed with tummy tuck

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

No difference in my stomach except for scar tissue and keloids. Botched procedure? What can I do?

Answers (7)

Answer: What can I do?

Answer: What can I do?

Answer: Disappointed with tummy tuck

Answer: Disappointed with tummy tuck

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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