Sad about tummy tuck results: Is there a solution? (Photos)

Question

I think it should be clear by my pictires why I'm so unhappy with my results. I had more confidence before the surgery, so I do regret getting the tummy tuck, but I'd still like to fix what I dislike. I can't go to my surgeon because he's proved to be self righteous by ignoring my concerns and brushing me off. What if anything could be done to fix these results?

Jason E. Leedy, MD · Answer

The scar is high.  That's unfortunate.  A revision abdominoplasty is possible.  In this procedure the incision is just made lower and the tissue is re-elevated off of the muscles and pulled down tight.  This is the same as a mini-tummy tuck.  Enough time has to pass for some laxity to develop in the lower abdominal skin.  On the sides, the scars can be revised as well.  An in-person consultation is always needed to determine if the procedure is right for you.

Robert Frank, MD · Answer

Agree with the other docs who have suggested that lowering your scar would help a good bit. Also wonder if you had any liposuction of your flanks. They look full and could benefit from some attention.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

The scar extended slightly higher laterally than ideal.  This can be corrected by revising the scar so it runs lower on your abdominal wall.  It will have to be lengthened to accomplish this.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns after tummy tuck surgery. Physical examination would be necessary to advise you specifically but, based on your photographs, I think that there is very likely room for improvement.   Depending on your physical examination and concerns, additional maneuvers that may be helpful will likely include additional skin excision (lowering of scar), liposuction surgery, and additional muscle plication (if muscle laxity is present).
 
 Make sure, if you choose to proceed with surgery, your plastic surgeon has significant/demonstrable experience helping patients achieve the types of outcomes you would be pleased with.
 Best wishes.

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

We are not seeing your before pictures, but the center looks good to me, the sides do have a high curvilinear scar.  Revision would be helpful to try to lower the scar on the sides but I would wait at least  months or even a year, to allow skin the relax and stretch.   It is always appropriate to go back to the initial surgeon to discuss revision as they may be able to offer it to you at a lower cost.  Revisions are worthwhile and may help you feel happy with your results.  Good luck!

Sad about tummy tuck results: Is there a solution? (Photos)

Answers (5)