Will this go away eventually or will it always be like this? (Photo)

Question

I had surgery March 1st. At first the drains weren’t working so they took them out. Within 2 days, my stomach filled up again and the drains had to be put back in. My incision opened up and I had to pack it. It’s now so deformed and I’m wondering if it will go away eventually or if it’ll always be like this. If it’s going to stay like this, should I request a modification?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jgrandusky,
I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a tummy tuck surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides  you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding your abdomen and what to do about it. I'm sorry for what happened with your situation with the drains malfunctioning, necessitating removal, reinsertion, wound breakdown, and then wound packing. It takes scars approximately two years to completely remodel. After two years, the scar will not significantly improve. If the scar and end results are not to your satisfaction, I would consider a revision. During the revision, the scar can be revised. In addition, it looks like your lower abdomen from your umbilicus or belly button to the mons or pubic region is distended. In my opinion, this needs to be tightened. Specifically, the rectus-abdominis muscle in this region needs to be plicated or reinforced. In addition, this may be excess scar tissue. Nonetheless, it requires proper evaluation. Thank you for your question regarding your abdomen and what to do about it.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.
(“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. 
(“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Jeffrey Antimarino, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry.   At this time, you are still early in the healing process.   Have your surgeon check to be sure there isn't any residual fluid in the area.   If not, I would allow 3-4 months of healing and reassess.   If not improved, a small revision can take care of the contour issue.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I am sorry this happened to you. You are still healing. I want you make sure  no fluid collection in the bulge. Your PS would be able to tell. If no fluid I will recommend you wait 6 months and re evaluate. Revision can be performed if needed. Please continue to follow up with your PS

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Body contouring revision would be helpful with 360 circumferential liposuction and lowering of your incision line with a minor tummy tuck revisioin.The definitive correction for liposuction deformities requires the advanced technology of ultrasound assisted VASER liposuction. As an official trainer of VASER liposuction, I encounter suboptimal liposuction outcome referrals weekly. VASER liposuction has been the only modality that has consistently corrected liposuction caused deformities. VASER liposuction ensures a smooth contour regardless of severity of contour irregularities by virtue of being able to remove any and all remaining fat comprehensively and uniformly. Finally, when skin redundancy irregularities are observed, Renuvion technology can be simultaneously applied to tighten your skin to optimize your overall contour outcome. A Skype or Facetime consultation with a VASER specialist will help you get an accurate recommendation and pricing.
Respectfully, 
Arian Mowlavi MD, FACS
Realself 100 Hall of Fame Inductee

Will this go away eventually or will it always be like this? (Photo)

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