Is bulge above scar 7 months post mini tummy tuck & muscle repair normal? (Photos)

Question

I had a mini tummy tuck and muscle repair done about 7 months ago. I have two large bulges above my scar and am wondering if this is normal or if it’s a seroma or something else? All of The pants that I wore pre surgery don’t do up anymore and I haven’t gained any weight or changed my diet. The last three pictures that I’m including are the day before surgery

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello,I would first recommend an ultrasound scan of the lower abdomen. This will help determine the cause of the swelling in the lower abdomen (such as edema, fibrosis, or a seroma). Based on the ultrasound results, a revision surgery can be planned accordingly.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear AmyMck11,

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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting your question and including photos! It would be best for you to discuss these concerns with your surgeon as there could be surgical options to revise these areas. As a board certified plastic surgeon, surgical plans are made for scar revisions or liposuction revisions to areas that have more fullness after surgery.

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

It is difficult for me to determine what is muscle vs. subcutaneous fat. It looks like there is a combination of both. It would also be good to know what was done during the initial procedure along with an exam to help with decision making. An opinion from another local plastic surgeon that is experienced in Abdominal rejuvenation will help. Thank you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Go back to your surgeon and ask for an ultrasound to see if you have residual fluid. If present, the cavity may need to be removed as well as draining the fluid. If it is fat, liposuction can remove the excess.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

No the contour of your abdomen is not normal at seven months post op.  You may have developed a seroma which is a collection of fluid.  Visit with your surgeon for an evaluation.  An ultrasound can be performed to determine if a seroma is present.

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

No.  This is not normal.   It could be a seroma, but if you had a seroma that size, you would likely see and feel the fluid moving from side to side as you changed position.   It looks like either your muscle repair was not done or the sutures broke.   If it is a seroma, you just need a drain.  If it is a muscle issue, you would need a repeat Tummy Tuck.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on your nicely posted photos, I recommend obtaining an ultrasound of the lower abdomen to see if it’s residual fat, a seroma or laxity of the muscles. Based on those findings, most likely would need a full revision of the mini tummy tech score. Also do correct the lateral portions of the scar combined with liposuction Superficial and plasma. Fee from $5000-$8000. Best of virtual consult with.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

A mini tummy tuck does not allow for proper muscle tightening.
The procedure does not clear the belly button from the skin and therefore surgeons don’t have access to the abdominal wall.
A mini tummy tuck typically only treats skin laxity of the lower abdomen.
I suggest you follow up with your provider and discuss your concerns with him or her.
To make an accurate assessment regarding the outcome of any plastic surgery procedure we usually need to see a complete set of proper before and after pictures.
If you don’t have before, and after pictures, then ask your surgeon to forward the pictures they took.
It looks to me like you have muscle separation from your previous pregnancies and if you wanted a flat abdomen, you probably should’ve opted for a full tummy tuck.
 A Fluid collection should be fairly easy to determine physical examination.
Your surgeon should be helping you with your concerns. Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Is bulge above scar 7 months post mini tummy tuck & muscle repair normal? (Photos)

Answers (9)

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