Abdominal atrophy after TT and surgeon said I'll have this lump forever - is it repairable? (Photos)

Hello @Intuitive765815, thank you for your question. It is important to thoroughly analyze your case; to have a consultation, take into consideration age, needs and expectations. For more information and recommendations, it is best to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Thank you for your question regarding abdominal atrophy after a tummy tuck and hernia repair. It is difficult to say precisely what you have or will need and if this is permanent. We need more diagnostic information. First, I would suggest an ultrasound or an MRI of this region. If it is a recurrent hernia or weakening of the abdominal wall, I would suggest insertion of a large piece of mesh. This will help flatten the abdominal wall even if there is abdominal atrophy. Using a large piece of mesh, a plastic surgeon can spam the area of defect or atrophy. This can help to flatten the area. I would not give up hope. I would seek as many consultations as you can until you find a surgeon willing to work up your case with an MRI. Thank you for your question regarding abdominal atrophy after a tummy tuck and hernia repair.

I have seen this type of “lumps” as the result of a well defined area of abdominal wall fascia weakness and thinning. So I have performed selective fascia reinforcement using the same tissues and it has worked very well.
You have two weak areas both sides of the midline and both should be addressed and also the undermining of the skin will help to remove partially the retracted scar of the abdomen and take advantage and revise belly button.
Be encouraged!!! There are great chances to improve what you have already.
Dr. Cárdenas

After physical examination and possibly ultrasound confirms this is a muscle wall contour defect, a surgery can be performed to flatten it. This would be the time that your scar can be revised and lowered.

Dear Intuitive765815,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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

Because of the complex issue that you've described it's difficult to say if the area could be improved without first having an exam and further information. It may be the area could be addressed by reinforcing the tissues. I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon for an evaluation. Further testing such as a CT scan may be helpful. Your surgeon will advise you on next steps after this visit.

This is repairable or can be improved. Best to obtain an ultrasound examination to check the "lump" consistency. Then surgery to release the tissue with liposuction of "lump" and advancement flap of abdomen. Best to virtual consult with....

Your situation is complex and re-operating is going to be moderately high risk and be difficult because of scar tissue and previous surgeries.
That is not to say that a hernia cannot be repaired or improved upon.
Sometimes it’s better to leave good enough alone. Do you know firsthand what it means to have surgical complications.
Plastic surgeons often get involved with complex hernia repairs that are beyond the scope of general surgeons.
Plastic surgeons who do more reconstructive surgery may be well-versed in reviewing your situation. You may want to consider getting a second opinion at an academic Medical Center if there is one close to where you live
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD