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

Question

Tummy tuck done in December 2021. I had an infection 3 weeks post op. As I was dealing with that issue, I had a lump I noticed about 2 months later that the surgeon said was my hernia. I had my hernia surgery 6 weeks ago and the general surgeon said I have abdominal atrophy and I will have this lump forever. She said she can refer me to an abdominal surgeon if I have pain but she recommended never touching the area. How could this happen? And is it repairable?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

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.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

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

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

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

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Answer: Abdominal atrophy after TT and surgeon said I'll have this lump forever

Answer: Abdominal atrophy after TT and surgeon said I'll have this lump forever

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

Answers (8)

Answer: Abdominal atrophy after TT and surgeon said I'll have this lump forever

Answer: Abdominal atrophy after TT and surgeon said I'll have this lump forever

Answer: Lump

Answer: Lump

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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