Should I still be able to pinch fat 1 year after my mommy makeover?

After a Mommy Makeover, which often involves procedures like a tummy tuck and liposuction, the results can vary among individuals. Typically, the initial swelling subsides within a few months, and you'll start seeing the final results within about 6-12 months as your body fully heals.

However, being able to pinch some fat a year after surgery might still be normal, especially in areas that were not specifically targeted or where there might have been limited liposuction. It's important to understand that these procedures aren't meant to prevent future weight gain or changes in body composition.

If you have concerns about specific areas or the overall outcome of your surgery, it's best to follow up with your surgeon. They can evaluate your results, address any remaining concerns, and discuss any further options or recommendations to help you achieve your desired outcome.

Hello Mwinberry12,

Thank you for your question regarding your experience post-mommy makeover. It’s quite common to have concerns about the feel and appearance of your body after such a significant procedure, especially when considering the journey you’ve had, including the management of a seroma.

Being able to pinch fat on your abdomen and flank area one year after your mommy makeover isn't unusual. It's important to remember that a mommy makeover, which often includes a tummy tuck and liposuction, is designed to improve the contour of your body, not eliminate all fat. A certain amount of subcutaneous fat (the fat just beneath the skin) is normal and healthy, even after body contouring procedures.

Your ability to feel stronger during workouts and running is a positive sign, indicating that your body is healing well and responding to physical activity. This strength, particularly in the abdominal region, suggests that the muscle repair done during your tummy tuck is intact and functional.

It's also good to hear that you're conscious about your diet and exercise routine, as these factors play a crucial role in maintaining the results of your surgery. The presence of some pinchable fat doesn't negate the success of your procedure. Body composition varies greatly among individuals, and a small amount of pinchable fat can be normal.

Your upcoming appointment with your doctor is an excellent opportunity to address these concerns. They can assess your abdominal wall, the state of your muscle repair, and the fat distribution to give you a clearer understanding of your current state. Feel free to ask them any specific questions you may have about your recovery progress and any additional steps you might take to enhance your results.

If you have any further questions or need more guidance, please reach out.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

With a tummy tuck, it is not safe to try and remove all the fat because it could interfere with the blood supply to your skin. However, you can ask your doctor to now do liposuction to remove any excess fat safely.