Does fascia stretch again? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck a year ago. Initially the results were amazing. My lower belly/vulva has distended and become like an over-full water balloon. I even lost 20lbs since surgery and it doesn’t help. I returned to my surgeon and was told my fascia has stretched. I wore my garment religiously, and only did walking and gentle exercise. If I revise, will the fascia just stretch out again, or will it stay tucked this time? I’m SO FRUSTRATED, and have tightness and pain around my belly button.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Genuine80021, thank you for your question regarding the concerns you have experienced after your tummy tuck, particularly regarding the distension of your lower belly and vulva.

Thank you for sharing your history and the details of your situation. It's understandable to feel frustrated, especially after observing excellent initial results. The distension you describe can indeed occur due to stretched fascia, despite losing weight and adhering to post-operative care recommendations.

Given your description and the fact that you have ruled out excess fat and skin, the issue seems to be related primarily to the weakening of the abdominal muscles and the overlying fascia. To address this, reinforcing the fascia during a revision surgery could be a viable solution. One effective method to reinforce your fascia is through the use of a large sheet of non-absorbable mesh, typically made of Prolene. The size of the mesh is usually around 8” x 10”, tailored to fit and provide optimal support to your abdomen. This mesh is contoured to your specific abdominal shape and anchored in place with permanent sutures, creating an additional wall of reinforcement that significantly minimizes the chance of future distension.

This approach is designed to provide a more durable result and reduce the likelihood of the fascia stretching out again. However, it's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using mesh with your surgeon, as all surgical interventions come with inherent risks.

Good luck as you consider this revision surgery. I hope this solution helps alleviate the frustration and discomfort you've been experiencing and that you achieve the results you desire.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes, the fascia can restretch.  This can occur with situations like weight gain and pregnancy.  If you revise your tummy tuck it can be corrected.  Your surgeon can examine you to determine what may be causing the tightness around your belly button.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Genuine80021,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, fascia can stretch. You might consider being checked for food allergies. If you have internal fullness from your colon swelling, surgery will not help this. You do not appear to be overweight.

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello; even though the rectus muscle plication was performed; in particular, bulging; can be seen in the lower abdomen. Because; unfortunately, in some patients, the abdominal muscles and fascia may be very thin and can be teared easily. In this case, after repairing for the abdominal muscles; called as a "prolene mesh" is applied; by placing a material; stability can be achieved.

Does fascia stretch again? (Photo)

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Does fascia stretch again? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Robustness Solution

Answer: Robustness Solution

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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