Help!! Weird lumps on sides of stomach

Question

I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 20 years old. I had to have major abdominal surgery 13 years ago to remove 12cm tumor. Since then I've had 2 kids and my last baby was two years. Since then I've had constant pain on the sides of stomach and lower back. When I lean back I get these bulges on both sides of my stomach. What could be causing it and if there is any type of plastic surgery that could fix it. I would love a nice flat tummy. I haven't had one since I was 20 years old : ( Thanks

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Hello! A plastic surgeon should be able to help you. I would suggest that you get an imaging study prior to meeting with the surgeon - your gyn or primary care provider should order it. You want to rule out a hernia or old scar tissue that might be present - to identify why the contour irregularity is there. The plastic surgeon may recommend a general surgeon get involved as well.

Mark K. Markarian, MD, MSPH, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.   First off though, congratulations on recovering from ovarian cancer, and having your children.  From your photographs, it appears that you have some abdominal wall weakness consistent with possible diastasis or a hernia, something that is not unexpected after having surgery for an ovarian tumor and childbirth (x 2).  An exam in person would better diagnose you.  Either way, since you are symptomatic, health insurance should cover this.Good luck.Mark K Markarian, MD, MSPHHarvard-trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

William A. Terranova, MD (retired) · Answer

You have either an area of muscle wall weakness or a true hernia due most probably to a combination of past abdominal surgery and pregnancies.  As you are symptomatic, a surgical repair is indicated.  This can be done either by a general surgeon or plastic surgeon.. But be sure that whichever individual you choose has specific training and experience in handling this particular problem.  The techniques involved are not part of everyone's  tool kit!.  Good luck.

Help!! Weird lumps on sides of stomach

Answers (3)

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