Post body lift surgery, not happy with results. How to fix it? (photos)

Question

TT then BL.unhappy Scar– RHS the path suddenly changes direction. surgeon says everything correct and it might take time for the scar to settle in its final location. not sure Edema RHS-an injury to the area shouldnt have happened as wasnt acting outside advice. resulted in edema. told it would fully settle by now. It hasnt. Finish - hoped for everything to tuck in nicely 360 Right belly - more fat than left thoughts? How to fix it? What went wrong? esp the scar path? surgeon did good job? Tx

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

It takes months for swelling and scars to mature to their final appearance. However, once they are stable and mature (9-12 months), if there is contour irregularity or scar asymmetry, a revision can correct it.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

How long ago was your procedure?  If you are under a year you may want to give it more time to settle.  If you are over a year you can consider a revision in order to improve your results.  More information is needed to determine what the swelling may be from.  Have you been using scar treatments?  When used consistently they can help scars to fade and heal favorably.  If after a year you are still concerned you can consider scar revision as well.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Affectionate612482, thank you for your question regarding your body lift surgery and how to fix your results.  I am sorry you are not happy with your results.  Swelling or edema after a 360 circumferential, lower body lift is expected. Most swelling from a 360 body lift resolves after approximately eight weeks. However, if liposuction is combined with a lower body lift, swelling can remain persistent for up to six to eight weeks. Even minimal activity can aggravate the swelling. For my patients  after a lower body lift, I suggest compression garments for the first six weeks. If you have continued swelling after six weeks, you need to continue wearing your compression garment for as long as you need until the swelling resolves. Before you jump into any surgical revisions, I would be sure you are at least six to eight months after your lower body lift. Most swelling issues, resolved by then. If you are now eight months postop, I would suggest you could undergo revision. If you wanted you could revise of the body lift or tummy tuck scar.  You could  also revise the tummy tuck to eliminate more abdominal skin and fat. I think your plastic surgeon did an excellent job with your lower body lift. Overall you look great.  I hope this information helps you.  I specialize in reconstructive plastic surgery after weight loss.  If you have any more questions regarding the lower body lift, 360 circumferential lower body lift, belt lipectomy, belt abdominoplasty, or belt dermolipectomy please contact my office. Since the body lift is a big procedure, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing the lower body lift. Do your research.  Make sure they have performed at least 100 circumferential lower body lift surgeries and have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.   If you cannot find an experienced, lower body lift surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

There are always chances to improve. 
I would recommend to do liposuction to abdomen, reduce the depth of the belly button, revision of the scar , possibly lower the incision and remove a bit of skin and make more appealing the current position. 
Be encouraged. 
Dr. Cárdenas

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Affectionate612482,
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

Post body lift surgery, not happy with results. How to fix it? (photos)

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Post body lift surgery, not happy with results. How to fix it? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Chances to improve

Answer: Chances to improve

Answer: Body lift results

Answer: Body lift results

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Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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