Lump above belly button, bumpy, scar uneven - do I need revision? (Photos)

Question

Hi Not happy with results after tummy tuck. I had a full tummy tuck with muscle and hernia repair 6 months ago. The problem is I feel like something isn't right. I have a little lump just above my belly button where my hernia was. My stomach is never flat and seems quite bumpy. I also don't like the unevenness of my hips or scar line. I'm wanting to know if I need revision surgery. I have been back to my surgeon who didn't examine me just look from afar and said it was a good result. Many thanks Caz

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello CarolineCaz in Great Britain. Thank you for your question regarding your concerns post-tummy tuck, and I appreciate the pictures and history you’ve shared.

Overall, I believe you have an excellent result from your tummy tuck. The excess skin and fat have been removed, and your abdomen appears almost flat. The small lump above your belly button is likely due to scar tissue around the permanent sutures used during your hernia repair. This is a common occurrence and does not typically require revision unless it becomes painful or grows significantly.

Regarding the unevenness of your scar line, correcting scar asymmetry surgically can be very challenging. Instead, I recommend treatments like FRAXEL laser, which can help reduce the appearance of scarring and create a smoother look. With time, scars generally improve in appearance, especially with proper aftercare.

If the lumps or bumps on your abdomen bother you, you might consider VASER liposuction to refine the contour. However, keep in mind that the level of flatness achievable by a tummy tuck has limitations, particularly when addressing underlying issues like hernias or muscle repair.

It’s also important to set realistic expectations for what revision surgery or non-surgical treatments can achieve. If you remain dissatisfied, you may benefit from seeking a second opinion from another board-certified plastic surgeon to assess your specific concerns in detail.

Good luck, and I hope this information has helped answer your questions regarding your tummy tuck results.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Abdominoplasty scars can be quite complex, ranging from the simple hypertrophic scar to a multiplane inflamed keloid. Pigmentation, discoloration, chronic inflammation, scar visibility can all occur in the short term. We begin each treatment with combination therapy using Yellow broadband BBL, Vbeam, fractional erbium, intralesional IIT, and scar modulation. Start with a combination of Plato's Scar Serum massaged twice daily after one week of epithelialization followed by Luminase/Exfolase. Scar consultation and revision may be recommended.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

Because you have a number of concerns, perhaps you should get a second opinion from another plastic surgeon. From the photographs, it seems your muscle can be tighter. The uneven scar may be acceptable after a year or 2 when the dark redness will probably improve. Without a good exam, it is difficult to give you any ideas or advice regarding the fullness above your bellybutton.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear carolinecaz,
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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry you are unhappy with your tummy tuck results.  If you are not getting your questions addressed by your surgeon you may want to seek a second opinion.  Be sure to take preoperative photos with you to the appointment.  After an evaluation it can be determined the best way to address your concerns.

Lump above belly button, bumpy, scar uneven - do I need revision? (Photos)

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Answer: Lump above belly button, bumpy, scar uneven

Answer: Lump above belly button, bumpy, scar uneven

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Lump above belly button, bumpy, scar uneven - do I need revision? (Photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Lump above belly button, bumpy, scar uneven

Answer: Lump above belly button, bumpy, scar uneven

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

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Recommended reading

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.