How can I fix an abdominal shelf deformity after tummy tuck?

Question

I had a tummy tuck and umbilical hernia repair in 2017. I should have skipped the tuck since realistically, it wasn't really needed. Regardless, here we are and I am now left with a HUGE shelf. How can I fix this or minimize the thickness of the scar?

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

An "abdominal shelf deformity" after a tummy tuck is not a common outcome and may be a result of various factors such as surgical technique, healing, or other individual factors. If you are experiencing concerns or dissatisfaction with the results of your tummy tuck, it's important to consult with your plastic surgeon to discuss your specific situation. Here are some potential considerations:

Follow-Up Consultation:

Schedule a follow-up consultation with your plastic surgeon to express your concerns and discuss the appearance of the abdominal shelf.
Provide details about when you first noticed the deformity and any other relevant information.
Scar Revision:

If the abdominal shelf is associated with scarring, your surgeon may discuss scar revision procedures to improve the appearance of the scar.
Scar revision may involve excising or modifying the existing scar to achieve a more favorable outcome.
Revision Surgery:

In some cases, revision surgery may be considered to address the deformity and improve the overall aesthetic result.
The specific nature of the revision surgery will depend on the factors contributing to the abdominal shelf, and your surgeon will guide you through the available options.
Consideration of Other Factors:

Your surgeon may evaluate other factors, such as the presence of excess fat or laxity in specific areas, and recommend additional procedures like liposuction or muscle tightening.
Realistic Expectations:

It's important to have realistic expectations about the results of revision surgery. While improvements can often be made, perfection may not always be achievable.
Second Opinion:

If you are uncertain about the recommendations or if you are considering revision surgery, it's reasonable to seek a second opinion from another board-certified plastic surgeon.
Remember that every surgical outcome can vary, and factors such as individual healing, anatomy, and the surgical technique can influence the results. Open and honest communication with your plastic surgeon is key to addressing your concerns and finding appropriate solutions. If you've experienced a complication or are dissatisfied with the results, discussing it with your surgeon is the first step toward understanding your options for improvement.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear catfran1719,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did not post photos, so I would suggest going to a plastic surgeon and being examined and discussing your concerns and options.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The correction of the abdominal shelf that concerns you will depend on the underlying cause.  If it is scar tissue then a scar revision should improve the contour.  If it is excess skin, then excision should take care of it.  If it is a fatty pocket then some liposuction should help to flatten it.  Visit with your surgeon for an evaluation to determine how to proceed.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To make an assessment on the app, the plastic surgery procedure we generally always need to see proper before and after pictures. If you don’t have before and after pictures and ask your surgeon to forward the pictures they touch. Without seeing pictures, we can’t really begin to make an assessment or give you quality recommendations.
Visible scars generally fall into one or more of three different categories.
Scars can be hypertrophied, hyperpigmented, or can widen overtime. Depending on what the scar problem is helps decide what the best treatment option is. I suggest you follow up with your plastic surgeon who did the procedure and ask him or her for assistance.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

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