I had a full Tummy Tuck about 2 years ago, 9 months after I had twins via C-section. I was very unhappy with my results, because from the belly button down, it was really tight, but the area above my belly button still protruded with a diastasis. It also looked weird, especially after I ate. My plastic surgeon said he couldn't fix it.
Anyways, I am now 23 weeks pregnant again, and I'm hoping that it will loosen up my lower muscles to "match" the laxity of my upper abdominals. After this baby, I'm going to having a tubal ligation, and I want a "pretty" stomach. What are my options for addressing these Is it possible to just pull down any loose skin and make a "real" looking belly button?
March 14, 2012
Answer: Revision of Mommy Make Over
I can think of three likely scenarios to result in what you describe: tight lower abdomen but bulging upper abdomen. This usually happens by either performing a "mini tummy tuck" that is only tightening the area just below the umbilicus or else disproportional tightening the lower abdominal muscles more than the upper ones, or a dehiscence (repair came apart) on the upper abdomen. When the lower abdominal muscles are tightened this displaces the abdominal contents towards the top causing it to protrude. In general, most cases both the bulging and your belly button can be improved but without examining you I cannot answer for sure.
Larry S. Nichter, MD, FACS
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March 14, 2012
Answer: Revision of Mommy Make Over
I can think of three likely scenarios to result in what you describe: tight lower abdomen but bulging upper abdomen. This usually happens by either performing a "mini tummy tuck" that is only tightening the area just below the umbilicus or else disproportional tightening the lower abdominal muscles more than the upper ones, or a dehiscence (repair came apart) on the upper abdomen. When the lower abdominal muscles are tightened this displaces the abdominal contents towards the top causing it to protrude. In general, most cases both the bulging and your belly button can be improved but without examining you I cannot answer for sure.
Larry S. Nichter, MD, FACS
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June 7, 2010
Answer: Tummy tuck revisionary surgery
Congratulations! Once you have decided that you are done having children and completed your tubaligation procedure, consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss the best and safest possible options for you. Pregnancy can affect results of your previous surgery, so depending on what you would need to have done, you may need a full tummy tuck procedure done again resulting in a full recovery of 4 weeks. For more information regarding mommy makeover procedures, please check out and compare before and after photos of patients.
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June 7, 2010
Answer: Tummy tuck revisionary surgery
Congratulations! Once you have decided that you are done having children and completed your tubaligation procedure, consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss the best and safest possible options for you. Pregnancy can affect results of your previous surgery, so depending on what you would need to have done, you may need a full tummy tuck procedure done again resulting in a full recovery of 4 weeks. For more information regarding mommy makeover procedures, please check out and compare before and after photos of patients.
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January 18, 2009
Answer: Tummy tuck redo revision is possible I believe that a tummy tuck revisions is possible. In regards to your belly button that is more difficult to say. Twin pregnancies are devastating to the abodminal wall causing umbilical hernia like conditions ("outie") that can be difficult to correct. As has been previously suggested, obtain a copy of your operative report. A full tummy tuck may mean different things to differentl surgeons. The knowledge of your previous technique may benefit you and the next surgeon. I have had occasion to perform tubal ligations and tummy tucks together. Perhaps you should request a referral from your OB-Gyne to a plastic surgeon with whom they have worked. They may be able to vouch for his/her results. I hope all proceeds well and wish you the best of health in your delivery.
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January 18, 2009
Answer: Tummy tuck redo revision is possible I believe that a tummy tuck revisions is possible. In regards to your belly button that is more difficult to say. Twin pregnancies are devastating to the abodminal wall causing umbilical hernia like conditions ("outie") that can be difficult to correct. As has been previously suggested, obtain a copy of your operative report. A full tummy tuck may mean different things to differentl surgeons. The knowledge of your previous technique may benefit you and the next surgeon. I have had occasion to perform tubal ligations and tummy tucks together. Perhaps you should request a referral from your OB-Gyne to a plastic surgeon with whom they have worked. They may be able to vouch for his/her results. I hope all proceeds well and wish you the best of health in your delivery.
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