Failed muscle repair from tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I know it's hard to say without examining me in person and yes, I will ask my surgeon when I see him, but I'm wondering if the MR in my TT failed. When I bend backwards a little, I get a vertical bulge/ridge to the left of my belly button. I'm 10 weeks post and still swelling. Is there anything else it could be? I tried to take a picture from above, but it isn't easy to capture. First photo is before and immediately afterward, other two from tonight.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs.  My first question would be whether this ridge or bulge has been a recent development or have you noticed it immediately after surgery?  If this has been a recent development it's possible that your repair somehow loosened, but common things being common, it more likely is a small fluid collection, termed a seroma, that can be treated in your surgeon's office.  Only an in-person examination will really be able to identify the cause of your bulge.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photos.  It seems that this is a not uncommon question.  There are several possible sources of upper abdominal bulge after tummy tuck including:loose upper abdominal wall (under tightening, or failed tightening)excess fatseroma/pseudo-bursaA close evaluation of your recovery as well as an exam would help determine which of these may be the source.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Derby Sang Caputo, MD · Answer

It is very difficult to say anything without seeing you in person and also considering you are still in a post op phase where you can still experience some swelling. I would definitely  recommend you to see your surgeon and asks him/her what is happening. Best of luck

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and the pictures. This swelling could have different etiologies, such as post operative edema (not as likely at this point), seroma, hematoma, dehiscence of the fascial sutures, etc. It is not possible to make the diagnosis without an in-person examination. Having said that, you are still in the inflammatory phase of healing.  The initial phase after surgery, within the first three months, there is a period of inflammation and scarring that must occur in order for you to heal. Over ensuing months these processes will subside and the inflammatory process gives way to scar softening and remodeling. It is during this time that you will start to see your results appear. I tell my patients that they will not see their final results for at least 6 months.I would recommend close follow up with your plastic surgeon as they are in the best position to evaluate and treat you during your post operative recovery. This will allow you and your surgeon the chance to discuss your concerns and help allay any anxieties you may be experiencing.I hope this helps. Good luck.

Todd C. Case, MD · Answer

It is unlikely, the "muscle repair" failed unless the fascia (covering of the muscle) was over tightened and under too much tension.  The photos are not adequate to make any determination.  The bulge could be a fluid or blood collection (seroma of hematoma).  Fluid collections usually feel a bit like a water bed.  You will need to be evelauated by your surgeon to make a determination.

Roberto Guerrero, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

That could happen,because after the tummy tuck,we repair the abdominal muscles.some time if you do ant effort or cough you might brake sutures for repair.In you case you have to redo it and make a tummy tuck again

Failed muscle repair from tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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