What caused pockets of skin on love handles? Should I get a revision? (photos)

Question

7/31/21 surgery. Looked good post op for several months. Never have quit wearing the shapewear garment even. But 8 months & $12k later, I can’t even tell..

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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From your photos it appears you would benefit from further skin excision and liposuction of the hips and flanks.  This should help improve the overall contour.  See a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, we occasionally see similar delayed result of poor skin laxity after extended TT in patient who had significant weight loss; their skin is stretched and elasticity is minimal. Although result may look good immediately after surgery, it does not last for a long time in particular if there is a lot of residual fat deposits. Performing aggressive liposuction before TT may be good way to avoid this. In your case, both liposuction and revision of TT (including vertical skin removal ??) may be needed. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear TexanAF,
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

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

It appears that you need revision aggressive liposuction of your flanks/lower back.  The anterior abdomen would look significantly better with a Fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty.
Dr. Taranow

What caused pockets of skin on love handles? Should I get a revision? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Flank issues

Answer: Flank issues

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.

What caused pockets of skin on love handles? Should I get a revision? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Flank issues

Answer: Flank issues

Browse related questions

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.