"Alien" like a bulge on stomach that doesn't want to go away post TT. (10-10.5 months post-op). What is going on? (Photos)

Question

Had a massive dogear post TT, muscle repair & panniculectomy. My surgeon doesn't do lipo at the same time. A weird "alien" developed basically since the beginning. As my muscles come back it's getting worse. I body build, track macro's etc, I haven't gained weight, I can't lose either. I've had 2 rds of lipo in office now. This time on my flanks after the first one didn't get rid of the muffin top issue. Finally, get rid of that and now this alien is appearing worse than before. What is this?

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

You have certainly documented your progress well in photographs. Even so, the photographs are very difficult to decipher because they are quite small. I cannot give you any recommendations except to visit your plastic surgeon again and discuss what the final expectations are, or how the result may be improved.

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, your description and pictures do not clearly describe where this bulge is.  There are a couple pics that show a roll of excess skin in your oblique region, extending around your waistline.   If this is your concern, this cannot be fixed with diet or exercise and will likely be made worse as you lose more weight.   This is just excess skin that will have to be removed by revising your tummy tuck scar on that side and most likely extending further around your waistline.   But, as said, your pics and description of an alien do not clearly describe if this is the issue you are referring to or not.

Mark Eberbach, MD · Answer

You posted many photos, but none very helpful to help with a diagnosis.I suggest you take and post some standard photos, before also if you have them. Front, oblique, side.Also perhaps you could define what you mean by Alien.Good luck

Chen Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your detailed notes, pictures and question. The photos show the expected scarring and contours expected after a tummy tuck. I suspect the your desired outcome exceeds what is possible with a typical tummy tuck. While you can re-discuss your expectations with your treating surgeon, it might be worthwhile to seek an second opinion with another reputable plastic surgeon.

"Alien" like a bulge on stomach that doesn't want to go away post TT. (10-10.5 months post-op). What is going on? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Your expectation may exceed what tummy tuck has to offer.

Answer: Your expectation may exceed what tummy tuck has to offer.

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

"Alien" like a bulge on stomach that doesn't want to go away post TT. (10-10.5 months post-op). What is going on? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Your expectation may exceed what tummy tuck has to offer.

Answer: Your expectation may exceed what tummy tuck has to offer.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.