Solid lump one year after tummy tuck - could this be scar tissue? (Photo)

Question

I had my tummy tuck a year ago and this lump started surfacing. I went to my surgeon and he thought it may be a cyst because it seemed a bit squishy and slightly moveable. He inserted a needle into the lump to try and extract any fluids but it was solid. He prescribed antibiotics and wants to see me in two weeks and he said he wanted to make a small incision underneath it and try and pull out whatever it is. Do you have any ideas what this lump could be? Maybe scar tissue?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photo. Based on your description and the image provided, this lump could indeed be a cyst, a seroma (though less likely after a year), or possibly scar tissue. Given that your surgeon found the lump to be solid and was unable to extract any fluid with a needle, scar tissue or a benign growth like a cyst seems more likely.

I agree with your surgeon's recommendation to remove the lump. This is the best way to definitively determine its nature through pathology and to alleviate any discomfort or concern you may have. The small incision required to remove the lump should heal well, and your overall results from the tummy tuck are unlikely to be affected.

If the lump is scar tissue, it can be managed during removal, and steps can be taken to minimize further scarring. If it turns out to be a cyst or another benign issue, removal should resolve the problem completely. You're in good hands with your surgeon’s proactive approach, and it’s great that they are closely monitoring the situation.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear zombie kat,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

It seems like your doctor is going about things in a very appropriate way. The lump could be a number of things, including fat necrosis, and possibly can be removed through an existing scar. Hang in there with your surgeon!

Jared Blau, MD · Answer

Thank you for the photo, it may be your body creating scar tissue around the stitches used for muscle repair

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to determine what the lump could be without an examination.  You are doing the correct thing by visiting with your surgeon who can further advise you.  An ultrasound or other tests may be needed.  If it is a cyst your surgeon can excise it.

Solid lump one year after tummy tuck - could this be scar tissue? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: A few possibilities

Answer: A few possibilities

Answer: Solid lump

Answer: Solid lump

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.

Solid lump one year after tummy tuck - could this be scar tissue? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: A few possibilities

Answer: A few possibilities

Answer: Solid lump

Answer: Solid lump

Browse related questions

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.