What are my best options for tummy tuck revision? (Photo)

Question

My vertical scar ended up much higher than discussed and did not heal well. I am also unhappy with my belly button and was hoping the scar would be more hidden. My surgeon was very defensive and made me uncomfortable discussing revision.He said if I wanted the vertical lowered I would need a mini tummy tuck, but that he would be willing to revise the vertical scar. I would like a second opinion on options. If the scar could be lowered an inch I’d be happy. Can my bellybutton be redone? Thank you

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

It is best to wait a year from your surgery before considering scar revision.  If you have waited that long it does appear you are a candidate for this procedure.  If you are not comfortable with your surgeon, see another board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

In anatomy there are not normal or abnormal, just different. 
Your preop belly button position is very high on your abdomen for that reason you needed the vertical incision. 
Massage both the vertical and horizontal incisions in order to make softer the scars and that will help to lower your TT scar. I consider after one year postop your scar may be ready to lower the position and shorten the vertical. 
Definitely belly button may be revised, it will just end up with a little lollipop pop incision to reduce de diameter of the belly button and hide the scar. 
Be encouraged. 
Dr. Cárdenas

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Sarah1516,
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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you have some excess skin, then the vertical scar could remove decreased. However, if the skin is still tight, I would do micro-needling for now.

What are my best options for tummy tuck revision? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision

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 are my best options for tummy tuck revision? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision

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.