Bulges after fleur de lis tummy tuck - what can they be and what is causing this? (photos)

Question

I had a Tummy Tuck 7 months ago. When I lay down, my stomach is flat. However, when I stand up, I have 4 bulges on either side of the fluer de-lis incision. 2 right below the ribcage and 2 more on either side of the belly button (The top is about the size of a racketball and the bottom is almost the size of baseballs.) My PS keeps saying I am just getting fat again. However, I have had these since surgery. They where there when they pulled my drains out at 1 week PO.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Practical831130,
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

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Practical831130 in Athens, Texas,

Thank you for your question about the bulges you are experiencing after your Fleur de Lis tummy tuck, including their potential causes and solutions. Congratulations on undergoing the Fleur de Lis tummy tuck. It's a significant procedure, and I'm sure it has improved your appearance compared to before the surgery.

In a Fleur de Lis tummy tuck, a horizontal incision is made to remove excess fat in the lower abdomen, while a vertical incision from the sternum to the pubic region eliminates fat around the belly button. Typically, this procedure also involves repairing the rectus abdominis muscles. From the pictures you've provided and the details you mentioned, it seems these bulges are likely due to excess fat, as there does not appear to be much loose abdominal skin. Since the fat has been present "since surgery," it is probably retained fat rather than weight regain.

If the issue is indeed an accumulation of fat, liposuction could be a viable option for removal. Revision or touch-up liposuction after a Fleur de Lis tummy tuck can be performed under various anesthesia types, ranging from local to general, depending on your comfort level. This procedure can potentially be completed in the office, depending on the anesthesia used. Whether the touch-up liposuction is done in the office or in a surgery center, it will be an outpatient procedure. Please allow yourself a week for recovery, and note that drains will not be necessary.

I hope this information helps clarify the nature of the bulges you're experiencing after your Fleur de Lis tummy tuck, their potential causes, and the methods to address them. Good luck in your continued recovery and treatment.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It may be residual fatty pockets causing the contours that concern you.  Liposuction is an option to improve the appearance. Your photos suggest that you may have had significant skin laxity prior to the surgery.  A revision of the area should help your results.

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Your question is difficult to answer without reading the operative report and understanding what was done. Also, it would be beneficial to see your prep photos. In general, the abdominal muscles are tightened at the time of surgery. Sometimes bulges of the abdomen can occur with weakness of these muscles. I would recommend you discuss this with your surgeon since they would be most expert in making the diagnosis.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You probably have some residual fat which has been present. Not all the fat can be removed at the same time as the tuck for safety reasons to your skin. However, you can have liposuction now to decrease the bulges.

Bulges after fleur de lis tummy tuck - what can they be and what is causing this? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Bulges post surgery

Answer: Bulges post surgery

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

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Bulges after fleur de lis tummy tuck - what can they be and what is causing this? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Bulges post surgery

Answer: Bulges post surgery

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

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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.