8 months post-op - Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

Question

I'm 5’4 and 160 lbs. Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and repair? I’m 8 months post op.

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions and photos. Talking to your surgeon about your concerns is always the best place to start. From your photo, it appears the muscle repair was not completed from the bottom of your rib cage to your pubic bone. That being said, a proper exam would be needed to have a better idea. The abdominal wall can be weakened after pregnancy and (or) significant weight gain & loss. By repairing the muscle during a tummy tuck, not only does the appearance of your abdominal area improve, but your core strength as well. The repair of the muscle will cinch your waist like an inner corset, which will accentuate your curves. Liposuction will remove excess fat from unwanted areas with some skin retraction. Your expectations and health will dictate the best procedure(s) for you. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals. Best of luck!

Dhaval Patel MD 
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Chicago 
South Barrington 
Oakbrook
Orland Park

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photos and question.  The appearance of your upper abdomen is either due to the muscle wall not being repaired, the repair failing, or from visceral fat.  If it is from visceral/internal fat then weight loss should improve it.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Graceful867234,
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

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Graceful867234, thank you for your question. It is critical to consult the doctor that performed the surgical procedure. This is because he knows what type of technique he or she used and how he or she performed the procedure. Ask if a lower or total muscle tie was performed, and you will be able to clarify your doubt. For more information and recommendations, it is best to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

George Lefkovits, MD · Answer

There can be many reasons for a post-op upper abdominal bulge after a TT. It would be helpful to see the pre-op photos. But it could be due to Fat above the muscle in which case liposuction is the treatment. It could be due to Fat below the  abdominal muscle  which is not amenablwe to surgery. It may be due to insufficient approximation or recurrent sepration  of the abdominal muscles. You would best served by returning to your surgeon. good luck!

8 months post-op - Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair?

Answer: Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair?

Answer: 8 months post-op - Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

Answer: 8 months post-op - Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

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.

8 months post-op - Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair?

Answer: Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair?

Answer: 8 months post-op - Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

Answer: 8 months post-op - Why my upper ab bigger after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

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.