Indent in stomach from liposuction. Is my only real option a fat transfer? (Photo)

Hi. Thank you for your question.
Based on review of your photos, I would recommend fat equalization under tumescent anesthesia prior to consider trying any type of fat transfer to this area. This is basically done with a special liposuction cannula as part of S.A.FE. liposuction techniques (without suction, since we don't want to remove any additional fat from this area) that will create 'micro fat grafts' from the surrounding areas that have more residual fat. The idea is that these 'micro fat grafts' will help level the appearance of this area relative to the surrounding abdominal wall.
Best of luck!
-Dr. Smith

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photos. Based on the images and your description, it appears that you have a noticeable indentation just above your belly button, likely caused by excessive fat removal in that area during your previous liposuction. This has created a shelf-like appearance, especially when viewed from the side.

To address this concern, there are three potential options:

Fat Transfer: This is the most effective and reliable option. A surgeon would harvest fat from another part of your body and carefully inject it into the indented area to restore volume and smooth out the contour. Fat transfer offers a natural result and is customizable to your specific needs.

Liposuction Adjustment: Another approach could involve further liposuctioning the fat below your belly button to better match the area above. However, this does not address the lost volume above your belly button and may not provide the symmetry or smoothness you're seeking.

Sculptra Injections: Sculptra, a collagen-stimulating injectable, could be used to add volume to the indented area. While it may improve the appearance to some extent, it is often unpredictable, temporary, and costly compared to fat transfer.

Of these options, fat transfer is the most reliable and long-lasting solution. It allows for precise sculpting and can create a balanced, natural appearance.

I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring to determine the best approach for you. With proper technique and planning, you can achieve a much smoother abdominal contour.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Denting can be due to over-suction of the dented area or under-suction of the surrounding area. Based on your photos, I appreciate the denting above your belly button which is likely to be due to over-suction. However, looking at the area below the belly button (on the third photo), it seems like that area can be further refined with liposuction.
Further in-person is required but if my presumption is correct, liposuction to area below belly button and using the fat to transfer to the dented area will be the best option. This will even out the dent and further refine the region below the belly button.