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

Question

I had liposuction over 2 years ago and I have this deep indent just above my belly button. It’s more noticeable in person than in the photos, especially from the side view as my belly button almost appears like a shelf. I’m guessing the dr took too much fat from that spot because it feels like there’s literally no fat under the skin. I’ve tried BodyFX around it and morpheus 8 to smooth and tighten the whole area which I think helped but not much. Is my only real option a fat transfer?

Roger Smith, MD, FACS · Answer

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

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Kenneth Brito, MD · Answer

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.

Anuj Purbey, MBBS · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your experience. It sounds like you've already taken proactive steps to address the issue with BodyFX and Morpheus 8 treatments, but it seems like you're still not satisfied with the results.

Considering the indent and the lack of fat in the affected area, a fat transfer could indeed be a viable option. Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or fat injection, involves transferring fat from one part of the body to another to improve contour irregularities and add volume.

Before proceeding with any additional treatments, I would recommend consulting with a board-certified vaser surgeon or dermatologist who specializes in body contouring and liposuction revisions. They can evaluate your specific situation, discuss your concerns and goals, and recommend the most suitable treatment options for achieving the desired outcome.

During your consultation, your provider may also explore other potential solutions, such as dermal fillers or surgical revision procedures, depending on the severity and cause of the indent.

It's essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to ensure you fully understand your options, potential risks, and expected outcomes before making any decisions.

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello; excessing fat, was removed from the belly button and unilaterally. However, the main problem is that; there is an adhesion of the subcutaneous tissue to the base. Due to that adhesion, simply giving of fat; will not be enough. When you move, since the skin cannot act due to the shrinkage; pitting will appear. In the area attached to the base; it needs to be liberalized. Initially, Vaser is applied to the area; where there is adhesion in the upper abdomen zone; I recommend for loosening it. In the same session, Vaserlipo is implemented on the lower abdomen field and the fatty areas of the upper abdomen; with a sunken-looking upper abdominal area; the amount of fat can be tried to be equalized. Afterwards, if the pit is still noticeable; fat injection procedure or PLLA injection (lanluma, sculptura) can be realized.

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

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Answer: Addressing Indentations from Liposuction on the Stomach: Exploring Fat Transfer Options

Answer: Addressing Indentations from Liposuction on the Stomach: Exploring Fat Transfer Options

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

Answers (7)

Answer: Addressing Indentations from Liposuction on the Stomach: Exploring Fat Transfer Options

Answer: Addressing Indentations from Liposuction on the Stomach: Exploring Fat Transfer Options

Answer: Important Recommendations

Answer: Important Recommendations

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Everything you need to know about Vaser Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.