Will a CT show complications or muscle failure 15 months after tummy tuck? (Photo)

If you have new onset isolated bulge, it is possible that it could be related to a diastasis or a hernia. If you have more generalized bloating type symptoms, it is more likely related to something else. From your pictures, there is NO obvious hernia nor diastasis. However, this is something that can be detected on exam or imaging. A CT scan can show how far apart the edges of your tummy muscles are. It could also detect if you have a hernia.

Dear Sociable597372,
I understand your concern. CT scan will show muscle separation. 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

Hello; Enough to allow for a Full Abdominal Tuck in your upper abdomen; you don't have loose skin. Therefore, it is not possible for you; to have a Full Tummy Tuck. Whereas; even if, you can have a full Tummy Tuck; sub mamary crease would not change.In your current situation; at best, a Mini Tummy Tuck procedure seems for doable. Meanwhile, for your scars; which are located under the breast; revision surgery may be performed.

Rather than having a CT scan and trying to have someone other than your surgeon give you information on your results I encourage you to visit with a few board certified plastic surgeons in your area for second opinions. Their experience and knowledge may give you the answers that you need.

This is a good question And fortunately a rare problem. I have encountered this with just a small percentage of my tummy tuck patients.

One recently was a similar figure and size. Her initial postop results were excellent, and then gradually she progressed to an expanded abdomen. The muscle felt intact and upon operation was in fact, still intact. Her tissues had simply stretched. My initial repair remained solid. I did a secondary plication and even used mesh to support the repair again. Results were excellent but over many months she gradually expanded again.

Internal fat can play a role with weight gain, the gradually expand the Abdomen, but in your case that does not seem to be the Problem. Poor nutrition and poor muscle tone and occasional genetic issues can cause this as well.

While it is unfortunate, sometimes biological systems do not behave as expected.

Good luck

Based on your post of photos, it does not appear as you have a failed muscle repair. It appears as your muscles are very lacks along their width. Most likely a MRI CAT scan, or even better ultrasound might show if there’s any separation at the medial borders of the rectus muscles. My guess there is none. But one of those three test, most likely will verify. if it is not separated muscle and just general laxity of your abdominal wall muscles, only treatment could be insertion of a large mesh in a complete re-operation. As for urinary continents that can occur as a rare complication by the pubic area being pulled superiorly, just exposing the urethra , causing it to be open sometime injections of HA filler or fat around the urethra could help with the correction of the incontinence or even stem cell fat graphs but recommend seeing a urologist. Expect fees to range from $12,000-$25,000. Best to virtual consult with.

Your situation is complex and I don’t think you’re going to get quality assessment by posting on this website.
To get a proper second opinion, consultation schedule those as in person consultations with other plastic surgeons in your community.
For second opinion, consultations come prepared.
This means bringing a complete set of proper before and after pictures and a copy of your operative report.
All of these should be available from your current providers office if you request them.
I’m guessing the first three pictures are before pictures.
Based on those I’m questioning why you had a tummy tuck?
In your before pictures your abdomen looks completely flat.
I’ve never heard of somebody developing muscle separation from having a tummy tuck.
Something is not adding up so I think you need somebody to look into this and get a better understanding of what was done and why you’re outcome looks the way it does.
A tummy tuck generally treats, abdominal skin laxity, and muscle separation from previous pregnancy.
A tummy tuck does not always include muscle tightening.
It’s important to understand exactly what was done and exactly what type of tummy tuck you had.
Schedule a few in person second opinion consultations with other plastic surgeons in your area.
A CT scan is not going to show anything related to your tummy tuck.
Reading your operative report and doing an examination should be all that you need to get a quality assessment.
It helps if you’re in the hands of the right provider.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD