Any idea why I'm not flat 6 months after tummy tuck and what should I do? (Photos)

Question

I am 134, 5'4, I had a Tummy Tuck and MR and lipo to flank 6 months back. Still I don't have a flat tummy. Any idea why? And what should I do? My ps keep saying it is swelling. Also I have a weird looking belly button.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Without feeling your tissues it is difficult to know what may be taking place- residual muscle laxity, internal visceral fat, swelling from surgery, etc.  I would allow a full year to pass, reassess your results, and then determine if a revision is needed.  You may wish to find local surgeons with whom you can seek second opinions.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you very much for your question, in the front photo your surgery looks very good, however in the side photo I observed changes that are more suggestive to body posture and not to surgery, I suggest a physical examination where your doctor can palpate if the dystasis of your rectus abdominis muscles is completely corrected. It helps a lot to start exercising to tone the abdominal wall, but above all to correct body posture. Greetings from Colombia

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you want a flatter abdomen then I recommend abdominoplasty with mesh reinforcement, if you are not planning future pregnancies.  The mesh creates a more hourglass figure by compressing the abdominal wall resulting in early satiety and helps maintain a reduced weight.  Also, the umbilicus can be revised.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Nan1356,
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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is possible that you have some residual swelling that is keeping you from seeing your final result.  I encourage you to continue to follow the advice of your plastic surgeon for optimal healing.  If your belly button does not heal the way you wish, you can consider a revision a year after surgery.

Any idea why I'm not flat 6 months after tummy tuck and what should I do? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Post tummy tuck

Answer: Post tummy tuck

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.

Any idea why I'm not flat 6 months after tummy tuck and what should I do? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Post tummy tuck

Answer: Post tummy tuck

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.