What could have caused a pooch after tummy tuck and what can I do to correct this? (photos)

Question

I had my surgery 11/2021. Had some complications with my incision. It got infected. They had to dig the staples out. When they took the anchor it left a big hole in the center. Was sorta a nightmare. My doctor didnt recommend massages. Said they were not needed. Now I have this weird pooch that sticks out. Is there a reason why and a way to fix it?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Roxy5180,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Roxy5180, thank you for your question.  It's not uncommon for patients to experience complications or unexpected results after a tummy tuck procedure. Factors such as surgical technique and post-operative care can affect the final outcome. If you're experiencing a pooch after your tummy tuck surgery, it's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon  and to evaluate if there is something else at a systemic level to make you still swollen. That way  the cause of the pooch can be determined and the best course of action for correcting it, which may involve additional surgery.  Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.  American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to know what lead to your abdominal contour.  It could be related to the post op infection.  For improvement you can consider a scar revision and either a little liposuction or removal of more tissue.  An examination is recommended to determine the best way to proceed.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for posting. It is hard to say why but I’m sure the infection had something to do with it. The good news is that this is an easy fix! Scar revision with liposuction should take care of your concerns. I believe your incision should be not only straightened but lowered as well! Make sure to address both these issues and you will have great results.

Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Nancy de Kleer, MD, FRCSC (Plast) · Answer

It's disappointing to have a pooch after a tummy tuck and we do see this from time to time.  This is likely related to poor healing, which may be related to the infection that occurred.  The way to fix it is with liposuction and normally it comes out very nicely once this is done.

What could have caused a pooch after tummy tuck and what can I do to correct this? (photos)

Answers (5)