FDL Revision Needed? (Photo)

Question

Had FDL - things were going VERY well until about 5-6 WPO - I developed a considerable seroma. Initial FDL was drainless - seroma was draining well on its own; it was decided to leave it and NOT place a drain. Now, I’m VERY discouraged/frustrated. Swelling and issues with seroma has left me with what I feel is an abd deformity. You can see how tight and nice things were at 3-DPO and 3-WPO but now at 9-WPO it’s AWFUL! I already had major deformity from past laparotomy. Will this require revision?

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Sorry to read about the issues you have been having after your surgery.  Unfortunately it does look like you may need a revision procedure to remove more of the redundant skin.  At this point, I would wait a minimum of 4-6 months, allow all the swelling to dissipate and then go back in to remove the extra skin.  This would not be as extensive as your original procedure, but it still is surgery and would require downtime.

Hope that helps.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The seroma and skin laxity needs to be addressed by your surgeon.  The current result could definitely be improved.  At nine weeks post op you can still expect changes in the future but I'm not sure it will improve to the degree where no further revision is recommended.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Tummy tuck seroma is simple to resolve. The surgeon needs to place a Penrose drain ( no other type will work) into the seroma space through your existing incision and let the fluid flow freely to the outside where you can place some gauze pads. Remove the drain in a week. Problem solved. I’ve done this enough times and it never fails.  I do think you need your incision a bit lower but that revision can wait six months

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear LovingMyChronicLife,
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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, this will need to be revised and will require removing the entire cavity of the seroma and leaving drains for at least 2 weeks. Please discuss this with your surgeon.

FDL Revision Needed? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Revision surgery

Answer: Revision surgery

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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FDL Revision Needed? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Revision surgery

Answer: Revision surgery

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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