Is it possible for only a small section of your muscle repair to fail? (Photo)

Question

Is it possible for only a small section of your muscle repair to fail? I had a full tummy tuck in 12/2018 and lipo 360 10/20 and there is a small bulge on my right upper quadrant. I didn’t really notice it until after the lipo. It’s noticeable when I flex my abdominal muscles. It’s firm to touch when flexed. No pain. When I do the “lay down” test, it almost feels like there cold possibly be a separation there that would correlate with the bulge. Is this even possible or am I just being paranoid?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photograph.  I would not expect this to be related to your muscle repair but an in-person examination is required.  More likely a fluid collection or issues with the liposuction is the cause.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for the question. 
Based on your photos, it does appear that you have a small bulge in your upper abdomen. That may be related to internal stitches separating or hernia bulge. 
I would recommend an in person evaluation by your Plastic Surgeon to evaluate your abdomen further and assess the status of your muscles, as well as for presence of any hernias.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question. It is very hard to determine the etiology for bulge. Given its location and timing it is unlikely that it is related to the muscle repair. I would recommend that you return to your surgeon for an in-person examination. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Fellowship-trained plastic surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Modest866936,
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

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

The muscle repair with tummy tucks is between the muscles in the midline, and your photo shows a bulge lateral to that. Hard to tell what it is without an in-person exam, but at least you know what it isn't.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Though it is possible, it is not common for muscle repair to fail especially years after the procedure.  I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an examination to determine what may be causing this bulge.

Is it possible for only a small section of your muscle repair to fail? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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