Did my surgeon not take enough skin? (Photo)

Hello Vivid108076. Thank you for your question regarding the concerns you have post-tummy tuck, particularly regarding the amount of skin removed and the appearance of a bulge.

From the details and pictures you provided, it's important to consider a few key aspects. After a tummy tuck, it is typical for the abdomen not to appear completely flat when sitting, as some redundancy is necessary to allow for comfortable movement and standing. If the skin were too tight, it would restrict your ability to stand straight and move freely.

Regarding the bulge you mentioned, which is visible in your six-month postoperative standing picture, it's essential to follow up with your plastic surgeon. While it appears that sufficient skin was removed during your surgery, a physical examination and possibly imaging studies like an ultrasound or CT scan could help determine the nature of the bulge. These tests can assess whether the bulge is due to subcutaneous fat in front of the muscle, which could be addressed with liposuction, or if it is visceral fat located behind the muscle. Visceral fat is more challenging to remove surgically and is typically managed with dietary changes and exercise.

You mention maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle, which is excellent. However, if the bulge persists, consider the following dietary strategies:

Ketogenic Diet: High in fats and very low in carbohydrates, helping to reduce insulin and sugar levels.
Carnivore Diet: Focuses solely on animal products and is extremely low in carbs.
Intermittent Fasting: Cycles between periods of fasting and eating, which can improve metabolism and reduce fat storage.
Calorie Deficit Diet: Consuming fewer calories than you burn can lead to weight loss.
Additionally, combining aerobic and anaerobic exercises can enhance fat loss and improve muscle tone, which might help tighten the area if the issue is related to subcutaneous fat.

If lifestyle changes do not resolve the issue, discussing temporary weight loss medications with your healthcare provider might be an option.

It’s crucial to maintain ongoing communication with your plastic surgeon, who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help determine if further interventions are necessary.

I hope I've provided clarity regarding your concerns post-tummy tuck. Please feel free to reach out with any more questions.

Good luck, and I hope you achieve the results you desire.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Dear Vivid108076,
I understand your concern. 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; your problem; but not standing position; if it occurs when you sit; most likely, abdominal muscle repair was not done at all or was done inadequately.Even while standing; if you have a problem too; it is necessary for deleting fat from your belly.