Tummy tuck 11 months ago & look worse, do you have advice? (Photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck 11 mths ago. It has been a nightmare. I was so disappointed in my results. I ended up in the hospital 3 weeks later with sepsis My belly looked like I was 8 mth pregnant. I went to my hometown emergency room. They called my plastic surgeon that was 2 hours away and the ER Dr. Told him. As soon as we get an ambulance he will be sending me back to him. I ended up at Emory University 3 14 in the morning. My surgeon drained my stomach 850 ccs . I kept my drains in for over 3 mt

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the experiences you've had since your tummy tuck.  Based on the photos provided you will need to determine if you have fluid collection.  An ultrasound should be able to answer this question.  Once concerns are ruled out you can consider a revision.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear belletyson37,
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

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @belletyson37, thank you for your question. and showing you pictures. Several factors should be considered, including the surgical technique applied, evaluating whether anything else is going on at a systemic level, obtaining additional testing to establish what happened and deciding on a surgical plan based on your needs and expectations. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I am so sorry about your difficulties. You may have some residual seroma capsule that needs to be removed. Ask your surgeon to do an abdominal ultrasound to check. Excess tissue of the lower abdomen can be trimmed.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

It is difficult to say what is going on.  Initially, it looks like a fluid collection (seroma), but a physical exam or sonogram would rule this in or out.  The possibility of scar tissue and an inflammatory response is of concern, but rare this far post op.
I would request a sonogram and or CT scan to see what's going on inside.  What was your Plastic Surgeon's thoughts at your latest postoperative visit?
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

Tummy tuck 11 months ago & look worse, do you have advice? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdominoplasty

Answer: Abdominoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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Tummy tuck 11 months ago & look worse, do you have advice? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdominoplasty

Answer: Abdominoplasty

Browse related questions

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.