I have a protruding bulge in my stomach a year after abdominoplasty surgery. Is this malpractice?

Question

I had a abdominoplasty and after a year my stomach has a bulge that is protruding can i sue the surgeon for malpractice?

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

Whether this is malpractice cannot be determined from an online description, and that part is a legal question. Medically, a protruding bulge one year after abdominoplasty can have several causes, including recurrent muscle separation, an abdominal wall hernia, residual or recurrent fat, scar tissue, a seroma, or a contour irregularity. The first step is an in-person exam by your surgeon or another qualified plastic surgeon. If the bulge changes with standing, coughing, or straining, imaging such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be needed to check the abdominal wall.

Ask for a clear explanation of what was repaired during your original surgery, what is being seen now, and what treatment options exist. Seek urgent care if the bulge becomes very painful, hard and non-reducible, rapidly enlarges, or is associated with vomiting, fever, redness, or bowel symptoms. If after a medical evaluation you still believe negligence may have occurred, you can discuss the legal question with a qualified malpractice attorney in your state, but the medical workup should come first.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! Keep an open communication with your plastic surgeon regarding your concerns. Revisions can always be done after surgery to tweak things that you're unhappy with. We would love to see you in person or virtually to evaluate and discuss your revision options as well. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon so we can help you reach your goals!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the bulge you are experiencing a year after your abdominoplasty. While it is understandably frustrating to face concerns after surgery, I encourage you to address this issue directly with your plastic surgeon. A protruding bulge could have several causes, including muscle laxity, a residual hernia, incomplete muscle repair, or other factors such as scar tissue or fat redistribution.

In many cases, there are solutions to address such concerns. Revision surgery, for example, could refine your results or correct any underlying issues contributing to the bulge. Consulting your surgeon allows them the opportunity to evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate next steps.

It's also important to note that the presence of a complication or suboptimal result does not necessarily indicate malpractice. Malpractice typically involves negligence or a failure to meet the standard of care. However, your surgeon is the best person to provide insights and solutions for your current situation.

If you're not satisfied with your surgeon's response, consider seeking a second opinion from another board-certified plastic surgeon to explore your options. You deserve to feel confident and happy with your results, and there are likely ways to address your concerns effectively.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

There can be several reasons that contribute to bulging after a tummy tuck, some of which may not be related to the surgery. Please reach out to your surgeon for an assessment to first determine the cause of the protrusion.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Before you try to sue, the cause of this bulge needs to be addressed. If it is from internal issues, then it is not related to your tuck. I would meet with a plastic surgeon, be examined, and discuss your concerns.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation to determine what may be causing the bulge that concerns you.  As far as taking legal action against your surgeon, that is more a question for a lawyer.

I have a protruding bulge in my stomach a year after abdominoplasty surgery. Is this malpractice?

Answers (6)

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