Skin fold still here 6 months after tummy tuck - will this be permanent? (Photo)

Question

Hello. I had a tummy tuck in October 2023 so just over 6 months ago. I had sever skin folds across my stomach and although most have flattened there is one that is still here despite how much compression I used during the first 6 months as instructed. I no longer wear my comoresssion garment and now I wonder whether this fold will be permanent and I’m extremely self conscious about it.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Classy Sassy Assy. Thank you for your question regarding the persistence of a skin fold after your tummy tuck.

Thank you for your history and your pictures. Since the skin fold has been present for six months following your tummy tuck, it is possible that this could be permanent. However, if this skin fold bothers you, a surgical revision might be necessary. Such a revision would typically involve going through a portion of your existing tummy tuck scar. Most plastic surgeons would suggest that you don't need the entire tummy tuck revised, but rather, the incision on the side of the crease may need to be extended toward the hip to smooth out the area effectively.

Overall, your tummy tuck results look excellent, but this relatively minor surgery could be performed to eliminate the pleat or skin wrinkle. This revision could potentially be done under local anesthesia, which most plastic surgeons would agree is a suitable approach since the skin fold persists six months post-operation.

Good luck, and I hope I've answered your question regarding the persistence of a skin fold after a tummy tuck.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ClassySassyAssy,
I understand your concern. 6 months after surgery your results are final. 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

Sumer Daiza, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to determine without seeing a pre op photo. Sometimes, the creases could have been present more posteriorly prior to surgery but are moved forward with the tummy tuck. It is not always possible to free up all the creases at the time of surgery and may require a revision to improve the cosmetic appearance.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It looks like this fold will most likely be permanent since it’s already been 6 months since your surgery. Please see your surgeon to discuss how this can be smoothed out. It may require surgical correction.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photographs, this skin fold was likely the result of your excess skin being pulled in centrally. This could be fixed with a revision procedure. Your surgeon should be able to help with this. If your surgeon is not able to help, then I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

You definitely need revision. 
No this will eliminate that. It will be needed surgical release of the adherence towards the abdominal wall. 
Be encouraged!
Dr. Cardenas

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The fold that concerns you will be permanent without a revision.  Wearing your garment will not influence the appearance.  Your surgeon will need to release the fold which will improve the overall contour.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The fold might be permanent, but it can be improved. go back to your surgeon and discuss your concerns and options.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Great posted series of photos. In my 43 years of Plastic surgery practice this is the second case I’ve seen of this kind of complication following you tummy tuck. The only option to correct this is revision of the tummy tuck release of the indentation under the tissue with extension of tummy tuck incision. Fee $8000. Best virtual consult with.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To make an accurate assessment regarding the outcome of any plastic surgery procedure, we need to see a complete set of proper before and after pictures.
If you don’t have before, and after pictures, then ask your surgeon to forward the pictures they took.
Based on the limited information provided, I’m guessing you had substantial amounts of skin laxity before the procedure probably due to previous pregnancies and significant weight loss.
 When individuals have skin laxity that goes beyond the front of the abdomen and they need an extended procedure.
Your provided opted to limit the length probably hoping you would appreciate that, but so doing limited how much skin laxity can be treated at the side, severe abdomen your hips and backside.
I’m guessing what you really needed was an extended or wraparound tummy tuck because that would’ve addressed continued skin laxity other than just the front of your abdomen.
Compression garments are not going to change the outcome of a surgical procedure.
Your surgical Out, is a direct reflection of your candidacy for the procedure, and how the procedure was performed.
 Consider reposting with proper before and after pictures.
I also recommend you follow up with your provider and discuss your concerns with him or her.
To get a proper second opinion consultation, and a better understanding of revision surgery options either talk to your provider or schedule in person second opinion consultations with other plastic surgeons in your community.
For second opinion consultations come prepared bringing with you a complete set of proper before and after pictures and a copy of your operative report.
 These are all part of your medical records and should be available from your provider.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Skin fold still here 6 months after tummy tuck - will this be permanent? (Photo)

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