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

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

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

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.