9 months post extended tummy tuck - Is this skin laxity or residual fat? (photos)

Things will still bunch up when you bend or sit down. An examination is needed to see if you have any residual fat. If you do, liposuction can be done. If it is internal, you will need to change your diet.

Hi straightforward1695,

Thank you for your question regarding if the issue is skin laxity or residual fat nine months after an extended tummy tuck. I appreciate the detailed history and the pictures you've provided. Based on your extended tummy tuck images, your results appear to be outstanding. In your standing position picture, your abdomen is remarkably flat. All your tummy tuck scars have healed well. Even in your profile view, you maintain a nice, flat stomach. It's evident that there's some skin laxity when you sit; however, having a bit of skin laxity post-tummy tuck is entirely expected. It's essential to retain SOME surplus skin to allow comfortable sitting. If all the skin were removed while seated, standing straight would be a challenge. The skin laxity evident in your photos likely stems from the 18-pound weight loss post-surgery. I'm inclined to believe it isn't fat, especially considering the weight you've shed. It wouldn't align with logic to deem it residual fat. I surmise the extra skin is more pronounced because, post-tummy tuck, your abdomen was taut, and subsequently, you shed additional weight. The sole method to address this lax skin is through a revision tummy tuck. Yet, it's crucial to note that this residual skin laxity isn't due to the tummy tuck but rather a consequence of the 18-pound weight loss following the procedure. This underscores the importance of undergoing plastic surgery after reaching one's weight loss goals. Eighteen pounds is indeed substantial. I hope this clarifies your concerns about potential skin laxity or residual fat nine months after your extended tummy tuck. I wish you the best in your continued journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

All patients will have some redundancy when sitting even after a tummy tuck. From the photos it appears you may have some excess fat as well as skin. I encourage you to visit with your surgeon to discuss your concerns and how to improve your results. If you are intending to lose further weight you should complete that goal before any touch ups.