Am I at a higher risk for wound healing or necrosis if I get a tummy tuck since I had prior abdominal surgeries? (Photo)

Question

I was in a bad accident when I was a child. Am I at a higher risk for wound healing or necrosis if I get a tummy tuck since I had prior abdominal surgeries? I have a midline scar in the middle of my abdomen for a bladder repair and I also have three additional incisions that were made for drains that were put in at that time as well. I also had 2 c-sections when I had my children. Thank you so much for your time.

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

Hi. It should be ok for you to have a tummy tuck with your previous scars.  Without an in-person exam, it is hard to say if all of your old scars will be removed completely or if some will remain.  Also, with proper caution, the risk of necrosis or wound healing problems is usually low, but a more thorough exam and consultation are necessary to give you a specific answer for your situation.  Meet with an experienced PS to go over all of these details with you so you can decide if it’s right for you.  Best of luck!

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

While there is some increased risk of healing problems after previous abdominal surgery, with a midline scar it is usually manageable. Drain scars have low risk. If you are a nonsmoker and not overweight (BMI more than 30) it should be OK to have a tummy tuck.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

It appears from your photograph, that all the scars except for above the umbilicus will be resected at the time of the tummy tuck. This will not create any significant increase in complication rate for wound healing or necrosis.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

You are not at higher risk for skin/tissue necrosis because of prior abdominal surgery like yours. In fact, most or all of the violated skin/tissue will be excise in a tummy tuck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear gjmolina1,
based on your photos, you look like a good candidate for a TT. Full tummy tuck should tighten your abdominal muscles and remove the excess skin. Flanks liposuction would give you a better shape. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon because only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photograph.  Based on the location of your scars they would not materially impact your risk factor for a tummy tuck procedure.  Hope this helps.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your previous surgeries and scarring should not be an issue for skin circulation with your tummy tuck, and you should be able to proceed with surgery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Although an in person exam is always best, it appears you would be a candidate for a tummy tuck despite your stated medical history.  I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation.  During this important meeting you will learn more about the tummy tuck, review your medical history, and a physical exam will be performed.  Your surgeon will make you aware of any concerns based on the outcome of this review.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Dear GJ Molina,
I feel I answered your question recently (unless you have a twin!).
Your vertical lower abdominal incision will be removed during a standard abdominoplasty procedure so it will not interfere.  Scars located above the umbilicus may restrict some blood supply and must be evaluated prior to performing the abdominoplasty.
You appear to be a very good candidate for the procedure.
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

Based on your limited photo, you appear to be anatomically a candidate for a full tummy tuck and liposuction of selective areas. It is difficult to tell whether you are a good candidate without a physical examination and complete medical history. It would depend on your anatomical findings, motivation, andrealistic expectations. An abdominoplasty should be delayed until you are within 10 pounds of your ideal weight and have a BMI less than 30. Lesser procedures will not produce a good cosmetic result in a patient with your anatomy.

If a member of my family underwent a tummy tuck, it would be performed by an experienced plastic surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) . If you are serious about undergoing these procedures, you should have a thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon having those credentials, who will fully explain what is entailed in the procedures, including both the positives and potential problems. You should be complimented on the fact that you are seeking valid information before jumping into any procedure.