Is this an expected result? (Photo)

Question

After losing 100 pounds and a twin pregnancy, I had 2.5 pounds of fat/skin from my belly removed. I’m still left with a lot of flubber though as seen in this pic. These jeans are not at all too tight either. I’m horrified to think this is what I’m left with after spending so much money and going through so much pain.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question concerning whether your current results are expected following a tummy tuck or a 360 circumference body lift. Assessing final outcomes in such procedures can be complex.
It's important to note that while initial results are often visible immediately post-surgery, the true outcome becomes more evident after the initial swelling subsides. This process typically takes around six weeks. During this time, the body is still healing and adjusting, which means your current appearance may not be the final result.
To enhance and define your results, a consistent routine involving a balanced diet and a combination of cardiovascular and resistance exercises is highly beneficial. Such a regimen can significantly impact the definition and contouring of the treated areas.
If, after 6 to 12 months, you find that the results still don't align with your expectations, I would advise scheduling a follow-up consultation with your plastic surgeon. At this point, additional procedures such as targeted liposuction may be considered to refine and achieve your desired results.
I hope this provides clarity on what to expect post-surgery and the steps you can take to optimize your results following a tummy tuck or a 360 body lift.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. It is difficult to see what you would be able to achieve based on this photo but you should have a flat stomach after a proper procedure chosen for you after an in person evaluation.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about recovery from a tummy tuck.

For specific questions like this and about your recovery in general, it is best to speak directly with your doctor or doctor’s representative – such as his or her nurse, or the physician on call for the practice.

You will likely get many differing opinions from members of the RealSelf Community, but they have not personally seen or examined you. Nobody should know you or your unique set of circumstances better than your doctor.

If you feel you are not being listened to or you are doubting your doctor’s recommendations, then it is certainly within your rights to seek a second opinion and get the advice from another board certified physician. This should be done through an in-person consultation with a thorough evaluation, including a review of your history, review of all prior treatment and with a physical examination.

Best Wishes.

Samuel Golpanian, MD · Answer

The first thing I ask patients is if they have had any major weight fluctuations or pregnancies AFTER their tummy tuck. If the answer is yes, then oftentimes this can be a reason why patients have residual skin and fat. If the answer is no, different techniques and amounts of skin resection are used by different surgeons to minimize complications due to things like too much tension on the wound etc. I cannot speak to other surgeons' techniques, however some err on the conservative side of skin excision to prevent complications like scar widening and/or wound separation.

Andre P. Marshall, MD · Answer

Hi Fearless706113, 
Congratulations on your weight loss! After surgery patients continue to heal well beyond a year. Patient with large volume weight loss tend to have more excess skin than those who haven't lost a significant amount of weight. This often necessitates additional procedures. Without before and after pictures it is hard to truly assess your result. If you have postoperative concerns it is always best to address these with your board certified plastic surgeon to make sure your are healing properly and your expectations can be properly managed. Should you seek expert consultation or a second opinion down the line, make sure you find an experienced plastic surgeon who is board certified to help you reach your goals. 
Dr. Andre P. MarshallDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Fearless706113,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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, 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 and I am sorry that your current results have not been what you anticipated. Unfortunately without a full series of before and current pictures it is difficult to comment on your results and I would recommend reposting or seeking out in-person consultations in your area.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your one view does not show your abdomen well, but you might benefit from liposuction. Liposuction is not done in the area of the tuck for safety to the skin.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss! It is difficult to assess your result without more information or an examination.  It can take 9-12 months before seeing final results from a tummy tuck.  Weight fluctuations can also impact results.  I encourage you to return to your surgeon to discuss your concerns.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To assess the outcome of a surgical procedure we need to see proper before and after pictures. If you don’t have your before and after pictures and then ask the surgeon to forward the ones they took. everyone is going to have an abdominal fold on their lower abdomen in the sitting position.
That is not how we assess plastic surgery outcomes.
Consider reposting with dropper before and after pictures. Pictures should include your front, side and back side in a neutral standing position showing your full torso from your neck to your knees wearing undergarments.
I also suggest you follow up with your surgeon and discuss your concerns with him or her.
To have a proper second opinion consultation scheduled those as in person consultations with other local board-certified plastic surgeons. For a second opinion consultations patients should come prepared bringing copies of before and after pictures and a copy of your operative report which is all part of your medical record and available to you if you would request them.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Is this an expected result? (Photo)

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