Can I have a 5 year old tummy tuck reversed as I am getting sick as a result. (photos)

Question

Abdominoplasty 5 yrs ago. Felt like tightest pair of spanx and hard to deep breathe- uncomfortable!! Developed upper abd bulge looked strange. Tightness and bulge ever present. lower abdomen is tight I am5’7” 160lbs. I’ve developed chronic gerd. On endoscopy - Barrets esophagus with hiatal hernia due to increased intraabd pressure. now on Prilosec 20-40 mg (side effects)still with cascade of symptoms. I’m at inc risk for esoph ca as a result of all this. none was discussed prior to surgery.

John E. Nees, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!I am sorry to hear of your apparent complication. Your situation is unusual to say the least...Tight closures after abdominoplasty usually "pull apart" in the early postoperative period. I am curious to know how it was determined that the intraabdominal pressure was elevated and was responsible, as a Barrett's esophagus due to hiatus hernia can occur in the absence of a history of abdominoplasty.It is important to note if you ever had any symptoms prior to the procedure...In any event, if there is no alternative, the musculature most likely can be loosened surgically.Seek advice from a board certified plastic surgeon.Best wishes...

Robert Frank, MD · Answer

Your problem is hardly common so this reply isn't the result of similar problems in my own practice. The plication (meaning tightening) of your abdominal muscles could, in theory, be reversed by removing those sutures. After 5 years, that may not be feasible. GERD is the result of multiple factors, not just abdominal wall plication, so weight loss, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, not eating at bedtime, and, obviously, medical therapy may be less invasive options to help. Good luck.

Jorge Jiménez Toribio, MD · Answer

Hi dear.. Thank you for your question and the provided pictures.So sorry for what you've been through thus far. Every case is different and the complications may not necessarily be due to the surgery, I'd suggest consulting your PS and discussing your situation with him/her but if you don't feel comfortable doing it, I'd suggest seeking for other board certified plastic surgeons who can help you.Hope this helps.Dr. Jiménez ToribioPlastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

Can I have a 5 year old tummy tuck reversed as I am getting sick as a result. (photos)

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Can I have a 5 year old tummy tuck reversed as I am getting sick as a result. (photos)

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