Risks of Repeat Tummy Tuck?

Having to repeat a tummy tuck is occasionally nencessary but should not be planned. In many instances this is due to unexpected pregnancy.

Laxity and separation of the tummy (rectus) muscles after pregnancy does NOT make it harder to bring the muscles together. If anything, bringing these muscles together is THE reason for performing the tummy tuck in the first place. Tightening these muscles together is crucial in restoring the abdomen to its "Pre-Baby" look and failure to do so is tantamount to throwing in the towel before the boxing match even starts.

In a re-do tummy tuck, the separation of the skin and fat from the underlying muscles is harder due to scarring causing a longer procedure. There is a higher chance of losing blood supply to the belly button resulting in potential loss of the belly button and removing any excess skin which formed between your first tummy tuck to this operation will result in a vertical scar where the belly button used to be.

I am a little confused as to why muscle plication/repair  was not possible during a 1st procedure.  Assuming no additional risk factors such as nicotine use and that you're working with a well-trained/experience  board certified plastic surgeon I am not aware of any reasons why you should be at  increased risk for complications during your 2nd procedure.  The scar should not necessarily be more visible and may even be able to be lowered during your 2nd procedure.

Best wishes.

The risks increase by a factor of 2 due to statistics and averages (UGH math)! Also scarring can be worse. But these are informed consent issues to discuss with the surgeon.

From MIAMI DR. B