5’3, 130lb, no weight gain - lump after tummy tuck 1 year ago? (Photo)

Question

I’m 5’3, 130lb . I haven’t gained any weight since my surgery. I had a tummy tuck with MR last February and my DR said my swelling would go down . The top of my stomach looks amazing but right above my incision I have a huge bulge . And when I wear leggings it sticks out . What can be done or what went wrong ? Will it go away.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

The little pouch you see below the belly button is because the abdominal skin is not liposuctioned during TT so the thickness you had before surgery still there. 
Nothing wrong with it, it happens to all patients because doing liposuction to the abdominal skin at the same time of the tummy tuck increases the risk of a serious complication called skin necrosis. 
I never have done lipo to abdomen during Tummy Tucks and liposuction must be done 5/6 months after to be in the safe side. 
Nothing is wrong with your surgery, it just need the second stage of the procedure: liposuction.be encouraged 
Dr. Cárdenas

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

After a year, it's not going to go away. It is most likely residual fat tissue. If that is the case, it can be helped with abdominal liposuction.

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  I would recommend discussing with your surgeon your concerns and requesting a CT scan to assess the area.  This will help your surgeon to determine if it is swelling or something more.  Best of luck to you!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At one year post op it is unlikely you will notice any further changes to your results.  If the lump is fatty tissue you can consider liposuction of this small area which could likely be done in an office surgical suite.  If there is excess skin as well that can be revised to smooth out the area.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Lejoliedame,
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

5’3, 130lb, no weight gain - lump after tummy tuck 1 year ago? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: 1 year post op

Answer: 1 year post op

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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5’3, 130lb, no weight gain - lump after tummy tuck 1 year ago? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: 1 year post op

Answer: 1 year post op

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.