Large mass behind bellybutton after tummy tuck?

Question

I had a tummy tuck performed in June 2023 (almost 9 months post op) and I have noticed I have a rather large mass (almost the size of the palm of my hand) behind my belly button. It is firm, not painful, and I can move it all around my stomach. It is not protruding from the skin (so pics won't help) but very noticeable if you press on the stomach slightly. What could this possibly be?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns about a large mass behind your belly button following a tummy tuck. It's important to identify the cause of this mass for appropriate treatment.
The mass could be due to several conditions:
Seroma: This is an accumulation of serous fluid, a natural bodily fluid that aids in healing at surgical sites. Sometimes, the body produces an excess of this fluid, leading to the formation of a seroma. Over time, a capsule can form around this fluid collection.
Hematoma: Similar to a seroma, a hematoma is a collection of blood that can occur post-surgery. It can also become encapsulated, resulting in a fluid pocket. The body eventually absorbs this fluid as the hematoma organizes into a blood clot.
Hernia: Another possibility is a hernia, which involves a defect or hole in the abdominal wall. This can allow parts of the small intestine or fat to protrude through, forming a hernia.
To accurately diagnose the issue, a medical evaluation is essential. This typically involves radiographic examinations, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. These tests will help your plastic surgeon determine the exact cause of the mass and plan the appropriate course of action.
Depending on the diagnosis:
For a seroma or hematoma, treatment options might include needle drainage, the insertion of a drain, or surgery.
If it's a hernia, surgical repair would be necessary.
It's important to have this condition evaluated as soon as possible. Your healthcare provider or plastic surgeon can provide the best guidance based on the results of the diagnostic tests.
I hope this information helps in understanding the potential causes of the mass behind your belly button after a tummy tuck and the importance of seeking medical evaluation for proper treatment.
Good luck, and take care as you seek further medical advice.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

You should definitely see your surgeon for an assessment. It is difficult to give you an opinion without a physical examination and details about your surgery.

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

He should see your plastic surgeon who may be able to tell you what this fullness is by their exam.  It is hard to fully understand your examination.  Seromas, or collections of fluid, are 1 of the most common complications of abdominoplasty.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. The freely mobile firm mass after a tummy tuck can be a lot of different things, an organised hematoma, a lipoma or even a seroma. An ultrasound should be able to diagnose  it . Please discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon who will be able to help. All the best!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation.  She/He is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.  An ultrasound or similar test may be ordered to help diagnose the issue.

Large mass behind bellybutton after tummy tuck?

Answers (6)

Answer: Large mass behind the bellybutton after tummy tuck

Answer: Large mass behind the bellybutton after tummy tuck

Answer: Abdominal mass

Answer: Abdominal mass

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Large mass behind bellybutton after tummy tuck?

Answers (6)

Answer: Large mass behind the bellybutton after tummy tuck

Answer: Large mass behind the bellybutton after tummy tuck

Answer: Abdominal mass

Answer: Abdominal mass

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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