Would I be able to get a tummy tuck after multiple previous abdominal surgeries?

It is common for abdominoplasty patients to have had previous C-sections and/or hysterectomies. The scarring from these procedures sometimes creates an apron effect of the lower abdominal skin and fat. This not uncommonly serves as the impetus for patients to seek the procedure. The mesh hernia repair and seroma will likely result in scarring of the tissues but most experienced surgeons will feel comfortable working through this. 

Thanks for your question.  It
is possible to have a tummy tuck after previous abdominal surgeries if the
location of the incisions are lower in the pubic area.  Someone who has had a gall bladder removed by
using a long incision under the right rib cage can be at high risk for having
complications during a tummy tuck because that incision can actually compromise
the blood supply to your abdominal flap. 
However, C-sections and hysterectomy scars are down low and can actually
be removed during the tummy tuck.  I
would not recommend doing liposuction of the abdomen at the same time, however,
because it can compromise the circulation to the abdominal flap.  Liposuction of the flank area would be okay
though.  I would suggest you seek a
consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to get more information
specific to your situation.  Best of
luck!

Thank you for your question. Previous abdominal surgery does not eliminate the possibility of having a tummy tuck procedure. During your consultation with a plastic surgeon they will discuss your goals, review your medical history, and will examine you to look at the location of your scars. They will then be able to determine whether a tummy tuck is a good option. Consider several consultations, so that you can hear multiple opinions.

Sometimes, previous surgeries do not allow for a tummy tuck. One of the most common reasons is that the scar may hinder future blood flow. The surgeries you have mentioned usually allow for a tummy tuck to be performed safely.

Thanks for this question. You should be able to have a tummy tuck after these operations as long as you're healthy enough to under got the procedure. You might get another seroma after the tummy tuck surgery so make your speak with your plastic surgeon about your seroma history. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Hello mommy2207,Multiple abdominal surgeries, especially those you listed should not interfere with your having a tummy tuck with liposuction.  I often combine a tummy tuck and liposuction with a hysterectomy to treat the cosmetic deformity that can come from the skin incisions needed for these surgeries.Make sure to find a board certified plastic surgeon for an in person consultation to make sure you can safely undergo a tummy tuck.  Together you can both come up with a plan to help you reach you body contouring goals.Best of Luck!Dr. Rednam

I don't see any reason that you wouldn't be able to have a tummy tuck.  In fact, we do many of these operations specifically to repair the cosmetic results in the aftermath of some disastrous abdominal surgery.Find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area and have a consultation.  I'm sure you will be glad you did

The decision to undergo a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is based on multiple factors, including your medical history, smoking history, degree of abdominal skin laxity, fatty excess and condition of your abdominal muscles, as well as your aesthetic goals.  I have noted that a large percentage of my abdominoplasty patients have undergone previous gynecological procedures which leave a transverse scar across the pubic area.  This results in a fold of loose lax skin above the scar and tight tethered tissue beneath.  If there is enough laxity of skin throughout the abdomen, these patients are are ideal candidates for abdominoplasties, as the scars can be removed and the tethered tissue released, which will result in a substantial aesthetic improvement after surgery.  If your hernia repair was performed through a similar incision, of even if the hernia scar is contained in the lower portion of the abdomen (beneath the belly button), then this should not represent a contraindication.  The implanted mesh will likely need to be left intact, but can be avoided with careful surgical direction.  The fluid collection that was drained after the hernia repair may have left a pocket of scar tissue within the abdomen that can also be removed during the abdominoplasty.  Sounds like the procedure would not be contraindicated based on these factors, but of course you must meet with a plastic surgeon with skill in performing abdominoplasty surgery, in order to receive complete and personalized information.  Good luck!

Thank you for your question. Possibly yes but need to be evaluated  first. Please consult with a board certified PS for evaluation.

Despite your history of previous operations, you should be able to undergo tummy tuck surgery, assuming you are medically fit and otherwise a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery.   Generally speaking, the “ideal” patient for tummy tuck surgery is one who has completed pregnancies, is psycho socially/emotionally/financially stable, has an excellent social support system surrounding him/her, is capable of arranging enough recovery time, does not smoke and who has reached a long-term stable weight.



Best to seek in-person consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience helping patients achieve the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. You may find the attached link, dedicated to tummy tuck surgery concerns, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.