Can I have my tummy tuck undone? It's been 4 years since my surgery and I still have issues breathing and am pulled very tight.

Question

What does a tummy tuck "undoing" entail, and will it be as invasive as the actual tummy tuck? Can the sutures be taken out through your belly button, instead of having to be cut end to end? its been 4 years but I still feel short of breath & miserable in my own skin. I've been to a couple other surgeons (I don't want to see my original surgeon anymore because of the damage already done), and they tell me it's in my head. Anyone know a doctor who has done the tummy tuck "undoing" procedure?

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

Your muscle plication sutures may be too tight, or have you gained weight? I have not heard of any one person who specialises in this. Do you have lung problems, asthma, COPD etc? This you make it an issue for you.Good LuckStephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

Norman G. Morrison, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Undoing a tummy tuck means removing the sutures
from the plication done on the abdominal muscles. This can be done through the belly button or
what is called laparoscopic surgery. However, if in your previous surgery you had a longer incision, it is
possible that there are complications from tissue adherence and previous incisions
and you may not be a candidate for laparascopy. Any trained and experienced plastic surgeon can undo a tummy tuck, as
long as you discuss with them your concerns.

Can I have my tummy tuck undone? It's been 4 years since my surgery and I still have issues breathing and am pulled very tight.

Answers (2)