Muscle laxity or internal bloat? (Photo)

Question

Had tt 6 mos. ago. My before stomach was mostly flat, but with excess skin and muscle weakness. Now my lower stomach bulges. Right lower side sticks out a bit more than the left, and the left upper side has a small bulge. My surgeon says this is all internal bloat, internal fat, food intolerances, etc. But he says I don’t have external fat to even pinch. 2nd opinion Dr pushed in on my lower stomach and it went flat, she thinks it’s a muscle issue. It is also still very tight and uncomfortable.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Your surgeon lied to you. Your abdomen still has excess skin and subcutaneous fat as demonstrated in the photo of you bending over, not intra-abdominal fat, or 'bloat' as your surgeon may be referring to. You'll need another 6 months of healing before an adequate assessment of skin, fat and muscle can be made for the purposes of revision surgery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Adventurous5183,

I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At six months post op swelling that is associated with the surgery would have resolved.  Based on your photos it appears excess skin remains as well as potential subcutaneous fat.  A revision to your tummy tuck would help improve your overall results.

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

My initial impression is that you would benefit from liposuction to maximize the flatness of your tummy, I do not see any visceral fat on the side photos. I have done liposuction on may patients that have had tummy tucks prior which will maximize the results and make a noticeable difference that will meet patients expectations. Thank you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

An examination is needed to see what may be present. An ultrasound could be done to check for any excess fluid. Please discuss this with your surgeon.

Muscle laxity or internal bloat? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Muscle laxity or internal bloat?

Answer: Muscle laxity or internal bloat?

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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Muscle laxity or internal bloat? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Muscle laxity or internal bloat?

Answer: Muscle laxity or internal bloat?

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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