Previous umbilical hernia repair and muscle tightening, why are the muscles still separated? Could it happen after TT? (Photo)

Question

I have had an umbilical hernia repair also repair of the recti to prevent recurrence a few years ago through a small vertical incision next to my belly button. This was not done as a cosmetic procedure. What will be different in the tummy tuck I am now considering. Why has it come undone and could this happen again after the tummy tuck? I don't want to keep having to get these muscle sewn back together??

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You are an excellent candidate for
Abdominoplasty with Mesh Reinforcement.This technique will eliminate your umbilical hernia and provide the
benefits of the abdominoplasty.The mesh
increases the mechanical strength of the abdominal wall resulting in early
satiety, weight loss and maintains the reduced weight.The use of wide mesh has been shown to be
effective in decreasing the forces that cause the recurrence of hernias.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for the picture. Abdominoplasty does not repair a hernia. A hernia possibly can be repaired during an abdominoplasty. You need to seek general surgery consultation as to why your hernia continues to recur.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

It is very difficult to give you good advice based on the limited photograph and based on the limited information of what was previously done. Generally speaking, with tummy tuck surgery, the entire length of the abdominal wall musculature/fashion is exposed allowing for accurate plication of the abdominal wall fashion from the xiphoid down to the pubic bone; this complete plication was likely not performed during the limited exposure procedure you have  had done previously.  The risk of separation of abdominal wall fascia plication after tummy tuck surgery should be very small.You will do well achieving your long-term stable weight  (if you are not there already) prior to proceeding with tummy tuck surgery. You may find the attached link, dedicated to tummy tuck concerns, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Gaurav Bharti, MD, FACS · Answer

It is hard to say what is currently going on without an examination and not knowing exactly what procedure was performed initially.  In my experience, my patients do not have recurrence of the diastasis after a full abdominoplasty.  Good Luck, Gaurav Bharti

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Yes to all your questions but over the internet with a poorly posted photo very hard to advise. Best to seek ONLY IN PERSON opinions....

Previous umbilical hernia repair and muscle tightening, why are the muscles still separated? Could it happen after TT? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy Issues

Answer: Tummy Issues

Answer: Previous umbilical hernia repair and muscle tightening, why are the muscles still separated? Could it happen after TT?

Answer: Previous umbilical hernia repair and muscle tightening, why are the muscles still separated? Could it happen after TT?

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Previous umbilical hernia repair and muscle tightening, why are the muscles still separated? Could it happen after TT? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy Issues

Answer: Tummy Issues

Answer: Previous umbilical hernia repair and muscle tightening, why are the muscles still separated? Could it happen after TT?

Answer: Previous umbilical hernia repair and muscle tightening, why are the muscles still separated? Could it happen after TT?

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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.