Deformity/bulge after tummy tuck - is it fat, scar tissue, pseudobursa or loose skin? Ultrasound? (Photos)

Hello @Energetic147412, thank you for your question. It is important to take into account several aspects among which is the surgical technique applied, and to evaluate if there is anything else at a systemic level. To know what is really happening, a more rigorous test is necessary. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Thank you for your query. Based on your limited photographs, a visible bulge in the lower part of your abdomen can be seen. The ultrasounds are difficult to interpret but there can be several reasons for the bulge including loose skin, some fat, scar tissue or a residual seroma. I would recommend a proper ultrasound evaluation by a board certified Radiologist. Please do discuss this with your plastic surgeon or another Board certified plastic surgeon in your area. All the best!

Dear Energetic147412,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you've been experiencing and that your surgeon won't respond. I encourage you to visit with another board certified plastic surgeon near you who can address your concerns appropriately. The treatment will vary based on the underlying issue.

You appear to have some fluid present. Please make a copy and meet with your surgeon to drain this fluid.

Can be any of those. It is important to consult your surgeon to have an appropriate diagnosis, A well performed ultrasound can be very useful to differentiate the cause. You might need a surgical approach to solve it.
David Guarin MD

I suggest getting a formal evaluation to confirm you don’t have a chronic seroma, since that would be treated very differently than all other issues that could cause lower abdominal bulging after a full tummy tuck.
I think it’s unlikely you’re going to get a radiologist to answer your response so perhaps either get a proper second opinion consultation or get your provider or someone else to order a proper ultrasound for you.
Your own history of how the seroma was managed. How much fluid was drained out, and if this gave complete relief leaving you without any fluid wave , would give a lot of information.
Your situation is a little complex to get an accurate assessment based on posting on this website. If your surgeon is not giving you the information or care that you need, then I suggest scheduling a second opinion consultation.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD