What can be done to fix the outcome of my tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I had multiple surgeries done in CA nearly a year ago. This was done by one of the world’s highest paid surgeons. I am truly heartbroken over EVERYTHING. What was agreed upon was not done & I look older in my face and more disfigured in my body than prior to surgery. I’ve attempted to get my concerns addressed but they fell on empty ears. I don’t even have my records. What was meant to be a new beginning has turned dark. I won’t leave my home. I want a flat, even belly with a normal button!

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Your abdomen can be fixed. Period. The obvious, but not only, issue I see is the protuberance of your abdomen. It's either fluid, excess and/or scarred fatty tissue, abdominal muscle laxity, or some combination of the three. The fix would depend on the diagnosis. Another issue is the hypertrophic vertical scar with surrounding old train track scars (from a previous intra-abdominal surgery?). The fix is excision and closure; post-surgical 24/7 elastic taping will virtually eliminate re-hypertrophism. Finally, and this may be only my preference, the central portion of your transverse incision is too high, cutting off the bottom portion of your abdomen visually, and expanding your hair bearing pubic area. The entire lower half of your abdominal skin flap should be advanced downward to rectify those two, less than desirable visible issues. As for your records, you'll need to tell your surgeon's office you're going to inform the California Medical Board that they are withholding your medical records. They'll take care of them for you, guaranteed.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question regarding the outcome of your tummy tuck and the concerns you have about your results. I understand how disappointing and disheartening this experience must be for you, especially after placing your trust in a highly regarded surgeon.

Based on your profile picture and description, it appears that your abdominal wall may have some residual laxity. To correct this and achieve a flatter, more even abdomen, I would recommend the placement of an abdominal wall mesh. This would reinforce and support the weakened abdominal wall, helping to create a firmer, more contoured midsection. Additionally, your vertical scar should be revised for a more aesthetically pleasing outcome. During this revision surgery, not much lower abdominal skin will be removed, but the main focus will be on repairing the abdominal wall and refining the overall appearance of your tummy tuck.

Your belly button can also be completely reconstructed through an umbilicoplasty. This involves creating a new, natural-looking belly button by making an incision around the pre-existing navel and reshaping the tissue. If the previous surgical technique resulted in an unnatural belly button shape, this procedure can help restore a more aesthetically pleasing and proportional look.

If your results are causing you significant distress, I encourage you to seek a consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in tummy tuck revisions. Even if it means traveling out of state, finding the right surgeon who understands your goals and concerns will be essential in achieving the outcome you originally envisioned.

I hope this information helps you on your journey to feeling confident and happy in your body again. Best of luck.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Christina907,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the photos it appears you will need a revision to your tummy tuck for improvement.  Begin by scheduling a few consultations with board certified plastic surgeons near you to listen to opinions. The correction will be determined based on the nature of the abdominal contour.  If it is muscle wall laxity a revision can correct it and get you much flatter.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You need an examination to see what might be done. If it is all internal swelling, perhaps the muscle can be tightened. You might also get improvement with nonsurgical EMSculpt. Please go in for an evaluation.

What can be done to fix the outcome of my tummy tuck? (Photo)

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Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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What can be done to fix the outcome of my tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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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.