Will Skin-shelf & skin flap above tummy tuck incision resolve with time? (Photo)

Question

I have a flap of skin and a skin shelf above the incision of my tummy tuck. I also have a lot of pleating. Will this resolve with time. I feel so upset like this is a botched procedure that I spent so much money on and so much time to recover from.

Tommaso Addona, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Based on the photos provided, you may warrant a revision. Although swelling will diminish over time creating a flatter contour to the abdomen, the excess skin may still remain. I recommend speaking to your plastic surgeon to discuss your options and concerns.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to advise you without more information and a full view of the abdomen.  It can take 9-12 months for you to see the final results from a tummy tuck.  During the first few months patients may be swollen, which will resolve slowly over time.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns.

Wess Cohen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Final results are difficult to predict until 4 to 6 months after surgery typically. It is difficult to tell from the picture exactly the extent of what you are seeing. Pleading does typically go away with time, but again it is hard to tell. The shelf looks like it is unlikely to get flatter without an additional operation that may require a revision of the muscle plication or possibly the addition of mesh.Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear kait1479,
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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did not show the full view of your abdomen, but I suspect you still have swelling which will slowly subside, and the pleats usually will soften and disappear.

Will Skin-shelf & skin flap above tummy tuck incision resolve with time? (Photo)

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Will Skin-shelf & skin flap above tummy tuck incision resolve with time? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

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Answer: Surgery

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Everything you need to know about Mini Tummy Tuck

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