Why is my stomach NOT flat 7 months post tummy tuck and lipo? (Photo)

At seven months post op the majority of your swelling should be resolved. In order to improve your results a revision will be needed. If abdominal wall correction was not performed , having that done will give you a tighter flatter tummy. It also appears that further skin removal will achieve improved results.

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding your results 7 months after your tummy tuck and liposuction. I appreciate you sharing your history and photos.

It’s understandably disappointing to feel that your results are not meeting your expectations. Based on your description, the issue may lie in whether or not the rectus abdominis muscles (your abdominal muscles) were properly sutured or plicated during your initial procedure. Typically, muscle plication is performed during a tummy tuck to address diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles), which can contribute to a flat abdominal appearance. If this step was not performed or was inadequately done, the abdominal wall may still appear distended, especially when standing or sitting.

If your rectus muscles were not tightened, a revision tummy tuck may be necessary to address this. During the revision, muscle plication can be performed to reinforce the abdominal wall. In cases of severe muscle weakness or large gaps, some surgeons may also use surgical mesh to reconstruct and support the abdominal wall for a more lasting and dramatic improvement.

Regarding additional liposuction, while it may remove some remaining fat, it is unlikely to address the core issue if the problem is with the muscle wall. In some cases, excessive or improperly planned liposuction after a tummy tuck can even worsen the overall appearance by creating irregularities or further weakening the abdominal contour.

Given your ongoing bloating and discomfort, I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in revision procedures. They can thoroughly evaluate whether your abdominal muscles were adequately repaired and help determine the best course of action to achieve your desired results. Seeking multiple opinions, even if it means traveling out of state, may give you a clearer understanding of your options.

I hope this provides clarity and guidance regarding your concerns. Best of luck!

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Dear vanonymous84,
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