Tummy tuck swelling, fat, or puffy scar? Almost 10 months out. Is this normal? (Photo)

Dear Toni2424,

Thank you for your question regarding whether your tummy tuck is due to swelling, fat, or a puffy scar, especially since you are 10 months out from your surgery. Without seeing your preoperative pictures, it's challenging to provide a definitive answer. However, considering your 130-pound weight loss, it's likely you had a significant amount of excess abdominal skin. Given that, I believe your current tummy tuck results are impressive. You seem to have achieved great results!

Recovery after a tummy tuck can be lengthy, sometimes taking up to two years for the body to fully heal. If you're concerned about the appearance of your tummy tuck scar, consider applying silicone cream or using silicone gel sheeting. Another option is undergoing Fraxel laser treatment on the scar. This laser can break up collagen within the scar and aid in scar remodeling. If you're still unsatisfied with the scar's appearance, steroid injections are another potential remedy. Additionally, surgical scar revision, which involves excising and re-suturing the scar, is an option.

From what you've shared, you seem to have achieved commendable results. To further enhance these outcomes, consider pursuing additional weight loss. This can reduce the size of your peritoneal cavity, leading to a flatter abdomen.

I hope this addresses your concerns regarding the state of your tummy tuck results 10 months post-procedure. Best of luck moving forward.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Go back to your surgeon and see if liposuction will benefit you. Liposuction is not done in the lower abdomen during a tummy tuck for safety reasons to your skin. However, it can be safely done after you have healed from the tuck.

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss! With major weight loss often comes significant skin laxity which may lead to a little revision even after a tummy tuck. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon. It is possible further skin excision, fat removal, or both will improve your results. I've included a video that I hope you find helpful.