Unknown bulge above belly button after liposuction. What is it? How to remove it? (Photo)

Hi Philosophical6160,
I have reviewed your photos, and pinpointing the exact cause of the irregularity that you see above your umbilicus can be challenging without being able to examine you in person, however, I think there are a number of possibilities:1. There is residual adiposity (fat) in this area relative to the surrounding tissues. If this is the case, a little 'touch-up' liposuction to this area with focus on fat equalization may help.2. You have rectus diastasis in this area (separation of the abdominal muscles). This issue would be addressed during an abdominoplasty procedure when the separation between the abdominal muscles is closed with suture. 3. The previous liposuction was a bit too superficial in this area, leading to some scarring. This is a more challenging issue to fix with 'touch up' liposuction, but could possibly be addressed during an abdominoplasty, although it is doubtful that this area would be excised or removed during that procedure since it is above the umbilicus. The scar tissue in this region could be divided with cautery during the procedure to try and soften its appearance.4. You could have a hernia in this area. I feel that this is the least likely of the scenarios I describe above, but it remains on the differential diagnosis.
Suffice it to say, I would recommend having an in-person evaluation by a qualified surgeon so that more diagnostic maneuvers can be performed and a plan can be outlined together.
Thank you for your question!
-Roger Smith, MDBeleza SurgeryCedar Park, Texas

Based on these photos there is a possibility that you have muscle diastasis ( a gap between rectus muscles, stretched muscle fascia) or true hernia. It may also be a small fat deposit? You should seek a second opinion by a board certified plastic surgeon to rule out these options. Good luck.