Hard abdomen above my incision scar. Would I benefit from lipo on the lower ab? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck with muscle repair 6 months ago and have noticed in the last 3 months or so that my abdomen is hard right above my incision and my lower abdomen is not flat as i want it to be. I was expecting a much flatter abdomen than what i have. I also have fat right below my breasts and it bothers me. I had my 6 month post op and my surgeon told me my lower abdomen is my muscle that is hard. He recommended i get lipo on the lower ab where its hard and my upper abs as well.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is very common to have some hardness above the incision line and or on the incision line.  Scar tissue builds up and typically will soften up overtime.  Lymphatic massage is a great option to help soften that area.  It is also very common to need some additional liposuction post tummy tuck.  Surgeons have to be careful with the amount of liposuction they do at the same time as a tummy tuck.  If you choose to do some liposuction your Surgeon can contour the entire midsection and reduce down that bottom part of your belly as well.  I would speak with your Surgeon to make sure all your concerns are addressed.  Best of luck to you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Enthusiastic949608,
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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If what you are noticing is indeed fatty pockets, then you should have improvement with some liposuction to the area.  Your surgeon will advise when it is okay to move forward with the procedure.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Enthusiastic949608, thank you for your question and showing you pictures. Several factors should be considered, including the surgical technique applied, evaluating whether anything else is going on at a systemic level, obtaining additional testing to establish what happened and deciding on a surgical plan based on your needs and expectations. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Ayse Kalay, MD · Answer

It will be enough to have liposuction. You do not need a tummy tuck, but if you wish, mini abdominalplasty can be done.

Hard abdomen above my incision scar. Would I benefit from lipo on the lower ab? (Photo)

Answers (5)