Options to try to correct the uneven contour after Tummy Tuck? (photos)

Question

10 months since I had a full tummy tuck and liposuction only on my flanks. I am unhappy with the results due to the lines and unevenness of my skin. My stomach is soft and there are no hard areas. My surgeon’s conclusion is that the lines are a strange result from the small cannula used to insert anesthetic during the procedure. He has offered to try to correct it, but admits I could be left with a worse result. What options are there and are they likely to leave a smooth result.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for a question regarding options to correct the uneven contour after a tummy tuck. Thank you also for your pictures. In examining your pictures you have uneven excess skin with wrinkling probably due to the liposuction. In my opinion, if you have more liposuction the problem will get worse, not better. Examining your skin, you have stretch marks and cellulite. Therefore more liposuction regardless of the cannula size will make this problem worse not better. Therefore, in my opinion, I would revise the abdominoplasty. I would pull the skin tighter. I would use the prior scar to dissect up to the sternum, plicate the rectus abdominis muscle lift, reduce the pubic region, and tighten the loose skin. I hope this helps to answer your question regarding ways to correct the uneven contour of your abdomen after a tummy tuck.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The contour irregularities on your abdomen may be improved with Morpheus8 treatments.  This can stimulate collagen production to improve skin tone and texture.  Three treatment sessions are recommended for optimal results.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Is it possible that the undermining of the superiorly based abdominal flap was not wide enough leading to tension irregularities  on the skin?  Or this may be due to progressive tension sutures that are sometimes placed in abdominoplasty.  A revision to widely undermine the skin should correct this.  It may also lead to removing the small vertical scar on the lower midline.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear A2B3C4,
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

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

The definitive correction for liposuction deformities requires the advanced technology of ultrasound assisted VASER liposuction. As an official trainer of VASER liposuction, I encounter suboptimal liposuction outcome referrals weekly. VASER liposuction has been the only modality that has consistently corrected liposuction caused deformities. VASER liposuction ensures a smooth contour regardless of severity of contour irregularities by virtue of being able to remove any and all remaining fat comprehensively and uniformly. Finally, when skin redundancy irregularities are observed, Renuvion technology can be simultaneously applied to tighten your skin to optimize your overall contour outcome. A Skype or FaceTime consultation with a VASER specialist will help you get an accurate recommendation and pricing.

Respectfully, 
Arian Mowlavi MD, FACS
Realself 100 Hall of Fame Inductee

Options to try to correct the uneven contour after Tummy Tuck? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Uneven Contour from Previous Liposuction

Answer: Uneven Contour from Previous Liposuction

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Options to try to correct the uneven contour after Tummy Tuck? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Tummy tuck results

Answer: Uneven Contour from Previous Liposuction

Answer: Uneven Contour from Previous Liposuction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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