Abs appear narrow 15 months after tummy tuck with diastasis recti repair - what caused this and can it be corrected? (photo)

Question

I am 15 months out from TT. I’ve always been thin but had DR that was affecting my functioning. My question now is that it looks like my abs are too narrow, and when I am standing relaxed they protrude out down the midline in an unnatural way. I still have just as much lower back pain, which I was hoping would improve with the surgery. My doctor said he folds the abs in on each other a little when plicating - is that normal or did he do it too tight? Is it possible/worth trying to fix?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cardenrs,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to determine what may have caused your concern with the photo provided.  If the contour was good after surgery but has worsened over the 15 months potential causes could be weight gain (visceral fat), GI issues, or potential muscle repair failure.  The correction would be based on the underlying cause.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It's possible that the appearance of your abs after a tummy tuck (TT) procedure can be affected by the technique used during the procedure, such as the method of plication (suturing the separated abdominal muscles back together). Folding the muscles in on each other is a common technique used during plication, and some degree of asymmetry can occur due to the natural variations in the anatomy of the abdominal muscles.

It's also possible that your abdominal muscles were tightened too much during the procedure, which can cause the unnatural protrusion you're describing. In some cases, this may lead to persistent pain or discomfort in the lower back.

If you're experiencing these issues, it's important to schedule a follow-up consultation with your plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and explore your options for revision surgery. Your surgeon can evaluate your individual situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

Keep in mind that revision surgery can carry some risk, and it's important to only seek treatment from a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of revision surgery and help you make an informed decision about your options for correcting the appearance of your abs and reducing any associated pain or discomfort.

Best of luck !

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest going back to your surgeon, being examined, and discussing your options for your abdomen.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

It's hard to answer based on the one photo but my guess is that it is not related to the plication--it is almost impossible to plicate someone too tight because the tissue would tear if you try to get the muscles to overlap. I think the bulge will be corrected by weight loss. I think there is some visceral fat that is causing you the bulge.

Abs appear narrow 15 months after tummy tuck with diastasis recti repair - what caused this and can it be corrected? (photo)

Answers (6)

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Answer: Abdomen

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Abs appear narrow 15 months after tummy tuck with diastasis recti repair - what caused this and can it be corrected? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Bulge after a TT

Answer: Bulge after a TT

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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.