Abdominoplasty Revision Surgery: Perfecting the Best Results

Abdominoplasty, also called tummy tuck surgery, can help shape and contour the abdomen for a smoother appearance. In some cases, the original procedure may not produce satisfactory results and complications may arise afterwards.

Revision abdominoplasty surgery is designed to correct these issues and improve your abdominal contour.

Key Takeaways of Abdominoplasty Revision

• A tummy tuck revision procedure helps improve the appearance of the abdomen and correct complications or unsatisfactory results from an initial surgery.
• Abdominoplasty may take up to 12 weeks for recovery and usually require general anesthesia during surgery.
• Patients should discuss their individual case details and desired outcome goals with a qualified plastic surgeon prior to undergoing abdominoplasty revision, in order to ensure optimal results post operatively.

Understanding Abdominoplasty Revision

It is important to know the signs of a botched abdominoplasty and when it may be time to consider revision surgery in order to achieve desired outcomes.

Signs of a Botched Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck can create a slimmer, more contoured abdomen. The outcome of an abdominoplasty is only as good as that of the surgeon performing it. Signs of a botched tummy tuck include improper repositioning of the navel in the belly button, leaving excess skin and excess tissue behind, resulting in lumpy or poorly contoured skin and severe asymmetry between both sides of the abdomen.

Poor positioning and misalignment of the belly button are common signs to look out for which may require umbilicoplasty during revision surgery, while too much fat removal on one side or trauma to delicate internal structures could cause unbalanced tummy tuck scars, indentations or inconsistent bulging.

When to Consider a Tummy Tuck Revision

Women who are unsatisfied with their initial tummy tuck results, or those who experience complications after their surgery should consider a revision abdominoplasty. Common signs of a botched tummy tuck include the development of fatty bulges, areas of fat that remain behind after the procedure, and inadequate removal of skin and tissue. Any irregularities in shape or visible scarring may also indicate that a revision is needed.

It is generally recommended that patients wait at least one year before undergoing a full tummy tuck revision to allow sufficient time for recovery from the initial surgery. During this period, symptoms like pain and swelling may disappear naturally and even mistakes made during the first operation could potentially correct themselves over time depending on individual circumstances.

What Happens during a Tummy Tuck Revision

During a tummy tuck revision, the plastic surgeon aims to correct and improve any complications or unsatisfactory results from a previous abdominoplasty. The goal is to achieve an aesthetically pleasing and natural looking abdomen with improved abdominal contouring and tightness when desired.

The technique used during the procedure can vary depending on the patient’s goals, objectives, and underlying anatomy. It involves cutting around existing scar tissue to access any weak points which may need correction or reinforcement as well as liposuction if necessary for improved contouring.

Recovery and Results

When undergoing abdominoplasty revision surgery, patients should plan for a recovery period of up to 12 weeks. During this time, light activity and exercise will need to be restricted until 3 to 4 weeks after the procedure when more strenuous activities may be resumed.

Post Operative Care and Aftercare

After an abdominoplasty revision, follow post operative instructions to heal properly, and attend all scheduled follow up appointments. The abdomen is covered by surgical dressings after surgery, these must be kept clean and dry at all times until they can be removed according to your surgeon’s recommendations.

In the immediate postoperative period, patients are advised not to stand fully upright in order to avoid affecting the results of previous surgery or risking injury, although this ability should gradually return within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery.

Scarring and Scar Revision Options

Many patients confirm that there are many effective options for minimizing the appearance of tummy tuck scars. Scar revision surgery is one solution that can be used to reduce and refine existing scarring by removing or re-positioning skin tissue, and can also improve any discoloration associated with the released area.

Dermabrasion is a non surgical option that uses fine tools to lightly smooth out surface level irregularities in order to diminish the visibility of a scar. Both techniques have the potential to improve aesthetic results from abdominal surgery when applied soon after healing has occurred in order to ensure complete maturation prior to scar revision.

Risks and Complications

Hematoma or bleeding beneath the skin can occur after a tummy tuck revision recovery abdominoplasty and hypertension is a risk factor for developing this condition. Asymmetry in results may also be an unwanted outcome of a tummy tuck revision.

Psychological complications such as depression or anxiety related to concerns about body image can develop after surgery, highlighting the importance of finding qualified plastic surgeons that are experienced with providing safe outcomes while ensuring pre operative patient expectations are realistic.

Maintaining Results

Long Term Maintenance of the Desired Outcome

It is important for tummy tuck patients to be aware of the importance of long term maintenance. Weight gain after surgery can cause significant changes in the results, including sagging skin and loss of tissue tone. Leading a sedentary lifestyle or neglecting regular exercise may lead to weakened abdominal muscles afterward, and could hinder any improvements from the procedure.

To ensure longevity in their desired outcome, it’s critical that abdominal procedures are coupled with weekly physical activities.

Exercising regularly 4 to 5 days a week, eating a balanced diet with protein sources, complex carbohydrates as well as vegetables will optimize recovery while also avoiding problems such as excessive fluid retention in areas that were treated with the tummy tuck procedure.

Follow-up Appointments and Monitoring

After abdominoplasty revision surgery, it is essential for patients to attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon. These postoperative checkups are crucial for monitoring progress and healing and avoiding any further complications.

Case Studies and Testimonials

Viewing before and after photos, patient experiences and outcomes are beneficial to examine when considering abdominoplasty revision or other plastic surgery procedures.

Before and After Photos

When considering a procedure like revision tummy tuck, it is important to review before and after photos of the surgeon’s work. Photos can give potential patients an idea of what kind of results they can expect from choosing a particular plastic surgeon.

Taking time to compare surgeons based on their patient’s before and after images allows for better evaluation and informed decision making regarding which one will provide the desired outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Abdominoplasty Revision

1. What is an Abdominoplasty Revision?

An abdominoplasty revision, also known as tummy tuck revision, is a surgical procedure that can improve the appearance of your abdomen after a failed abdominoplasty procedure. 

2. Who should Consider Getting an Abdominoplasty Revision?

People who are unsatisfied with their initial abdominoplasty should consider getting an abdominoplasty revision. The procedure can also help restore weakened ab muscles caused by aging or genetics.

3. Are there any Risks Associated with Tummy Tuck Revision Surgery?

The risks of having this type of surgery include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, scarring and uneven results due to incomplete removal of fat deposits or skin laxity issues during the initial surgery process. These specific complications are rare when performed by a certified plastic surgeon using safety standards established for medical procedures.

Conclusion and Summary of Abdominoplasty Revision Surgery: Perfecting the Best Results

The decision to undergo a tummy tuck revision should be carefully considered and discussed with your board certified plastic surgeon. Expectations must be realistic, as revisions can sometimes produce slightly different results compared to expectations or the initial procedure.

It is important for patients to recognize their individual circumstances and goals in order to determine the best approach for achieving satisfactory outcomes from a tummy tuck revision.

It is important to choose an experienced and board certified plastic surgeon with qualifications in body contouring surgery. Pre operative preparation is also vital prior to getting the tummy tuck scar and procedure done.

Please note that this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Before making any changes to your treatments, please consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the appropriateness and safety of such changes.

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About the Author

Dr. Brandon Richland, MD is a respected Board Certified Licensed Plastic Surgeon in Orange County / Southern California specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.

Driven by his passion for medicine, Dr. Richland obtained his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the prestigious program at Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine in 2013. His exceptional skills were recognized when he received the McGraw Hill / Lange Medical Student Academic Achievement Award, and graduated top of his class with Honors. For his undergraduate degree, he attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated with Honors in 2009.

To further enhance his surgical expertise, Dr. Richland completed his Residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) from 2013 to 2019 earning the Academic Achievement Award twice during this period. A total of 14 years in dedicated schooling and medical residency.

Dr. Richland is actively involved with healthcare and medical societies, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Contact Dr. Richland today by visiting RichlandMD.com, scheduling a cosmetic consultation, or by calling 949-867-4496 directly.

Cover Image Credit: Liudmilachernetska / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.