A tummy tuck revision can correct any issues that arise after an initial abdominoplasty. It is a complex procedure that can help fix irregularities such as remaining excess skin and scarring. A tummy tuck revision can address several issues including; irregular abdominal wall tightening, inappropriate belly button positioning, too high or wide scars, excess skin and fat bulges. Every patient will have a customized surgical plan depending on their issue.
It is common for the surgeon to reshape the belly button through an umbilicoplasty to improve the appearance of scars. A liposuction procedure may be advised if a patient suffers from excess fat. The surgeon may recommend a mini tummy tuck for patients who have excess skin and fat below the belly button. Surgeons may need to repeat the complete tummy tuck for more extensive issues such as skin laxity above and below the umbilicus and muscle tightening.
Tummy tuck revision is a challenging procedure. It is essential to approach a doctor with competent skills and experience for this procedure.
A typical tummy tuck revision procedure requires general anesthetic. It can take 4-7 hours but is usually less invasive than the first tummy tuck surgery. Almost all revisions will require a low curved incision at the same site as the initial surgery. First, surgeons will lift the skin and fat off the abdominal wall, addressing the underlying issues. They pull the skin taut and remove any excess before constructing a new belly button.
If the revision procedure targets scar tissue, the surgeon may recommend using other techniques to fade the scars. These can include silicone sheets, resurfacing laser, Embrace Scar Therapy and microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma. It is important for patients to know that weight fluctuation can affect the results of the revision surgery. Weight gain can weaken the abdominal muscle, while weight loss can cause loose skin and pregnancy will stretch out the skin.
