Tummy Tuck Revision

Everyone wants the perfect abs, and some people want them more than others. They’ll drink smoothies every morning for breakfast, eat kale and spinach for lunch–maybe a sliver of chicken for dinner, and of course, there’s hours and hours of intense exercise. But nobody is perfect. Most people can’t conform to that kind of routine and even those who do will have to live with imperfections. That’s why so many people scrimp and save, work extra hours, and take on second jobs all so they can afford a tummy tuck. But when they do, they might not be satisfied with the results. That’s what tummy tuck revisions are for.

What is Tummy Tuck Revision?
Types of Tummy Tuck Revision
Why Tummy Tuck Revision?
What are Concerns for Tummy Tuck Revision?
Steps to getting your procedure
Cost of Tummy Tuck Revision
Why Yes Doctor for Tummy Tuck Revision
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes Doctor’s Plastic Surgery Procedure Tummy Tuck Revision

What is Tummy Tuck Revision?

A tummy tuck revision, also known as a secondary abdominoplasty, is a second surgical operation that patients receive when they experience dissatisfactory results after undergoing a tummy tuck. Like the traditional procedure, it is a major operation, which nearly always involves the use of general anesthetic. Both procedures are known for having one of the highest complication rates of any cosmetic operation, but tummy tuck revisions are not always as complex as their counterpart. They’re often seen as a “touch up,” meant to address smaller issues. There are many reasons why someone would want to go through with the procedure. There are complications that could occur, including dog-ear deformities–a type of bunched up mass of excess skin–or a pocket of left behind fat. Some patients simply prefer to have a second operation because they want to rid themselves of major aesthetic concerns, including thick raised scars and improper scarring placement. Sometimes wounds don’t heal properly and they need to be repaired. Maybe the results of the procedure aren’t as drastic as patients would like them to be. There is a vast array of different techniques involved in the operation, each developed to address the issues that patients are most likely to seek treatment for.

After receiving their first tummy tuck, patients typically have to wait about a year for skin and tissue to settle, and also for the swelling to go down. The results won’t be fully apparent until that time. This wait can sometimes cause a certain amount of anxiety for patients, but typically they are happy with the end results of their first procedure when they finally do see them. If a patient does notice a problem, the first step is to look into finding a provider. Sometimes complications and dissatisfactory results are a product of incompetence or a lack of communication between a surgeon and the patient. In this case, it might be a good idea to find another provider who can undo what’s already been done. Once a patient has found the right person for the job, they will undergo an extensive consultation. Patients should tell the doctor every detail, and make sure that that the doctor understands their specific aesthetic goals. These goals will be taken into account along with the results of testing, imaging, examinations, and any preexisting conditions or medications the patient may be taking. All of these various factors will be used to create an individual treatment plan. 

Types of Tummy Tuck Revision

  • Which Tummy Tuck Revision is Right for You?

    The methodology utilized during a tummy tuck revision depends on the complications and aesthetic concerns that caused the patient to seek treatment. Tummy tucks have been in use for many decades. They’re considered an artform, so providers often spend half of their lives studying and working to perfect their craft. This has led to a constant stream of advancements, findings, and practices that have been put to use to develop countless different surgical techniques. It’s been said that there are as many forms of tummy tucks as there are surgeons who practice them. It’s the same with tummy tuck revisions. Different surgeons go about solving the same problems in different ways. For that reason, the list below was devised to go over concerns and complications, not techniques. There is a standard set of reasons why patients choose to undergo a tummy tuck procedure. Some occur more often than others, but typically they tend to land into several different categories. Methodology on the other hand is far too diverse to cover. The burden of research belongs to the patient. The results of the procedure may depend on whether or not the patient is capable of understanding what that procedure entails and what to expect during every step of the process.

  • Scarring

    There are several issues that can occur involving scarring. Sometimes the wounds don't heal properly, and the scar has to be repaired in some way. In some cases, the scar may have been placed in the wrong area. Sometimes doctors have to open it up or cut it out then close it with sutures. There have been cases where the scar was too high up or too low. Some patients want to have it hidden to keep it from showing above the bikini line. Hypertrophic scars can also be a problem. They’re thick and highly visible. The procedures used to fix these issues are custom-tailored to fit the specific situation.

  • Dog Ear

    Dog ear removal is one of the easiest procedures to perform, and unlike most tummy tuck revisions, it doesn’t require the use of general anesthesia. Instead doctors administer local anesthetic. A dog ear is a small amount of loose skin left over at the ends of the incision site. They were given that name because they resemble a dog’s floppy ears. They’re a result of an undersized incision. Sometimes this is due to poor surgical planning, and sometimes they occur because the patient requested a smaller  incision to cut down on scarring. Either way, they are easily removed. The skin is cut away, and the wound is sealed with a suture. 

  • Leftover Fat

    Tummy tucks are usually performed in conjunction with liposuction. It’s only natural, because it allows surgeons to slim the abdomen and enhance the region’s aesthetic appeal. When patients forego the added procedure, they will often come back to the office and have excess fat removed. Sometimes when liposuction is performed surgeons will leave behind clumps or pockets of fat. They can be misshapen or awkwardly placed, and they tend to stand out. This is usually resolved through the traditional method. A small incision will be made, and a tumescent fluid will be pumped through to break the cells down before they are suctioned out. 

  • Loose Skin

    Primary tummy tucks include the removal of excess skin. They’re meant to provide a slim, smooth surface, but sometimes that’s not always the case. Patients may notice skin hanging low or patches that weren’t removed properly. Sometimes loose skin removal is integrated as part of an additional liposuction procedure. The removal of fat does leave behind an empty sagging space. In some cases, the entire tummy tuck process may have to be repeated depending on the severity of this problem. Either way, skin removal can be intensive. Patients may have to go through a lengthy recovery period, and there is a risk of side effects. 

Why Tummy Tuck Revision?

The abdomen is associated with a lot of different emotions. The shape matters. People judge us by it. It can determine whether we’re well liked, dismissed, loved, or hated. Everyone understands that. It’s also closely associated with sexuality. There’s nothing sexier than a perfect six pack or a smooth, slim stomach. Without that, people have trouble seeing us as potential mates and lovers or a potential spouse. Tummy tucks are about achieving something, striving to be more, pushing ourselves harder, and finally gaining the look we’ve always wanted. That is within reach. So long as we work hard and save, the right aesthetic can be achieved. But when things go wrong, it’s easy to lose hope. Nobody wants an awkward lump of misplaced fat or skin draping down their belly. A botched tummy tuck can be a lot worse than no tummy tuck. That’s what makes revisions worthwhile. Tummy tuck revisions have a high success rate. Unlike many other types of revisional procedures, patients tend to be satisfied with the results. It’s rare to see them coming in for a second or third operation after it has been performed. So there are many good reasons to have the surgery, and it’s not a lose cause. Here are a few more reasons why patients choose to have a tummy tuck revision:

  • Reduce Scarring
  • Remove Awkward Abnormalities
  • Perfect the Process
  • Turn Heads
  • Feel Good About Yourself

What are Concerns for Tummy Tuck Revision?

Tummy tuck revisions are very diverse. Don’t think of them as one procedure, because they are not. They’re a vast array of surgical techniques, each with their own risk of complications and side effects. What that means is that patients will have to put in the necessary time to understand them and the alternatives. There is usually some degree of choice involved. Doctors do take a patient's aesthetic goals into account. It’s also important to understand how to prepare for each procedure. Providers usually have a list of steps to follow, and they will also go over the patient’s medical history to ensure that they can safely undergo the operation. Some medical conditions will make that impossible. Certain medications, supplements, OTC pills, and illicit substances can also prohibit treatment. Patients may have to meet with their medical provider to lessen their dosages or abstain from their usual medication completely. Research these details and also sit down with the provider and ask them questions. Make sure to build a cohesive, communicative dynamic with them. That can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to recovery. Certain types of tummy tuck revisions require long periods of down time. They can be very similar to the experience of recovering from a primary tummy tuck, which can be an intensive experience. So know what’s coming and be prepared.

  • Candidacy

    The qualifications for different types of tummy tuck revisions vary heavily. Removing a dog ear is not the same as undergoing liposuction or a full tummy tuck revision. In general, patients undergoing the surgery should be in good health and free of certain medical conditions, including bleeding disorders, blood disorders, certain types of immune disorders, poor wound healing, and a history of recurring infections. Patients should also have a BMI under 30. They should be close to their ideal weight, and they should not be pregnant or planning on having children in the near future. Patients who are not given a clean bill of health may be able to find alternatives.

  • Preparing for Tummy Tuck Revision

    Preparations for a tummy tuck revision also vary heavily depending on the type of procedure. In general, patients who plan on undergoing surgery should avoid certain types of medications, including OTC pain pills and anti-inflammatories such as Advil or ibuprofen. They could cause bleeding or make it difficult for the body to recover from the procedure. Smoking can have the same effect. It tends to delay healing. Patients should avoid smoking for at least six weeks before the operation, along with alcohol for at least 10 days. Many patients find that exercise, hydration, and a healthy diet can help the recovery process. Mental preparation is also important.

  • Recovery

    Recovering from a tummy tuck revision can be as simple as applying a bandaid, or it could be the long, strenuous process that patients went through after their primary tummy tuck. When that is the case, patients usually take about 12 weeks to feel like their old selves again. During that time there will be some pain and discomfort. Patients may be given a compression garment to wear for a specific period. Some surgeries require a drainage system to allow fluid to flow out of the body as well. Instructions for those will be given after the procedure. Usually it’s possible to return to work after 1-2 weeks.

Steps to getting your procedure

Research-icon

Step 1

Research

Step 2

Matching with a doctor

Step 3

Getting financing

Step 4

Booking a consultation

Cost of Tummy Tuck Revision

Tummy tuck revisions are unique in that the surgeon who originally performed the primary abdominoplasty is often willing to waive their fee if a patient requests a secondary operation. That doesn’t mean patients can undergo the procedure for free. They will still have to pay for anesthesia, hospital costs, and certain medications, among other things. But it does significantly reduce the price. The general price range varies widely, largely due to the various techniques that may or may not be used during the operation. Usually it falls somewhere between $5,000 to $50,000. Surgeries that are more extensive, such as a full tummy tuck revision or a revision with liposuction cost quite a bit more. But if patients need something as simple as a dog ear removal or a scar revision, they will only end up paying around $5,000 to $9,000. These costs compound if patients choose to undergo a third or fourth operation, but there is a high satisfaction rate, so that’s not likely to occur. There are other factors that go into determining the cost. The geographic region where the procedure is performed will have a huge impact, as well as the skills, the qualifications, and the reputation of the provider.

Why Yes Doctor for Tummy Tuck Revision

Cosmetic surgery is not a quick, seamless process. It requires skill, patience, and a keen eye. There’s an art to it. Patients can’t close their eyes and hope that everything will turn out alright. They have to find the right person for the job, and that requires resources. Yes Doctor was created to give patients everything they need to find the perfect provider. We have reviews, background information, and lists of qualifications. We also have easy financing options that make cosmetic procedures accessible to everyone. Patients can break their payments up into affordable installments, and some even qualify for 0% APR. Apply today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Some types of tummy tuck revisions such as scar revision and dog ear deformity removal are permanent. They involve altering the body or removing something in such a way that cannot be reversed. But there are certain factors that can loosen the abdominal muscles, produce excess skin, and cause fat to grow back. The most important factor is the patient’s lifestyle. Surgeons tend to prefer to work with patients who diet and exercise, because that means that the skin and muscles are likely to stay tight and firm, and it also means that they are less likely to build up fat in the abdominal region.
One of the more unfortunate side effects of a botched tummy tuck is the misplacement of the belly button. It can be located higher, lower, or even off to the side, and it can take on an awkward appearance. This is one of the most common reasons why patients seek out a secondary procedure. It may sound strange, but the belly button can be repositioned quite easily. This is done by removing a strip of skin from the abdomen and pulling the belly button towards the desired area. The goal is to make it look natural and to hide any sign that a procedure was performed.
Scars are often referred to as permanent, and in a sense, that is true. When they reach a certain level of severity, they don’t fade. The skin remains tough and discolored. But portions of the scar can be cut away. It is possible to help induce healing, allowing the scar to fade somewhat. Laser skin resurfacing or chemical peels can sometimes cause them to peel off, though this is difficult when they’re large or deep. There are also surgical procedures that can move a scar and reposition it so that it seems to camouflage itself in the surrounding area. It can even be placed in a fold of skin where it can be hidden.
The real question when it comes to tummy tuck revisions is whether or not the procedure is actually necessary. That is a personal choice, but it should be an informed one. It’s important to remember that the results of a tummy tuck don’t typically show up until months after the procedure is performed. The body takes time to heal. Swelling sticks around, and that affects the appearance of loose skin. Scars of course fade over time. It’s best to wait to see the end result before making the decision to receive another operation. Doctors usually space the primary and secondary tummy tuck about a year apart.