What Can Be Done For An Ugly Tummy Tuck Scar and Uneven Love Handles?

Q: I have had breast augmention and a full tummy tuck with liposuction about 8 years ago. I have been happy with my breasts but never really happy with the rest of my surgery. My tummy has a huge uneven scar that goes from hipbone to hip bone. My belly bottom was moved, which I expected, but there is a scar fron my belly button to the horizontal scar with no way of hiding it in a swim suit . Also, my tummy and love handles are uneven as far as being flat. They are lump and uneven. Can you help me?

A: Tummy tucks are a much bigger operation than most breast augmentations. Because they involve cutting out tissues and extensive reshaping, they also result in more imperfections such as prominent scars and uneven areas across the stomach and waistline. Revisions of tummy tucks are probably more common than that of breast augmentations. Tummy tuck scars can end up wide and uneven because of the tension on them at the time of closure. Revisions of tummy tuck scars always makes them look better as they do not involve as much tension on the wound closure. Scars can get both more narrow and even. In some cases, they can even be made to go a little lower than before. Liposuction can reduce uneven areas of fat across the stomach and into the flanks and back. Many tummy tucks benefit from secondary liposuction in the upper abdomen (which can be safely done during the first procedure because of blood supply concerns) and the pubic area. (which often becomes more noticeable with the tighter waistline.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana