Tummy Tuck Revision

Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology in New York offers tummy tuck revision surgery to improve unsatisfactory results from previous operations. This secondary procedure corrects issues like loose skin, scars, stubborn fat, and asymmetries by redoing incisions and tightening abdominal muscles. Our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, customizes his revision technique to each patient’s unique needs and goals. This surgery provides an excellent opportunity to enhance aesthetic results and boost self-confidence.

What Is Tummy Tuck Revision?

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) revision is a secondary procedure that improves the results of a previous tummy tuck. It is performed when patients are dissatisfied with the outcome of their first abdominoplasty. The goal of revision surgery is to correct issues like loose skin, scars, stubborn fat deposits, and asymmetries. On average, it takes 2-3 hours to complete. The procedure is customized to each patient’s needs and aesthetic goals.

Types of Tummy Tuck Revisions

Minor Revision

Minor tummy tuck revisions are done to fix small imperfections or asymmetry from the initial surgery. This may involve adjusting or replacing the original incision, removing stubborn areas of fat or excess skin that were missed the first time, or repositioning the belly button. The changes made during minor revision surgery are fairly small in scope. They can be done after a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck.

Major Revision

Major revisions involve more comprehensive procedures to correct significant deformities or imperfections. This operation may entail completely redoing the original surgery by detaching the abdominal skin and muscle tissue and fully tightening and redraping the belly. It might also involve changing incision placement and repairing separated abdominal muscles. Major revisions aim to fundamentally improve problems with contours or deformities that were not adequately addressed by the first tummy tuck.

Consultation & Preparation for Tummy Tuck Revision

A tummy tuck revision requires some preparation to ensure optimal outcomes. It begins with a thorough consultation to discuss the patient’s goals, review the issues with the original operation, and develop a surgical plan. The doctor evaluates the individual’s health and examines the abdominal region closely, looking at skin laxity, excess fat, and muscle structure to determine the appropriate technique. We also ask about plans for future pregnancies and weight changes that could impact results.

If the patient is a good candidate, the preoperative process includes lab tests, medication adjustments, arranging transportation and support during initial recovery, and fasting 12 hours before tummy tuck surgery. Quitting smoking is also recommended. Clear communication with the surgical team ensures that the patient knows what to expect from the abdominoplasty procedure and recovery.

Tummy Tuck Revision Procedure

General Anesthesia

The patient is carefully monitored and given general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety during the operation. The anesthesiologist selects the optimal medication and provides it through an IV line to induce an unconscious state for the duration of the surgery. Vital signs are closely watched.

Incisions

The surgeon makes incisions similar to those that were created during the original tummy tuck procedure. This may involve a hip-to-hip cut just above the pubic area and a vertical opening from the belly button down to the horizontal line. The length and pattern of incisions depend on the degree of correction needed.

Repairing Abdominal Muscles

The surgeon may need to tighten and repair separated muscles (diastasis recti) through suturing. This provides additional muscular support and helps achieve a firmer abdominal profile.

Removing Excess Tissue

The surgeon can remove excess skin and fat tissue to improve contours. The amount of correction depends on the patient’s anatomy and goals.

Belly Button Revision

The surgeon may reposition and reshape the belly button to ensure that it appears natural and harmonious with the abdominal profile. This involves suturing and other techniques.

Scar Revision

If the patient has significant scarring from the previous tummy tuck, the surgeon may revise it to be thinner and less visible. This can be done through surgical excision or injection treatments.

Closing Incisions

Once the targeted improvements have been made, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures and surgical tape or glue. Temporary drainage tubes may also be inserted beneath the skin to prevent fluid buildup.

Recovery After Tummy Tuck Revision Surgery

Recovery from this surgery is similar to a standard tummy tuck, though it can take a little longer. There will be swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few weeks. Pain medication and muscle relaxants are typically prescribed to help manage these symptoms.

Patients should walk slightly bent over for the first 7 days to avoid putting tension on the incision sites. The compression garment must be worn for several weeks to provide support as the area heals. Most patients take 14 days off work, avoiding strenuous activity during the initial healing period.

Restrictions are slowly lifted after about 6 weeks, but heavy exercise should wait 3 months after surgery to allow the internal sutures and tissues to fully mend. Complete healing can take up to a year. Following all post-op care instructions is important for optimal recovery. The final tummy tuck results are usually visible after 6 months.

Candidates for Tummy Tuck Revision

Dissatisfied With Initial Results

Patients may be candidates for revision if they are dissatisfied with the results of initial tummy tuck procedures. The most common complaint is inadequate tightening or contouring of the abdomen. Patients may feel that their stomach protrudes too much or appears uneven. A revision procedure helps refine and improve results.

Sufficient Healing from Initial Surgery

Patients should wait 6 months after the initial tummy tuck before surgical revision. This allows tissues to adequately heal. Rushing into a secondary procedure too soon increases risks and complications. This is especially important if the patient has had extensive surgery, such as fleur-de-lis or traditional tummy tuck.

At Stable Weight

People with significant weight fluctuations after their initial tummy tuck often need a revision once their weight stabilizes. If an individual gains or loses many pounds, a corrective surgery can tighten sagging skin or reduce abdominal bulges related to weight gain.

Realistic Expectations

Good candidates have realistic expectations about what a revision tummy tuck can achieve. While a corrective operation enhances the appearance, there are limits to how much improvement is possible. Discussing goals with the plastic surgeon is important.

Committed to Self-Care

The best candidates are committed to caring for themselves through proper nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle habits, which help prolong the cosmetic improvements. Patients should be emotionally ready for surgery and able to follow postoperative instructions.

Benefits of Tummy Tuck Revision

Tummy tuck revisions are common because many surgeries do not yield the expected results. Patients are often dissatisfied with the aesthetic outcomes or functional problems after the first abdominoplasty. Luckily, a corrective operation performed by an established professional like Dr. Greenberg can help resolve these issues. Our cosmetic surgery provides the following benefits:

• Improves results from an unsatisfactory initial surgery by reducing residual loose skin or stubborn fatty deposits
• Enhances the overall aesthetic outcome in the abdominal region for a more toned, defined look
• Corrects stretched muscles and reduces abdominal bulge that sometimes persists after the first surgery
• Reduces the appearance of surgical scars from the old procedure
• Boosts self-confidence for patients by giving them the slimmer, firmer abdominal profile they desire
• Allows people to fully realize their goals for body contouring

Cost of Tummy Tuck Revision in New York

Secondary tummy tuck cost in New York ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. The price varies depending on the extent of the correction needed, the type of anesthesia, and the surgeon’s fees. Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology offers the best surgical expertise, reasonable prices, and compassionate care. Patients can learn about their tummy tuck surgery cost during the initial consultation with Dr. Greenberg and his team.