Case Study: Complex Abdominal Reconstruction with Tummy Tuck

Patient Profile

Name: Riya (39-year-old corporate professional)

Concern: Post-pregnancy abdominal laxity, multiple hernias, and an existing midline scar from a previous emergency laparotomy (due to a ruptured appendix).

Challenges:

• • Significant skin laxity and excess fat resistant to diet and exercise.
  • A previous vertical midline scar that disrupted the natural contours of her abdomen.
  • Presence of three abdominal hernias, leading to further structural weakness and bulging.
  • The need for both aesthetic enhancement and functional abdominal wall reconstruction.

The Surgical Challenge

Riya’s case was particularly complex due to the combination of cosmetic and reconstructive elements involved. The presence of multiple hernias, combined with a vertical midline scar, required a multi-layered surgical approach, integrating:

• Hernia repair for three abdominal wall defects.
• Abdominal muscle plication to restore core strength and improve contour.
• Scar revision and repositioning, lowering the previous midline scar to be concealed within the bikini line.
• 360-degree Liposuction-assisted contouring for enhanced definition and a more natural result.

Unlike a routine tummy tuck, this procedure demanded precise planning to ensure structural reinforcement of the abdominal wall while simultaneously delivering an aesthetically pleasing outcome.

ALSO READ: Patient Review: Abdominal Bulk Reduction Surgery with Dr. Anmol Chugh

Surgical Plan & Execution

1. Preoperative Marking & Planning: Detailed assessment of hernias, scar tissue, and excess skin was performed to determine incision placement and reconstruction strategy.
2. Hernia Repair: The hernias were meticulously repaired using a tension-free suturing technique, restoring the integrity of the abdominal wall.
3. Muscle Tightening (Rectus Plication): The separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (diastasis recti) was addressed to enhance core strength and flatten the abdomen.
4. Tummy Tuck & Scar Repositioning: The excess skin was removed, and the previous midline scar was relocated to a lower, more concealed position, significantly improving aesthetics.
5. Liposuction & Refinement: Targeted fat removal was performed to enhance definition and smooth transitions between the abdominal and flank areas, plus the back.

Postoperative Results & Transformation

Before Surgery:

• Sagging skin and a protruding abdomen due to muscle weakness.
• Midline scar from previous surgery positioned higher up, making it prominent.
• Multiple abdominal hernias, contributing to structural instability.

After Surgery:

• Restored abdominal wall strength with all hernias successfully repaired.
• Flattened and contoured abdomen with a lower, more discreet scar placement.
• Significant improvement in body shape and symmetry, allowing the patient to wear fitted clothing with confidence.

See the transformation images below for visual comparison.

Recovery & Functional Improvement

• The patient resumed light activities within 2 weeks, with gradual improvement in mobility.
• By 8 weeks post-surgery, she experienced significant core strength improvement and no residual discomfort from the previous hernias.
• The lower scar placement allowed her to wear all types of clothing confidently, with minimal visible signs of surgery.

Key Takeaways

✅ Complex abdominal wall repair and contouring achieved in a single procedure.
✅ Structural integrity restored with hernia repair and muscle tightening.
✅ Aesthetic outcomes optimized by scar repositioning and contour refinement.
✅ Patient regained confidence, functionality, and an improved body profile.

This case highlights the power of advanced body contouring combined with functional reconstruction. For patients facing similar challenges—whether due to pregnancy, previous surgeries, or weight fluctuations—a well-planned tummy tuck can offer both cosmetic enhancement and critical abdominal wall restoration.

ALSO READ: Case Study – Indian Tummy Tuck – 51 year old female Tummy tuck with 360 Liposuction

👉 If you’re considering a transformation like this, schedule a consultation with Dr. Anmol Chugh today!