After a tummy tuck, some patients notice small bulges or extra fat near the incision—these are commonly called “dog ears.” While frustrating, dog ears are treatable. In this guide, Dr. William explains what dog ears are, what causes them, and the most effective ways to correct them for a smoother, more natural result.
What Are Dog Ears?
Dog ears are small bulges of extra skin or fat that appear at the ends of a tummy tuck scar. Imagine a dog’s ear—where one part sticks out beyond the other. That’s the visual effect these bulges create when there is excess tissue at the ends of a surgical incision.
What Causes Dog Ears?
Dog ears can form for several reasons:
- Extra skin: When too much skin remains at the edges after a tummy tuck.
- Leftover fat: If fat isn’t fully removed during the procedure, it may collect at the incision ends.
Why It’s Important to Identify the Cause
Whether the bulge is skin or fat will determine the best solution. That’s why a proper evaluation is key.
Skin or Fat? How to Tell the Difference
Here are a few ways to check what may be causing your dog ears:
- Touch: Soft and squishy? Probably fat. Firm and folded? Likely extra skin.
- Appearance: Folds or flaps = skin. Soft bulge under skin = fat.
If you’re unsure, a board-certified plastic surgeon can give you a clear diagnosis.
How to Fix Dog Ears After a Tummy Tuck
Treatment depends on the cause:
Removing Extra Skin
If the dog ear is caused by excess skin, a minor revision surgery can help. This typically involves:
- A small triangular skin excision
- Local anesthesia
- Minimal recovery time
Removing Leftover Fat (Liposuction)
If the bulge is from fat, liposuction is the best option. Dr. William often uses Ogee Liposculpting—a technique that precisely contours the area using a thin cannula.
Real Example: Fixing a Dog Ear with Liposuction
One patient had a noticeable bulge near the hip after a tummy tuck. It wasn’t extra skin—it was fat. Dr. William performed liposuction on the area, and the bulge disappeared completely. This case shows how well liposuction can resolve fat-based dog ears.
Important Tips for Tummy Tuck Recovery
- Talk to your doctor: Only a qualified surgeon can assess what’s really going on.
- Be patient: Healing takes time. Swelling and tissue changes can continue for months.
Conclusion
Dog ears after a tummy tuck can be annoying—but they’re also highly treatable. Whether it’s extra skin or fat, solutions like minor surgery or liposuction can help you achieve the smooth, contoured results you expected from your tummy tuck.
Schedule Your Complimentary Evaluation with Dr. William
Not sure if what you’re seeing is fat or skin? Let Dr. William help.
👉 Click here to schedule your complimentary consultation.
For more information on “dog ear” watch this video:
