Abdominoplasty or Tummy tuck surgery assists patients seeking to remove excess skin after weightloss or pregnancy. While the results can help you achieve a flatter midsection, it’s essential to understand that the procedure will leave a scar.
The extent and appearance of your abdominoplasty scar can vary depending on several factors, including the surgical techniques used, your recovery, genetics and healing process.
What Kind of Tummy Tuck Scar Should I Expect?
The type of scar you can expect after a tummy tuck depends on the specific procedure you undergo. There are two main types of tummy tucks: a full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and a mini tummy tuck.
In a full tummy tuck, the incision typically runs horizontally across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. This incision can extend from hip bone to hip bone, and its length can vary depending on the amount of excess skin and tissue that needs to be removed. The scar will fade during the months following surgery, but it will never completely disappear. It is designed to be concealed beneath underwear and swimwear.
A mini tummy tuck, on the other hand, involves a shorter incision above the pubic hairline. This procedure suits those with excess skin and fat concentrated in the lower abdominal region. The resulting scar will generally be shorter.
Scars After a Tummy Tuck
While the scars from a tummy tuck are permanent, they will fade over time and become less noticeable. Initially, the scar may appear raised, red, and slightly lumpy, but with proper care and healing, it will gradually flatten and become lighter in colour, blending in with the surrounding skin.
It’s important to note that everyone heals differently, and the appearance of your scar will depend on factors such as your age, skin type, and overall health. Some individuals may be more prone to developing raised or thickened scars, known as hypertrophic scars or keloids.
Abdominoplasty Surgery Before and After Images
How to Treat Tummy Tuck Scars
While you cannot eliminate the scar from a tummy tuck, there are several steps you can take to promote optimal recovery and healing:
Follow the post-operative instructions carefully detailed by the best cosmetic surgeon in Sydney, including wearing compression garments as directed and avoiding strenuous activities that could disrupt the healing process. Keep the incision area clean and dry, and apply any recommended scar treatments or ointments as directed by your surgeon.
UV radiation can darken sensitive skin, which can ultimately lead to your scar becoming more prominent over time. You can prevent this by using sunscreen to shield your scar when wearing a swimsuit with a low-cut design.
Use silicone sheets or gels as it acts as a protective shield, keeping the incision area hydrated and minimising tension in the skin. in some instances, further scar treatment may be recommended, such as laser, RF, microneedling or scar-softening injections.
Be patient and allow adequate time for healing, as it can take up to a year or more for the scar to fully mature and fade.
While a tummy tuck scar is unavoidable, it is a small price to pay for the significant improvements to your abdominal contour and overall body confidence. By understanding what to expect and taking the necessary steps to promote proper healing, you can minimise the appearance of your scar and enjoy the long-lasting benefits of a tummy tuck procedure.
Choose a Skilled Plastic Surgeon experienced in Abdominoplasty Surgery
One of the most important factors in determining the appearance of your tummy tuck scar is the skill and experience of your surgeon.
With extensive experience in performing plastic surgery, Dr Mark Kohout, has the expertise to minimise scarring and achieve the best possible aesthetic outcome. He will be able to strategically place the incision in a way that minimises its visibility and will use meticulous surgical techniques to ensure optimal healing and scar formation.
Further Reading about Abdominoplasty Surgery with Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Mark Kohout
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Abdominoplasty Tummy Tuck Procedure
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Abdominoplasty Risks and Safety: What You Need to Know Blog
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Different Types of Abdominoplasty – Tummy Tuck Surgeries Blog
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Compression Therapy After Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck Surgery Blog
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Diet After Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck: What to Eat when Blog
