Should I Be Concerned About Tummy Tuck Scarring?

Posted on 13 Mar 2024

Tummy Tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular procedure to eliminate loose, excess abdominal fat and stretch marks. During this procedure, incisions are required to achieve optimal results. Because of this, a major concern is whether or not scarring should be a consideration for patients. Read on to learn more about the tummy tuck procedure, tummy tuck gallery, tummy tuck scars, and what to expect regarding tummy tuck results.

What is A Tummy Tuck?

Both men and women alike, who have lost a significant amount of weight often find themselves with loose, excess skin that no amount of dieting and exercise will ever come close to eliminating. This stubborn skin issue also holds true for women who have had one or more children and those who have had a Caesarean section. The end goal of a tummy tuck is to have a slimmer waist, tighter abs, and an overall improvement in the shape of the body. It also helps with the self-esteem that may be lacking.

How Is A Tummy Tuck Performed?

In most tummy tuck procedures, a horizontal incision is made just above the pubic hairline. The amount of excess loose skin to be removed will dictate the length of the incision. The skin is dissected, and the excess fat is removed. The abdominal muscles are tightened, and the belly button will be repositioned. If the excess skin extends to the back, then the incision can be increased to the back as well.

Traditional/Full Tummy Tuck

During a traditional or full tummy tuck, an incision will be created horizontally between the hip bones. This incision is required to achieve tightening of the abs for a flat, toned stomach. Liposuction is also often performed to remove stubborn fat deposits and enhance the overall hourglass figure result. Excess skin is removed to further achieve optimal results.

Modified Tummy Tuck

A modified tummy tuck is performed similarly to a traditional tummy tuck, with modifications or additions to meet a patient’s unique aesthetic goals. These modifications or additions can be discussed during your consultation appointment.

The two most common forms of modified tummy tucks include the fleur de lis tummy tuck and body lift.

Fleur de lis

A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is a specialized technique often used following significant weight loss to eliminate excess skin. This technique involves creating two incisions: one horizontally across the lower abdomen and another vertically along the midline. These incisions allow the surgeon access to the abdominal muscles and allow for the removal of a more substantial amount of excess skin for a slimmer waistline.

Body Lift

A body lift, or circumferential tummy tuck, is another surgical technique often performed following weight loss to shape and tone the lower body. A body lift can address excess skin and stubborn fat pockets in the abdominal area, buttocks, and thighs for a slimmer, more proportionate body shape.

Mini Tummy Tuck 

The mini tummy tuck procedure focuses on the region around the belly button. Incisions are smaller. However, the results of this procedure are not as dramatic as those of a standard tummy tuck. Only a small percentage of patients are ideal candidates for a mini tummy tuck; these individuals will have issues around the belly button and are otherwise happy with the appearance of their abdomen.

What Can I Expect Regarding Tummy Tuck Scarring?

Because the tummy tuck procedure involves the creation of incisions, there will be some degree of scarring following surgery. This often appears as a horizontal scar between the hip bones. However, the degree of scarring will depend on the type of tummy tuck, your anatomy, the desired results, the healing process, and the skill of the surgeon. Our team of board-certified surgeons have ample experience performing abdominoplasties and take care to place incisions in inconspicuous areas. Most incisions are placed quite well, and, over time, are barely noticeable. Over time, visible scars fade, and there are also procedures and topical treatments used to lighten or fade scars, which could also be considered.

Tips for Proper Tummy Tuck Scar Healing

Immediately following your procedure, your incisions will be red and some minor swelling may be present. As the incision heals, it will initially become darker and then begin to fade. Prior to your procedure, it is important to let your surgeon know if you have a history of keloid scars, raised scars, hypertrophic scars, scarring complications, or slow wound healing.

For optimal outcomes, be sure to follow the postoperative care instructions provided to you by our team. These may include:

• Keeping your incision clean.
• Keeping the incision moist with petroleum jelly or similar products.
• Changing bandages regularly.
• Apply medical-grade scar cream to promote healing.

If you are interested in learning more about tummy tuck scar care and tips to reduce scarring, do not hesitate to speak with your plastic surgeon.The Neaman Plastic Surgery Gallery

Be sure to take a look at the Neaman Plastic Surgery gallery for a detailed look at the before and after results when it comes to tummy tuck scarring. The gallery utilizes a zoom feature where you can see what the scarring looks like on various tummy tuck cases.

Contact Neaman Plastic Surgery Today

As with any surgery, selecting a well-trained, experienced surgeon is your first step toward a successful tummy tuck surgery in Salem, Eugene, or Portland, OR. Dr. Keith Neaman and our team of professionals will gladly consult with you and give you a clear picture of what to expect from your tummy tuck surgery. Allow us to consult with you about your future surgical options privately; give us a call at 844-338-5445 or fill out our online form.