A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a common cosmetic surgery procedure to flatten the stomach by removing excess skin and fat. It also involves tightening weak or separated stomach muscles to achieve a tighter, smoother abdominal profile.
One of the inevitable results of a full tummy tuck is scarring. While the scar from a tummy tuck will never fully disappear, there are things you can do before and after surgery to reduce the appearance of scars over time.
How Long Does Tummy Tuck Scarring Last?
A tummy tuck scar typically remains red or dark pink for 3 to 6 months after surgery as the incision heals. Over the next 6 to 12 months, scars will continue to mature and fade. Most patients find their scars noticeably improve and lighten after about 1-year post-op. However, a tummy tuck scar will never disappear completely.
The final appearance of a tummy tuck scar can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, including:
• Skin type – Darker skin is more prone to thick, raised scars called keloids
• Genetics – Some people are just more prone to prominent scarring
• Surgical technique – A carefully closed incision heals better with a less visible scar
• How well you care for the scar – Proper care can minimise scarring
While the scar may continue to refine and fade for up to 2 years after a tummy tuck, the majority of maturation and improvement happens in the first year post-surgery. Following proper scar care instructions can help ensure your best possible outcome.
Ways to Minimise Tummy Tuck Scarring
Choose an Experienced, Skilled Surgeon
Your cosmetic surgeon’s surgical skills and technique have an enormous impact on your final scar. When choosing a plastic surgeon, be sure to review before and after tummy tuck photos and select a surgeon known for creating neat, thin scars placed skilfully within natural skin folds and lines. An experienced tummy tuck will also spend time discussing how they will close and dress your incisions to promote the most minimal scarring possible.
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Follow Pre and Post-Op Scar Care Instructions
Be diligent about following your surgeon’s pre and post-operative instructions for incision care, which are designed to minimise scarring. This may involve instructions on sun exposure, massaging techniques, what products to use on scars at each stage of healing, and when to start using silicone-based scar treatments. Don’t take shortcuts – carefully follow your doctor’s protocol for the entire first year and beyond for optimum scar fading.
Stop Smoking and Stay Hydrated
Smoking severely restricts blood flow and oxygen to healing surgical incisions, leading to poor wound healing and wider, more visible scars. Stop smoking at least 2 months before an abdominoplasty surgery and refrain until scars are well healed. Staying properly hydrated with water is also vital to keep your skin supple and support healing.
Consider Laser Scar Treatments
In-office laser scar revision treatments can further reduce the thickness, colour, and visibility of tummy tuck scars about 6 months after surgery after they have substantially healed and matured. Multiple laser sessions may be needed for significant improvement. Laser treatment can be combined with the use of liquid silicone sheets, creams, and gels for optimal scar fading.
In a Nutshell
A tummy tuck scar is unavoidable but will continue to refine and fade for 1–2 years after your procedure as your body works to repair the incision site. While the scar may remain visible, following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and proper scar care can promote the most minimal scarring possible over time. You can also consider laser scar treatments later on for scar softening and reduction.
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