A tummy tuck is the gold standard for sculpting the midsection and improving the body contour. However, patients sometimes question whether the extensive incision required for a tummy tuck is worth the results they can achieve. This blog explains what you can expect from your tummy tuck scars and why most patients consider them a small price to pay for the long-lasting enhancements they enjoy.
4 Min Read:
Where Are Tummy Tuck Incisions Located?
When Dr. Stevens performs a traditional tummy tuck, he makes an incision across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area that spans from one hipbone to the other. This incision affords access to the underlying muscles that require correction to produce the best results. Dr. Stevens also removes excess skin via this incision to create a smoother, flatter midsection.
He creates a second circular incision around the navel to gain access to the muscles above the belly button and allow for upper abdominal skin tightening. This incision is usually safely enclosed within the folds of the navel, where the scarring is nearly invisible. The incision across the lower abdomen is typically hidden under swimsuits and underwear.
When Dr. Stevens performs a mini tummy tuck (partial abdominoplasty), the incision across the lower abdomen is usually shorter than with a full tummy tuck. However, a partial abdominoplasty is recommended only for patients with minimal skin laxity who require most of the correction in the lower abdomen.
A Healing Timeline for Tummy Tuck Scars
Tummy tuck incisions take some time to heal, and patients continue to see improvements in their scars for up to one year or longer. Your tummy tuck recovery will generally follow these guidelines:
Immediately After Tummy Tuck Surgery
Directly following your tummy tuck, your incisions will be covered in dressings, and you will be given a compression garment to wear over the surgical area. Dr. Stevens may place surgical drains in the incision to prevent fluid buildup for the first few days. You won’t be able to see your incisions at first, but they will likely be raised and red, and you may have some swelling and bruising near them.
During the First Three Months
You will see many changes to your tummy tuck incisions during the first three months. Collagen will begin forming at the incision site, and blood flow will increase to support the healing process. You may see your scar darken during this time due to increased blood flow, but rest assured, the color will continue to change and fade, making it less noticeable. You may also notice the scar begin to flatten as swelling and inflammation subside.
Six Months After Surgery and Beyond
By six months after your tummy tuck surgery, your scar may still look a bit dark. However, this is the time frame when scars start to fade and blend into your skin tone. You will probably notice the scar slowly turning light pink or brown as the healing process continues. By the end of the first year, your scar should significantly fade, making it much less noticeable to others.
How to Care for Your Incisions to Reduce Visible Scarring
Throughout your tummy tuck recovery, Dr. Stevens and his team will provide instructions on caring for your incision to minimize the visibility of your scar.
Steps might include:
- Avoiding any tension in the surgical area
- Wearing compression garments as instructed
- Supporting the healing process with silicone gel or strips
- Gently massaging to soften the scar
- Focusing on hydrating and eating a healthy diet
- Avoiding direct sun exposure and tanning booths
- Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight
While you can support the healing process, you can’t rush it. Scars heal in their own time, so patience during your tummy tuck recovery is critical.
Ready to Learn More About Tummy Tucks in Beverly Hills, CA?
A tummy tuck may involve a lengthy scar, but once it heals, the body contouring benefits will far outweigh the visible scar. Dr. Leslie Stevens is an experienced, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who utilizes advanced techniques to minimize scars as much as possible. To learn more about tummy tucks in Beverly Hills, call our office at (310) 556-1003 or complete our online contact form to schedule your consultation with Dr. Stevens.