A tummy tuck is a popular cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that can help you reach your goal of a smoother, flatter stomach. When performed by a trained, experienced surgeon, you should achieve your desired results. However, you will see scars after a tummy tuck.
Abdominoplasty provides patients with a quick, sure way to eliminate the stubborn belly fat and excess skin that does not disappear through diet and exercise. A tummy tuck is the only way to achieve a smooth belly once skin and muscles have stretched past the point of no return. If you are wondering what your scars will look like after a tummy tuck, Dr. Layton could address your questions and concerns.
What are the Determining Factors for Scarring after a Tummy Tuck?
The type of tummy tuck is the primary factor that determines scarring. A full tummy tuck involves a long incision, from hip to hip, along the bikini line. Additional incisions, called T-shaped or anchor-shaped, may be made toward and around the navel.
A mini tummy tuck requires a six-to-twelve-inch incision – much shorter than a full tuck – placed just above the pubis. Picture a typical C-section incision. Therefore, less scarring is evident with a mini tummy tuck.
The shape of the patient’s body contributes to the scarring left behind. Not all tummy tuck scars look identical on the left and right sides of the abdomen. If the patient’s body is asymmetrical, uneven scarring may appear.
It is imperative to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience performing tummy tuck surgeries. Dr. Layton could make incisions that become unnoticeable when you wear a bikini. Before-and-after photos provide a detailed look at the tummy tuck results of our cosmetic plastic surgery practice. Viewing these images is vital to set realistic expectations for surgery scars.
You need to discuss your history of scarring with Dr. Layton before your tummy tuck procedure. Genetics helps determine how a person heals, including the degree to which they scar after surgery. If you get keloid scarring, the cosmetic surgery team can refer to dermal specialists for non-invasive, post-op treatment.
Skin tone plays a role in the appearance and disappearance of scarring. Patients with deeper skin tones generally have darker scars that take a little longer to lighten. Fair-skinned patients tend to see their scars fade more quickly.
Abdominoplasty scars can also be minimized by following a detailed set of wound care instructions provided to the patient by the plastic surgeon. Standard scar care routines include:
- Keeping the area clean to prevent infection
- Applying a topical scar cream
- Moisturizing
- Avoiding prolonged sun exposure
- Avoiding rough clothing that irritates the skin
How Long Does Tummy Tuck Scarring Last?
Scars are inevitable with all surgeries, no matter the technique, surgeon, or post-surgery routine. Like most people, you want to know how long your scars will last after a tummy tuck.
At three months, your wounds should heal and be scab-free, and at six months, your scars should begin to fade. Beyond a year, your scars should continue to fade and become almost invisible after five years.
Tummy Tuck: Expect Scars but Enjoy the Results
Nothing can prevent scarring – not even genetics. Fortunately, you can still achieve the tight, flat stomach you want, even with a little bit of scarring. Call now to arrange a consultation with Dr. Layton and learn more about your options.
