Tummy Tuck Scars
Loose, sagging skin is a common problem after losing a lot of weight. That’s when a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can help. This procedure removes the loose skin and allows surgeons to create a tighter, better contoured abdominal region. Dr. Vishnu Rumalla has helped countless people in the Keller, TX experienced improved self-image thanks to tummy tuck surgery.
Many patients wonder about incision locations and post-surgical scarring after a tummy tuck has been performed. The team at Tarrant Plastic Surgery covers some of the basics when it comes to scarring after tummy tuck below.
Tummy Tuck Incision Sites
During a traditional tummy tuck, incisions are typically made along the lower abdominal area. There is usually a circular incision around the belly button and a lateral incision along the lower abdomen that spans from hipbone to hipbone. Sometimes an additional vertical incision connecting the previous two incisions is made, creating an anchor shape.
Through these incisions, excess fat and tissue can be removed and underlying structures of the abdomen can be revised. The remaining skin is then pulled tighter for a slimmer and trimmer body contour.
Variations on the Traditional Tummy Tuck
In addition to the traditional tummy tuck, there are variations on the surgery designed to address the needs of patients who require different degrees of body contouring:
- The Mini Tummy Tuck - The mini tummy tuck has a smaller lateral incision from hipbone to hipbone. This lateral incision need not extend all the way across the lower abdomen, and sometimes may just be located along a central portion of the lower abdomen. The circular incision around the navel is typically not required.
- The Extended Tummy Tuck - In an extended tummy tuck, the lateral incision extends beyond the hipbones. They span around the sides of the hips to the back of the hipbones, allowing more loose skin to be removed from the lower abdomen and love handle areas.
How Prominent Are the Scars?
Tummy tuck scars are relatively prominent given their size and location on the abdominal area. They can be concealed by most shirts and tops, and patients can still wear many bathing suits and undergarments without self-consciousness.
Initial Consultation to Discuss Scarring Risk
Some patients may experience a high risk of poor scarring after surgery. In order to prevent excess scarring, our team will discuss any risks of keloid scars or other problems with past scars during the consultation process. We can modify the surgery as needed if a patient has a bad history of scarring in the past.
Proper Recovery Helps Minimize Scarring
Healing properly after surgery helps reduce the severity of scars both in the short term and the long run. That’s why we advise all patients to follow our post-op instructions to the letter. This prevents complications and reduces the severity of side effects that can impede the healing process.
Scars Will Fade Over Time
With proper aftercare, surgical scars will fade over time. It’s important that patients keep the scars away from sun exposure to allow the gradual fading to run its course.
Scar Revision After Tummy Tuck Surgery
If patients have serious scarring in the years after tummy tuck, there are options for scar revision to consider. Our team can suggest over-the-counter scar revision products that are helpful, and also recommend lifestyle changes that can help improve skin quality. If that proves ineffective or not a viable option, we can then look into professional scar revision techniques.
Contact Tarrant Plastic Surgery
If you would like more information about tummy tuck surgery and how it can benefit you, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic plastic surgeon. Tarrant Plastic Surgery has three locations. You can reach the office in Keller at (817) 741-6800, in Fort Worth at (817) 334-0030, and in Southlake at (817) 741-6801.
