Understanding Liposuction Scars
Liposuction is a minor surgical procedure used to contour and smooth away areas of unwanted, stubborn fat. While liposuction can do wonders for the thighs, abdomen, back, neck, and arms, it’s important for patients to understand that as a surgical procedure, liposuction requires incisions that can lead to scarring.
At Tarrant Plastic Surgery, Dr. Vishnu Rumalla uses small, discreet incisions to help minimize the appearance of liposuction scars for his patients from Fort Worth, TX, and surrounding areas. Even though scars are placed in such a way to limit their visibility, it helps to be aware of what to expect when it comes to scarring after liposuction.
Will I Scar After Liposuction?
Scarring is common after liposuction. That said, incisions are generally small. We take great care at our Fort Worth practice to place incisions so that they are hidden by the natural folds of the skin or beneath swimwear and clothing.
As a result, when scarring does occur, it is often minor and not immediately visible. The barely visible scars are a key benefit of liposuction, allowing patients to experience slimmer thighs, a flatter abdomen, or an overall improved silhouette without unsightly scars.
Scarring Can Vary from Patient to Patient
Although scarring is common and may be expected, the extent of scarring, as well as the appearance, does vary by patient. One of the most significant factors in determining whether someone will scar and what their scars may look like is their own personal history of scarring.
Those who are prone to scarring should expect to see more visible scars after liposuction, while those who tend not to scar much will likely see their scars significantly fade. This can be discussed as part of the consultation process.
What Do Liposuction Scars Look Like?
The incisions made during liposuction are typically small, about half an inch or smaller. As a result, scars also tend to be minuscule, helping to make them less noticeable.
Some people develop scars after liposuction that start off as pink and eventually fade to white. Others may develop scars that are slightly darker than their skin.
Although less common, keloid scars, which are dark, raised scars, may occur after liposuction, especially in those who have a history of keloid scarring.
Tips to Help Minimize Scars
The appearance of liposuction scars will generally fade over time, but there are things patients can do that may help reduce the appearance of scars. This includes:
- Cover Incisions When Outside: Fresh scar tissue can darken when exposed to the sun or tanning beds. Keep your incisions covered as they heal to protect your healing skin.
- Wear Sunscreen: After your incisions have healed, wear sunscreen to help keep your scars from darkening.
- Laser Therapy: Laser therapy can help reduce the appearance of scars, including keloid scars, by stimulating healthy cell growth at the site of scarring.
- Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion: Chemical peels and microdermabrasion can reduce the appearance of some liposuction scars by gently removing the outermost layer of the skin to reveal a smoother layer of skin beneath.
Schedule a Consultation
The tradeoff to some scarring after liposuction is well worth the results of a more streamlined figure. If you would like more information about liposuction or to find out if it is right for you, please call our practice in Fort Worth at (817) 334-0030 to schedule a consultation online.