Will My Tummy Tuck Scar Fade Away On Its Own?
&srotate=0)
No one likes the idea of having a visible scar after surgery, but in some cases, it is unavoidable. When it comes to tummy tuck specifically, the scar is usually able to be concealed underneath clothing and swimsuits almost completely. Furthermore, most patients consider the stunning transformation that can be achieved with tummy tuck surgery to far outweigh the burden of having a scar. However, it is still important to have realistic expectations about what kind of tummy tuck scar you will have and how it may fade over time.
Sought-after plastic surgeon Dr. Samuel Salcedo and the caring team at The Plastics Doc understand the desire to keep visible scarring to a minimum and are committed to helping patients achieve the most stunning outcome possible with the least amount of scarring. Learn more about what to expect with tummy tuck surgery in Corona, CA, including how your scar may look and what you can do to help it heal and fade appropriately.
How does a tummy tuck work?
To better understand what kind of scar you may have after tummy tuck surgery, it is important to know a little bit about how the procedure actually works. During tummy tuck in Beverly Hills, which is performed as an outpatient procedure using general anesthesia and typically takes about 2 – 3 hours to complete, Dr. Salcedo will make a precise incision on the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. The length and position of the incision will vary somewhat, depending on the extent of the procedure, the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed, and other anatomical factors. In a large number of cases, liposuction is combined with tummy tuck to remove stubborn pockets of abdominal fat and create an even smoother, slimmer physique. Once the loose, extra skin has been removed, the remaining skin will be pulled taut and the incisions closed with sutures.
What does a tummy tuck scar look like?
Tummy tuck incision scars can vary in length and position based on the type and extent of the procedure. For example, patients with only a mild amount of extra skin can often benefit from a mini tummy tuck, which involves a shorter incision than traditional abdominoplasty. An extended tummy tuck, on the other hand, can help to remove a large amount of excess skin and typically requires an incision running from hip to hip. In either case, Dr. Salcedo takes great care to place tummy tuck incisions where they can be hidden underneath clothing and within the natural contours of the body as completely as possible.
Do tummy tuck scars go away?
Like all surgical scars, tummy tuck scars will never go away completely. However, with a skillful surgical technique and proper aftercare, tummy tuck scars will heal and fade to dramatically reduce their visibility.
How long do tummy tuck scars take to fade?
The incision after a tummy tuck typically takes about 1 – 2 weeks to close and heal, during which time patients should practice appropriate wound care, keep the incision clean, and avoid submerging the incision. After this, patients will begin to notice their scar fading from red to pink and ultimately to a white or skin-colored tone. This process can take up to 6 –12 months, and the use of topical ointments and other products recommended by Dr. Salcedo can greatly improve the results. To further optimize the tummy tuck scar healing and fading process, patients should:
- Keep the incision clean and dressed
- Avoid submerging the incision until completely closed/healed
- Avoid pulling the sutures/incision while healing
- Avoid exposing the scar to direct sunlight
- Massage the scar, if recommended
- Use topical agents, supplements, and other products as recommended
- Attend all follow-up appointments
In addition, it is important to be patient as your scar heals and fades. Once a tummy tuck scar has fully faded, most patients are thrilled with their new body and are not concerned with their scar. If you are unsatisfied with your tummy tuck scar, don’t hesitate to talk to Dr. Salcedo about the possibility of scar revision.
A single scar may be well worth the stunning transformation you can achieve with tummy tuck surgery in Corona, CA
It is completely understandable for patients to have concerns about scarring after cosmetic surgery. While some amount of scarring is unavoidable in most cases, scars can often be covered up or concealed, even while wearing a swimsuit! To learn more about the exciting possibilities of tummy tuck surgery in the Anaheim Hills area, call The Plastics Doc to schedule your one-on-one consultation with acclaimed plastic surgeon Dr. Samuel Salcedo today!