What Will My Tummy Tuck Scars Look Like?
When it comes to any cosmetic surgery, one of the first questions many patients have is what kind of scarring they can expect. Thanks to modern medicine and technology, scarring is much less of a concern than it once was. Still, it is important that patients have realistic expectations for their outcome and understand that, in many cases, a visible scar is an unavoidable part of a procedure. For tummy tuck patients specifically, understanding where their scar will be, how it will look, and how they can encourage scar healing and fading are essential. At Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery, Dallas, TX, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe shares in patients’ desires to keep scarring to a minimum and takes great care to conceal his incisions as much as possible. Here, you’ll find answers to some of the most popular tummy tuck FAQs, including how your tummy tuck scar may look.
How does a tummy tuck work?
Tummy tuck surgery is a highly transformative procedure, offering patients the opportunity to dramatically reduce excess skin, wrinkles, stubborn fat, and other unwanted concerns in the midsection that may be the result of aging, pregnancy, weight loss, or another factor. During the procedure, an incision is made on the lower abdomen, usually just above the pubic region. Through this incision, Dr. Dauwe is able to trim away loose skin, tighten and repair loose or separated abdominal muscles, remove pockets of resistant fat via liposuction, and more to create a smoother, slimmer new physique.
Is a tummy tuck scar visible?
Yes, patients considering tummy tuck surgery should understand that a visible scar is unavoidable. However, Dr. Dauwe utilizes the thinnest possible incisions adequate for tummy tuck surgery and places the tummy tuck incision in an area where it can be concealed, in most cases, beneath clothing. In many cases, a tummy tuck incision can even be hidden beneath swimsuits and undergarments, depending on the style.
How long is a tummy tuck scar?
The length and precise location of a tummy tuck scar will vary from patient to patient based on how much excess skin needs to be removed, their unique anatomy, and the type of tummy tuck being performed. Most often, Dr. Dauwe uses one of the following tummy tuck approaches:
- Traditional tummy tuck
- Extended tummy tuck
- Mini tummy tuck
- Drainless tummy tuck
How can I help my tummy tuck scar fade?
During your pre- and postoperative appointments, Dr. Dauwe will go over detailed incision and scar care instructions with you that can help encourage your tummy tuck scar to heal and fade as much as possible. These may include avoiding tension on your healing incision, keeping the incision clean and dry, using certain supplements and/or topical products as directed, and sticking to a healthy diet and lifestyle overall.
Tired of extra skin weighing you down? Consider a tummy tuck in Dallas, TX, for a slim, sexy new look
If you are frustrated by loose stomach skin and stubborn belly fat that will not respond to diet and exercise, a tummy tuck may be the body contouring solution you’ve been searching for. Start your journey toward getting the figure you’ve been dreaming of by scheduling your Dallas, TX, tummy tuck consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery today.