Tummy tuck surgery involves making an incision across the lower abdomen, from hipbone to hipbone, and removing excess skin and fat to improve the abdominal contour. When performing tummy tuck in Chicago, Dr. Gregory Dumanian is careful to place this incision as low as possible (right above the pubic hairline) to hide easily under a bathing suit or underwear.
However, all tummy tuck patients will have some amount of scarring from the incision. Full tummy tuck incisions usually extend across the width of the belt or bikini line. Mini tummy tuck scars are typically shorter. For most people, scars appear worse in the weeks and months following surgery, and then begin to improve after six months to a year.
Tummy tuck scars are inevitable, but there are a few things you can do to minimize scarring:
Avoid Sun Exposure
Exposing your tummy tuck scar to the sun can make it darker and raised. Keep your incision out of the sun for at least six months after surgery. Cover it with clothing or sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more (or, stay safely in the shade!).
Quit Smoking
Smoking after tummy tuck surgery can lead to several complications, including making scars more pronounced. It can also impair the overall healing process.
Avoid Excessive Force or Motion As You Heal
It’s important to refrain from any strenuous activity that could affect your healing or disrupt your scarring.
Follow Dr. Dumanian’s Instructions
Dr. Dumanian will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the incision site, medications to take to aid healing and prevent infection and what to look for in case a complication arises. He may also recommend the use of a product to minimize the appearance of tummy tuck scarring. While many creams and lotions claim to fade and flatten scars, it’s best to take the suggestions of a plastic surgeon.
If you are considering tummy tuck but are concerned about scarring, talk to Dr. Dumanian during your pre-operative consultation. He will be able to give you more information about scarring after he has met with you and learned more about your skin type.
Contact Our Office Today
For more information about tummy tuck scarring, please call our office at 312-695-6022 or send us an email.