How to Manage Tummy Tuck Scars at Home

A tummy tuck can work wonders for a person's figure and self-confidence, but it's important for patients considering tummy tuck surgery to understand what kind of scars they can expect as a result of the procedure. While the precise length and location of tummy tuck scars will vary from person to person, some level of scarring is unavoidable. Even so, there are helpful in-office treatments, over-the-counter and prescription products, and at-home routines that can encourage the proper healing and fading of tummy tuck scars to give patients a smoother, clearer look they can feel proud of.

At Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA, our distinguished team of board-certified plastic surgeons takes great care to minimize visible tummy tuck scarring using the most advanced surgical techniques available today and helps patients further improve the appearance of their scars during their recovery period. In this blog, we'll explore some of the most effective solutions for caring for tummy tuck incisions and addressing the resulting scars.

Where are tummy tuck incisions located?

Generally speaking, tummy tuck incisions are made on the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. The length of a patient's tummy tuck incision will depend primarily on how much excess skin needs to be removed, whether the abdominal muscles need to be repaired (in the case of diastasis recti), and other specific details of the procedure. In an extended tummy tuck, for example, the incision may run from hip to hip, while a mini tummy tuck incision may only be a few inches long.

Are tummy tuck scars visible in a swimsuit?

The surgeons at Austin-Weston understand the importance of minimizing visible scarring after surgery and place tummy tuck incisions in areas where they can be concealed beneath underwear, swimsuits, and clothing as completely as possible. However, because each patient's anatomy is unique (and clothing styles can vary greatly), some scarring may be visible in certain patients.

How can I help my tummy tuck scars fade?

Every person's skin heals differently, with some patients being naturally more likely to develop darker or raised scars compared with other patients. However, there are things you can do at home to help your scars heal and fade as much as possible. These include:

• Follow all of your tummy tuck aftercare guidelines closely
• Use topical products and oral supplements as recommended
• Do not expose incision/scar to direct sunlight
• Protect incision/scar with sunscreen
• Clean incision as directed
• Keep scar moisturized
• Do not place excess pressure or tension on healing incision
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat a balanced diet

When patients choose a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to perform their tummy tuck surgery and use the tips and tricks above, tummy tuck scarring can be kept to a minimum. Should a patient not be fully satisfied with the appearance of their tummy tuck scars after 1 – 2 years, a minimally invasive in-office skin rejuvenation treatment – like microneedling or laser skin resurfacing – can often be effective at further smoothing and lightening scars.

With barely-there scars, a Northern Virginia tummy tuck can be your best-kept secret

Is the thought of visible scarring holding you back from achieving your ideal figure with tummy tuck surgery? Don't let it! With strategic incision placement and an expert technique, the award-winning board-certified plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery can transform your physique – with minimal visible scarring – and leave you loving your look more than ever before. To learn more about what to expect after a tummy tuck in Reston, VA, call to schedule your private consultation at Austin-Weston today.