Scars and Suture Scars Following Tummy Tuck Surgery
We often receive inquiries from patients and prospective tummy tuck surgery candidates regarding the appearance of scars after the procedure and how to minimize them. It is important to note that tummy tuck surgery involves making an incision on the abdomen, which will result in a scar. However, there are steps you can take during the healing process to promote optimal incision healing and minimize scarring.
Where is the Suture Mark Located in Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery is a personalized procedure tailored to the patient’s needs. The surgeon will develop the most suitable surgical plan, which may include a mini tummy tuck, full tummy tuck, 270-degree tummy tuck, or 360-degree tummy tuck.
During a tummy tuck surgery, the incisions are strategically placed just above the pubic area. A skilled plastic surgeon plans the suture marks to ensure they are concealed under clothing, such as underwear, swimwear, and bikinis.
Sometimes, before an operation, patients may be asked to bring their preferred swimsuit or underwear so that the pre-operative drawings can be prepared accordingly.
The scar resulting from a full tummy tuck surgery is determined by the amount of sagging in the abdomen and fat in the waist area. In some cases, a 270-degree tummy tuck may be recommended, particularly if the patient has sagging and fat in the waist area. If the sagging and adiposity extend to the back of the waist, a 360-degree tummy tuck surgery may be necessary.
Are Scars from Stitches Visible After a Tummy Tuck Surgery?
After undergoing a tummy tuck surgery, the suture scars may become faint but they will never completely disappear. It is important to take necessary precautions to ensure that the stitch marks heal properly and smoothly.
The healing process of your stitches and scars after a tummy tuck surgery depends on several factors.
- Aesthetic doctor's experience and expertise in tummy tuck
- The structure and color of the patient's skin
- Patient compliance with post-operative instructions
The three aforementioned reasons are crucial. It is essential to select the appropriate doctor for a tummy tuck procedure and follow postoperative care guidelines. Additionally, it is important to consider care recommendations that are suitable for your skin type.
How to Care for Stitches and Wounds After Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Following tummy tuck surgery, it is important to adhere to certain recommendations to promote proper healing and minimize scarring. Your doctor should provide detailed instructions on these recommendations.
- Cease smoking at least one month prior to undergoing a tummy tuck surgery. Refrain from smoking after the surgery or for a minimum of 1-2 months.
- Remember that each patient's healing process is unique. Avoid comparing yourself to other patients.
- Consider the impact of genetics on the healing process and suture scars, as these may differ between patients with white and dark skin.
- Wear your compression garment consistently following your surgery.
- Do not neglect wound dressings.
- Avoid movements that strain your abdomen and stitches.
- Use scar creams recommended by your doctor, such as silicone or cortisone creams.
Recovery Time for Scars After Tummy Tuck Surgery
It may take up to one year for scars to improve after tummy tuck surgery. During this process, stitch marks may appear red and raised, but will gradually turn pink, then light purple, and finally white by the end of the first year.
The process described above may differ for each patient, depending on factors such as skin type, postoperative complications, the surgical technique used by the doctor, and the wound care applied after surgery.
