Tummy Tuck Scars

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. This is often done with the objective of reducing the appearance of a protruding abdomen, the result being a smooth and flattened abdomen that can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence.

Tummy tuck surgery involves the doctor making a long incision just above the pubic area that runs from hipbone to hipbone. A second incision is made around the navel to release the bellybutton from the surrounding tissue. The skin is then separated form the abdominal wall up to the ribs and then lifted to reveal the vertical muscles in the abdomen. These exposed muscles are pulled close together and stitched sewn into their new position using stitches in order to tighten them. This will help to narrow the waistline and firm the abdominal wall. The skin flap is then stretched back in place and the extra unwanted skin is cut away. After cutting a new hole for the bellybutton, it is then stitched in place.

The consequence of this surgery is the creation of a permanent scar, which depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip. Typically, there will be another scar around the umbilical (belly button). For those undergoing a mini tummy tuck, there will be only be a small incision (generally 4-6 inches) in the lower abdomen area, so scarring will be significantly minimized to that area.

Although the scars are permanent, the location of the scar (where incision was made) is usually below the swimsuit line so they are not normally in view. Your scar after tummy tuck operation may actually worsen during the first three to six months as it heals, but this is normal. Many scars will heal discretely where it becomes difficult to find with time. It normally takes 9 months to a year before scars flatten out and fade in color - this should be the normal result if an experienced surgeon performed the operation. However, it is important to remember that this will not always be the case as each individual has their own unique skin qualities and healing abilities.

Regardless, you are more likely to look (and feel) better with a flatter abdomen and scars than you are with a bulging belly.