Tummy tuck is an extremely popular procedure for good reason. It offers instant results that are noticeable and is used to tighten muscles that have become loose or split as a result of pregnancy. This procedure is also used to remove fat and excess skin from the abdomen after significant weight loss. Inevitably, for patients considering a tummy tuck procedure, it is vital to understand what to expect during the healing period and to prepare accordingly. Besides having questions about how their new figures will look and when they can return to regular activities again, many patients also wonder how long it will take for their scars to heal and fade and how visible they may be after some time.
To answer the same, we have drafted this blog and taken references from an expert plastic surgeon Dr. Medha Bhave, who is known for offering the best tummy tuck surgery in Mumbai. To make this blog useful for readers, we will be discussing tummy tuck surgery in detail and when and how the scars from tummy tuck surgery will heal. Read on for a closer look.
Understanding a Tummy Tuck
Tummy tuck surgery, also called abdominoplasty, tightens up loose abdominal muscles and enhances the overall shape of the abdominal region. The procedure also removes abdominal stretch marks and helps individuals get rid of extra fat. A tummy tuck surgery is always personalized based on the unique anatomy and goals of the patient.
Where are the Incisions Located During a Tummy Tuck Surgery?
During a tummy tuck surgery, the expert plastic surgeon places incisions strategically within the natural lines and contours of the body. This is done to conceal them beneath the clothing and swimsuits as fully as possible.
Typically, the incisions for a tummy tuck are made extremely low on the abdomen, just above the pubic area, and they run horizontally between the hips. Individuals who have excessive skin that needs to be removed require incisions that extend all the way from hip to hip. However, individuals with moderate concerns require short incisions. In any scenario, the tummy tuck incision enables the surgeon to remove extra skin, suction out stubborn fat, and achieve a smoother, slimmer, more attractive stomach.
To learn more about tummy tuck incisions or to avail the benefits of the procedure, one can schedule a consultation with Dr. Medha Bhave, the best female plastic surgeon in Mumbai, at Laser Cosmesis.
How is Scarring After a Tummy Tuck Surgery?
After a tummy tuck surgery, the incisions are red and thin. The skin near the incisions may also develop ridges and pleats, and the incisions themselves may swell or become inflammatory. For most individuals, the inflammation lessens within a week. The complete healing time varies and depends on the surgical technique used, the skin type of the individual, and how well the surgeon’s instructions have been followed.
Tummy tuck scars usually flatten after the first few months, but they will still be dark with reddish pigment since the body's natural healing process boosts the blood flow to the wound. Scars typically fade six months after a tummy tuck surgery and may be soft brown or pinkish. One can expect at least eight to twelve months for tummy tuck scars to fully heal and fade.
How Can One Reduce the Severity of Tummy Tuck Scars?
After a tummy tuck surgery, the surgeon sends every patient home with detailed aftercare instructions. The instructions include how to achieve the best results for effective healing of incisions. Patients who want healthy incisions must follow the set of instructions stated below:
- Avoid tanning or sun exposure, as the UV rays cause the scars to darken.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing to prevent unnecessary inflammation or redness.
- Live a healthy lifestyle and eat a well-balanced diet with a lot of protein.
- Avoid smoking.
- Apply 100% Vitamin E oil to the scars for quicker healing.
- Use sunscreen when the scars are exposed to sunlight.
What Can Be Done If the Scars Are Slow to Heal?
Living with tummy tuck scars can be extremely frustrating. Patients must watch out for symptoms such as excessive bleeding from the incisions, discharge with a bad smell, a fever that does not get reduced with medications, swelling, bruising, etc. If these symptoms occur, one must seek medical attention immediately. If concerns about scarring are preventing one from achieving a desired figure, one must consult a renowned plastic surgeon about what to expect in their unique circumstances.
Conclusion
As discussed, the healing process for tummy tuck scars varies from person to person. This depends on factors such as the individual’s overall health, the extent of the procedure, and how well the patient has followed post-operative instructions. So, if one is frustrated with their loose skin and stubborn fat that won’t seem to budge, they may be an ideal candidate for tummy tuck surgery. Despite some scarring, the majority of patients agree that they achieve a new overall look, which is worth it.
To learn more about how one can achieve the ideal figure with minimal scarring, one can schedule a consultation with Dr. Medha Bhave, a renowned plastic surgeon in Mumbai, at Laser Cosmesis. The expert surgeon has more than 35 years of overall experience and has been providing effective plastic and cosmetic surgeries since 1996. The surgeon offers comprehensive care and helps individuals achieve the desired outcomes. To learn more, one can pay a visit to Laser Cosmesis today!
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