Can a Tummy Tuck Minimize Existing Scars?

The Plastic Surgery Channel Surgeon Answers: (3)

1. Dr. Jacobs responded:

   Hi Darlene

   Scars of the abdomen, as well as stretch marks, are sometimes improved or eliminated with a tummy tuck — and sometimes not.  First, you should ask yourself if it is the scars themselves that bother you, if there is excess or mal-distributed fat or if there is lax or even over-hanging skin.  If you are slender and don't have much skin laxity, then perhaps only treatment of the scars may be indicated. 

   The scars themselves may be improved/eliminated with a tummy tuck — but only if they are located low on the abdomen.  If they are located at or above the belly button, then probably a tummy tuck will not be helpful.  The scars themselves may actually be a prohibition against a tummy tuck because they interfere with the blood supply to the skin of the abdomen and could negatively influence the eventual outcome of the tummy tuck itself.  And if the tummy tuck were able to remove the scars from the lower abdomen, please remember that a tummy tuck will undoubtedly result in a low-lying abdominal scar as well — the length of which is determined by the amount of skin laxity you have.  So realize that the operation is a trade-off — tighter skin, better profile/contours and perhaps elimination of lower abdominal scars for a very low scar which can be hidden by underclothes or a bathing suit.  Only a consultation and hands-on physical exam by a plastic surgeon can tell you whether you are a candidate for this surgery.

   Finally, smoking is extremely detrimental to any surgery — and especially in tummy tucks.  You should consider stopping completely (and that means no nicotine gum or patches) at least two weeks prior to surgery and continuing for at least two weeks after surgery.  If you cheat, you are only harming yourself.  And be prepared for your surgeon to request a blood test for nicotine levels just prior to your operation.

   Bottom line:  best way to answer your question is during a face to face consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.

   Best of luck to you!

   Elliot W. Jacobs, MD, FACS

   New York City

    

    

   Posted on February 15th, 2010

2. Dr. Zwiebel responded:

   Hello Darlene -

   While a tummy tuck will remove existing scars and stretch marks and loose skin below the navel,  the trade off is another scar.   The scar is in a more inconspicuous location, usually just  above the pubic area and can go from hip to hip.   You will need to consult with a Plastic Surgeon to determine if you have enough skin to remove.  Another option for removing scars is Laser Treatments.  This is much less invasive, less downtime and can significantly reduce the appearance and texture of the scars.   Before considering any type of surgery, you must quit smoking for at least two weeks before and two weeks following your procedure.  Your risk of complications and healing problems increases considerably, especially with a Tummy Tuck.  My recommendation would be to look into Laser Treatments first.

    

   Good luck,

   Paul Zwiebel, M.D.   

   Posted on February 16th, 2010

3. Dr. Fournier responded:

   Sacrs below the navel can be removed, photos are needed to evaluate.Please avoid smoking for one month before and after surgery to avoid complications such as hematoma,separation of the wounds, tissue without circulation (necrosis) and delayed healing.

   Posted on March 9th, 2010

Leave a Comment