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Tummy Tuck for Stretch Marks Without Vertical Incision?

asked 2 years ago by bubblegum in UK
Latest answer by Shahram Salemy, MD
Question viewed 1,199 times
Tags: belly button, stretch marks, weight loss, belly, loose, scar, skin

I am considering a Tummy Tuck. I have lost about 60 lbs and want to lose a further 30 lbs. I have many stretch marks that extend all the way up about 4-5 inches above my belly button.

I really don't want to get the Tummy Tuck that leaves a vertical scar so I was wondering what I can expect with regards to getting rid of the stretch marks and loose skin with a tummy tuck that leaves a horizontal low scar. Is it possible to get rid of all the stretch marks or at least the majority? Thanks.

8 answers to Tummy Tuck for Stretch Marks Without Vertical Incision?

+1

Tummy tucks and stretch marks

In general, it is impossible to remove all of the stretch marks with a tummy tuck, in particular if they extend above your belly button. But the ones up to the level of the belly button are usually removed during the procedure. It's hard to know exactly what you can expect in terms of results without examining you, but I think this is a reasonable guess. One other thought I have is that if you are planning on losing another 30 lbs., lose that first and then have the procedure-- this... more
Shahram Salemy, MD

Seattle Plastic Surgeon

www.drsalemy.com

+1

Tummy tuck for stretch marks WITHOUT vertical incision

Is it possible to get rid of all the stretch marks WITHOUT vertical incision? NO. Is it possible to get rid of the majority of the stretch marks WITHOUT vertical incision? ABSOLUTELY! Normally, we hide the scar within the confines of your favorite style of panties. The higher the incision, the more stretch marks will be taken off. In the vast majority of cases, we remove from the loose skin from pubic mound to the belly button and sometimes 1-3 finger breadths above WITHOUT needing to place... more
Peter A. Aldea, MD

Memphis Plastic Surgeon
+1

Yes

In general, most of the stretchmarks are between the umbilicus and pubis.  This is the area of skin and fat we remove, so most of the stretch marks are removed also.  It is also generally true that the remaining marks are pulled down and look better because they are under tension. sek
Scott E. Kasden, MD

Dallas Plastic Surgeon
+1

Getting rid of stretch marks with a tummy tuck

Most of the time, the only stretch marks removed are the ones below the belly button. In order to get rid of the ones above, a "reverse" abdominoplasty can be done at a separate time. This involves an incision underneath the breasts to pull the skin up. Any stretch marks in this area will also be removed. Also, if you're planning on losing 30 more pounds and the excess skin now isn't too bad wait until your weight is stable for 3 months after losing all of your weight. ... more
Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD

Baltimore Plastic Surgeon

www.BaltimorePlasticSurgery.com

+1

Stretch marks

This is a common question and situation that often arises. There are several factors that determine if a verticle scar would be needed. These include: 1) is there a c-section or other abdominal scar already? 2) how much extra skin do you have now? 3) how low do you want your scar? Only a consultation with a plastic surgeon will help you answer these and explain your options to you. An abdominoplasty is a great operation but needs to be tailored to the individual. Even if a verticle scar is... more
Dean Fardo, MD

Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
+1

Excision of stretch marks

If your priority is to get rid of stretch marks, then your surgeon needs to look at the location of the stretch marks and the quality and quantity of the remaining good skin to see how the excision and closure can be planned. Usually, the higher the stretch marks go, the higher the resulting scar needs to be so there is a trade-off between leaving some stretch marks behind and lowering the scar so it can be hidden.
Robin T.W. Yuan, MD

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon
+1

Tummy Tuck without Vertical Scar

It sounds as if you are good candidate for a full TT which does not involve a vertical incision. The stretch marks below your belly button should be removed and those above will probably be translocated below your new belly button. You should obtain a consultation from a Board-certified Plastic Surgeon.
John Whitt, MD

Louisville Plastic Surgeon
+1

Most Stretch Marks Will Be Removed With Tummy Tuck

Without seeing your photographs it is difficult to give you a definitive answer but, in most patients the majority of abdominal stretch marks would be removed with a full tummy tuck. All the skin and fat from the level of your navel down to the pubic area would be removed. Depending on how lax your skin is and how high up the stretch marks go, it is possible to excise skin above the navel as well, hence removing more.
Leslie H. Stevens, MD

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

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