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Athleo Louis Cambre, MD answers: Will laser treatment help minimize tummy tuck scar?

I'm thinking of having a Tummy Tuck but am worried about the possible scar from the procedure. Can laser treatments be used to minimize the scar? If so, should it be ideally done at time of procedure or after recovery?


Athleo Louis Cambre, MD
12 months ago

Almost every procedure in Plastic Surgery involves trading a scar for the ultimate result. For most patients, if the scar can be minimized and placed in an inconspicuous location, the trade-off is very worthwhile.

Abdominoplasty or Tummy Tuck scars are placed as low as possible above the pelvic brim, where they are typically hidden by undergarments and bikini bottoms. However, occasionally there may be some visibility of the scars, and they may stretch, thicken, or widen. There are several treatment options for the scars after Abdominoplasty, depending on the presentation. One option for the temporary redness of scars (caused by capillary growth across the scar) may involve the use of a laser which targets the hemoglobin in the red blood cells, causing coagulation of the capillaries and resolution of the redness of the scars. Other options may include steroid tape or injections, silicone tape, or surgical revision of the scar.

Your surgeon will monitor the progress of your scar during the healing process, and will advise you if any further treatment is necessary.

Don't let the scar deter you from having your Tummy Tuck! For most patients, even the worst scar is better than the excess skin and fat that is removed by the Abdominoplasty.

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