What Can Be Done to Correct a High Tummy Tuck Scar?

I have a tummy tuck scar thats too high. The most important factor in getting a tummy tuck for me was to have it hidden well below my bikini line. I was told the scar could be undesirable but the scar will be hidden under even a small bikini. This is why I decided to go through the surgery. I had the surgery about 2 yrs ago, the skin is tight & I'm wondering if there is a procedure that can be done so it can be lowered. The scar is 3 inches above my most modest bikini. Its ruined my self-esteem

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by Ashley in Michigan

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Changing the Position of a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Scar

I'm sorry that the outcome of your surgery did not match with your preoperative wishes, Ashley. If there is some laxity of your skin the scar can be lowered by excising a strip of skin between your scar and your pubic hair line. However, if your skin is tight it is unlikely that the scar could be lowered by three inches in a single operation. It may be possible to lower the scar to hide it below your bikini line by having a series of skin excisions, spaced 6-12 months apart. If the... more

Initial incision placement is the most important factor in final scar location.

I am sorry your scar is unsatisfactorily placed; I hope the skin removal and muscle tightening has given you the major improvements that tummy tuck surgery provide. But a scar that is visible or unsightly can indeed overshadow the positive aspects of this surgery, and you are well-advised to discuss this with your surgeon, or another ABPS-certified plastic surgeon in your area. As my colleagues have stated, unless significant additional skin laxity remains, significant lowering of your... more

Significant Lowering Of Tummy Tuck Scar Unlikely

The ability to lower a tummy tuck scar depends on the residual amount of skin laxity both above and below the existing scar. Since you describe the skin as tight, it seems unlikely any significant lowering can be achieved. But even with some loose skin, there is no way it is going to be lowered by 3 or more inches.

Lowering tummy tuck scar

Scar placement is important and I recommend that patients bring their favorite underwear so I can decide how and where to place the scar. Sometimes the scar can be lowered, if you have more skin laxity so it can be "pulled down" and resutured. I am very surprised that the critical goal for you in having the surgery was to hide the scar under a bikini because most women undergo surgery because they are displeased with the contour of the abdomen and excess skin. I recommend... more

Tummy Tuck Scar Revision

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to give you good advice without a physical examination. Sometimes it is possible to lower the scar but there has to be some skin "laxity" to do so. My suggestion is to visit with your surgeon and/or other plastic surgeons to discuss your options after an examination. Best wishes.