Will Tummy Tuck Incision Heal Faster if You're Healthy?

If you're already in very good shape, 5'5", 115 lbs with little abdominal fat, does the incision heal more quickly? How is the fat stitched?

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3 Doctor Answers | Asked by RealSelfGirl2 in Orange County, CA, USA

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Healthy patients heal faster and better after Tummy Tuck

People who are healthy AND well-nourished heal faster and better than those who are malnourished or have conditions or diseases which decrease blood flow in the wound, the body's ability to heal or to fight infection. In a well closed abdominoplasty, we approximate the SFS (superficial fascial system) found WITHIN the fat layer - not the fat itself. Doing so allows us to pull the thigh and pubic tissues upwards without putting actual tension on the skin above. I hope this was helpful.... more

Healing in healthy patients

Although the incisions and deeper tissues may not heal "faster" with healthier patients, the risks of delayed healing is certainly increased in patients who have health issues to begin with(such as diabetes, vascular disease, radiation treatments, use of steroids, malnourished states, etc.). Layered closures help to reduce tension and aid in the healing process.

Tummy Tuck Healing

The fat layer is usually sutured with sutures that dissolve over several weeks. Incisions do not necessarily heal faster in healthy patients, but certain conditions (diabetes, hypertension, etc.) can cause a delay in wound healing.