Thinking about having a tummy tuck but I don't like the scar that I have been seeing. Is the scar permanent or does it fade?

Question

Is the scar from a tummy tuck permanent or does it go away over time

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Although the scars from a tummy tuck are permanent, they fade over time and if placed low enough to be concealed they can be very inconspicuous. Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) has a 97% "worth it" rating on Real Self so patients almost universally feel that it is a good trade-off to get the desired results.

Robert P. Schmid, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! Yes, the scar will fade, but any surgery and incision will always leave a faint mark. However, in my experience of doing over one thousand tummy tucks, people are quite happy tontrade the improved body contour for a faint scar. Plus, there are real advances in how we close incisions, and better post op scar management, that really improve today's scar appearance over 10-20 years ago. Best of luck to you!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, all scars are permanent. They do fade with time, but seldom disappear completely. It is important to know how well your scar heals after a surgical procedure. Good genes in this area are certainly beneficial, however, there are some people who (regardless of scar management) scar badly. Consider the pros and the cons. Once you've considered both sides intelligently, move forward with your decision. I hope this helps. Best wishes and kind regards,

John Nguyen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Reader,

The tummy tuck scar is a necessary evil to achieve the results intended.  While scars are permanent, there are many treatments available to minimize its appearance.  Such treatments are scar creams, lasers, and silicone sheeting, etc.  Finally, the placement of the scar very low towards the groin will help to hide the scar.  Good luck and be safe.

John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICS

Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Michael E. Decherd, MD, FACS · Answer

It's permanent, but I put it very low where it hides under typical underwear.  I feel like we have a very high satisfaction rate with tummy tucks.  To get the Wow results, one has to remove skin, and that will leave a scar.Good Luck!

Mahlon Kerr, MD, FACS · Answer

while all scars fade over time they will always be there just less visible. I would visit with a few PS to learn about your options and determine where your particular scar would end up. Good luck!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It may take several
months for a tummy tuck patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and
for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive
surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars
may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to
settle.

These can be improved
with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma.
Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow
with products such as Embrace.  On
occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment
including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.

Arthur M. Cambeiro, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck incision scar is permanent, but it does fade significantly over time, settling into a flat line that's colored similarly to your other skin once it has fully healed. Plastic surgeons take extra care to make the incision as low on the abdomen as possible, typically just above the pubic area. This results in a very discreet scar that stays hidden, even in most swimwear and underwear. My past patients feel that the resulting scar is well worth the smooth results of abdominoplasty.

Carlos Burnett, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes the scar is permanent but it does tend to fade over time. Ask your BCPS for his/her specific management for scar treatment. Good luck DrBurnett#realself100

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The scar after TT continue to get lighter after 3 months. Also some scar maneuvers can be done depending on how it is healing. Scar maturation time is about 9-12 months.Please consult with a board certified PS for evaluation.

Thinking about having a tummy tuck but I don't like the scar that I have been seeing. Is the scar permanent or does it fade?

Answers (16)

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