When will the incision close after having a tummy tuck done? (Photo)

Question

I just had my TT 4days ago and I'm curious how long does it take before the incision will seal? Or when can I stand up straight? I feel like forcing my self to stand up straight but I don't want to rip the stitches. Also when Can I have a normal shower?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi. I recommend you speak to your PS to obtain his protocol for post op TT care. Each PS has somewhat different plans.  In my practice, most patients will be
placed in an abdominal binder, which they will wear the first week. There is
usually a fair amount of swelling and the binder should be opened several times
a day so that there are no pressure points. After the first 7 to 10 days the
patient is placed in an elastic garment for compression over the next six
weeks.

Swelling can persist for
several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months,
six months, and even one year. Frequently the pubic area and the scrotal and
penis area for men can become very swollen and discolored during the first two
weeks due to gravity as this is the lowest area for swelling to accumulate.

In my practice, you can return to full
activity without restrictions at 6 weeks depending on each individual case.

Incisions and Scars

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.Be sure to contact your PS for his recommendations for your continued care.#postopcare #Healing  #stitches

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

In general, it will take about 4 weeks for the scabs to fall off. 6 weeks before you can return to exercise. And about 8 weeks before it's at "full" strength which is about 80% of what you were pre-surgery. Hope this helps -- Dr. Nazarian

Charles Galanis, MD · Answer

Excellent question.  The answer depends on what you mean by "healed".  By 1-2 days after surgery the wound has sufficiently re-epithelialized such that it can come in contact with water.  By 6 weeks it will be approximately 60% of its initial strength.  By 8 weeks it will be at its maximum strength which is 80-90% of the original strength.  All of these things assume we are talking about an otherwise healthy patient and no issues with wound healing in the postoperative phase.  Specific to your question, I ask patients to maintain a flexed or "hunched over" position for the first week and then to begin to stand up straight after that first week.  This is of course my preference but by all means follow the instruction of your primary surgeon for his or her preference as he or she is the one that knows you and the specifics of your surgery best.  Good luck!

Michael Baumholtz, MD, FACS · Answer

in the absence of smoking or medical conditions that slow healing (diabetes, etc) - your incisions should heal in 2-3 weeks. Talk to your surgeon about the details in your situation and best wishes

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

as we all have our different protocols on when you can stand upright without bending at your waist and when showers can be done.  My patients can shower on POD 2 but that is my protocol.  My patients can stand upright as so as they feel they can as I do not do the tightest tummies.  So ask your surgeon and in the acute post-op phase you are in right now, you should have easy access to your surgeon.

Nicholas Tarola, MD · Answer

Incisions are typically sealed in 24-48 hours allowing them to get wet in the shower.  Incisions are usually healed enough in two weeks to begin applying scar cream.  The incision/scar usually has 50% of its ultimate strength by 6 weeks allowing for most activities to resume.  You need to contact your surgeon or surgeon's office to have your specific postop questions answered.

Chien C. Kat, MD · Answer

The would generally takes 2 weeks to heal. You can stretch and straighten yourself at 2 weeks. Shower at about 2 weeks as well.Good luck

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