Can I correct hyperpigmentation of my tummy tuck scar? (Photo)

Question

I had my tummy tuck 9 months ago and have been very careful about protecting my scar from the sun. This past week we went on a beach vacation. I wore an SPF50 rash guard over my bikini and thought that would be enough. Now I notice my scar is much darker than before. Is there anything I can do to lighten my scar?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Abdominoplasty scars can be quite complex, ranging from the simple hypertrophic scar to a multiplane inflamed keloid. Pigmentation, discoloration, chronic inflammation, scar visibility can all occur in the short term. We begin each treatment with combination therapy using Yellow broadband BBL, Vbeam, fractional erbium, intralesional IIT, and scar modulation. Start with a combination of Plato's Scar Serum massaged twice daily after one week of epithelialization followed by Luminase/Exfolase. Scar consultation and revision may be recommended.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  Scar hyperpigmentation after sun exposure can occur for a year or more after surgery.  It is imperative that you protect the scar from sun exposure. While sunscreen is helpful, it washes off as soon as you go into the water and has to be reapplied every 3-4 hours.  Additionally, bathing suits do provide some but not idea spf protection.  Wearing additional SPF clothing over the suit can help.  I would recommend trying either 4% Hydroquinone or Triluma to help fade the hyperpigmentation. It will take a few months to see improvement, so be patient.  Best wishes on your recovery.

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Your scar looks very good.  If you want to influence the pigmentation ask your surgeon for a bleaching cream with hydroquinone.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

There is no way that you could call this scar hyper pigmented.  If you want to lighten it, ask the surgeon for hydroquinone.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Usually with time the scar lightens on its own. Your scar actually looks pretty good.  Best of luck with your results.

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

In my opinion your scar looks excellent and should continue to lighten over time. Continue with what you are doing as you have done an excellent job. Best wishes.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

I do not see any problem with your scar from your sun exposure.  You are taking excellent care of your scar as far as sun protection.

Sanjiv Kayastha, MD · Answer

Your scar does not look hyperpigmented. At 9 months your scar is very well healed and it is unlikely that some incidental sun would cause it to hyperpigment. If your scar did darken with you beach vacation it should lighten in the same way your tan would naturally fade.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Seriously! Your score result is excellent. Therefore I would NOT recommend any tx. If you are so concerned about the scar result you might consider a decorative tattoo.....

Joseph Franklin, MD · Answer

I agree with Dr. Lawton.   There doesn't appear to be hyperpigmentation of your scar.   However, if the color or texture of the scar bothers you, then the treatment options include BBL, profractional laser treatment, or hydroquinone.