Are progressive tension sutures visible from the outside?

PTSs are more than just a space closer that negates the need for drains. They allow for tightening of the upper abdomen that you can't get without them in a traditional TT. When placing PTSs, tension is set and anchored at the top of the abdomen, breaking the 'big pull' of skin down into small, optimally tightened pieces that are locked in. When done correctly, seeing them afterward through the skin (permanently) will not happen. Many doctors resist because there is a steep learning curve, and even when surgeons become adept at them, they add 15 to 20 minutes to the procedure; time=money. Make no mistake, PTSs have changed the level of results in the tummy tuck world.

I suppose it is possible for a progressive tension suture to create an irregularity that is permanent but it is not particularly common. It is not uncommon for a stitch to create an irregularity initially but because the stitches are dissolvable as time goes on the irregularity goes away.

Hello! Progressive tension sutures (when placed correctly) should not be visible from the outside whatsoever after the healing process has taken place. Although you may see some "dimpling" in the early post operative phase, these always go away as the healing process progresses. It is a technically more challenging procedure and more time consuming which is why many plastic surgeons prefer the old traditional tummy tuck procedure. However my experience has been that patients who undergo drainless tummy tuck procedures recover much quicker and obtain much better results. Good luck!