Why are some tummy tuck scars straight across the tummy while others are a U-shape?

Dear monoDi_Mom,Thank you for your questions.My responses:1)Incision position, location and form is based on the patients desire and Surgeons experience. I personally ask patients to bring the smallest bathing suit bottoms and design a incision that can be covered by the bathing suit.2)Final scar appearance complex. However go to embrace.com and you will see a variety of abdominoplasty incisions/scars of treated and untreated patients (see below).3)final scar results are probably 80% genetic. Which means if a careful skin closure was performed.... how you heal is based on your own body and how your biological parents heal.4)we can modulate healing and hopefully using different pre and post operative modalities:PRE OPERATIVEA) no smokingB) healthy/balanced dietC) vitamins INTRAOPERATIVE/TECHNIQUEA) gentle handling of the tissueB) meticulous, multilayered closure (deeper layers reducing tissue tension and superficial layers aligning the skinC)correct size and tension of non absorbable sutures in the skin or when indicated use of skin glue (Dermabond is one brand). D)tension free (this is relative.... In abdominoplasty it is the most difficult because we are wanting to get a flat and tight abdominal countour).POST OPERATIVEA)Embrace- a device we put on Abdominoplasty (tummy tucks) incisions several days after surgery. Please go to their web site.B)silicone gel sheeting (new gel is one of several brands)C)pressureD)massageE) lasersF) steroid injections G) rarely superficial radiation.Please make a appt. with experienced Plastic Surgeon who is Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery).My best wishes,I wish you my best and success,R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACSDiplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgerywwwimagineplasticsurgery.com4646 Brockton AveRiverside, Ca 92506(951) 686-7600

There are any number of issues that can affect scar shape:  a patient's anatomy, surgeon preference, patient preference, and the technique used to name a few. My best,Dr. Sheila Nazarian@drsheilanazarian on Instagram