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

Question

And some scars are jagged. What factors influence the curvature in the scar?

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

It's a good question. Some scars vary based on the patient's anatomy and the surgical technique used.In a full tummy tuck my goal is to place the incision low on the abdomen so that is concealed by underwear or a bathing suit.A board-certified plastic surgeon should listen to your goals and can show you where they expect your scar will be located after a tummy tuck procedure.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

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

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  To some degree the placement of a surgical scar is a tradeoff between a patient's anatomy, the area of concern and how best to address it, and patient preference.  The final location of the scar, however, will depend on how a patient's tissues will ultimately heal.  Hope this helps.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

There are various considerations in planning and abdominoplasty incision. Previous cars will influence the process as well the position of the umbilicus on the abdominal wall. Most plastic surgeons will ask the patient where the resulting scar works best for them in provided this is an accomplish able situation will place the incision there.

Reps B. Sundin, MD · Answer

There a few reasons why the shape of an incision can vary with a
tummy tuck.One is because the natural
fold shapes of the creases on the body.Another reason is a preference for design based on what the patient
wants.For instance, if a patient wants
to hide the scar under a bikini, the incision may be made with a higher angle
on the lateral aspect of the incision.I, personally, tend to make my tummy tuck scars straight or with a
natural curve across the lower portion of the abdomen.That is a great question to discuss with your
surgeon at your consultation.I hope
this helps!

Burton M. Sundin, MD · Answer

The shape of the incision scars can vary greatly depending on the
anatomy of the patient, her aesthetic preferences, and the surgical preferences
of the surgeon.For example, the scars
may be shaped to match the natural folds and creases of the patient’s body, or
they may be shaped with a higher angle on the lateral aspect of the incision to
hide under a bikini.Personally, my
preference is to recommend a straight incision or one with a natural curve
across the lower part of the abdomen.If
you are considering a tummy tuck and are concerned about the appearance of the
scar, I would recommend that you discuss this specific issue with your plastic
surgeon at your initial consultation.

Gordon M. Telepun, MD · Answer

Good question and good observation.  There are a number of variables.  One thing can be the shape of the patient's natural crease, which the surgeon has to follow to some degree and is the abdomen a moderate abdominoplasty or a skin excision from someone who was obese and then lost a great deal of weight.  It can also be influenced by how lax the patients upper abdomen skin is, because this skin that has to be pulled down.  It could have to do with the preferences of the surgeon and how the skin excision is designed.I try to keep my center part of the scar low on the pubic area, then follow along the thigh crease and then turn down toward the buttock, so it actually ends up with two subtle curves in it, not just a "U"Hope that helps.Gordon Telepun, MD

Michael A. Bogdan, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Dear MonoDi,

Hopefully
the scar design was discussed between the patient and the surgeon so that they
could come to an agreement.  Some patients still prefer "high"
scars to show off their thighs (think 1980's swimsuits), while most are
gravitating to the lower scars that match with current clothing trends.
 If all of their scars are jagged and wander, the surgeon is likely early
in their career and has not figured out how to make them smooth.  (Although, even experienced surgeons will occasionally
have a scar they are not happy with, and they will be analyzing why it
happened.)  When choosing a surgeon, look
over all of their photos, and choose someone who generally delivers good
results.

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

The shape and position of the scars depend on the patient's individual anatomy, patient's desire with regard to placement and type of bathing suit and underwear, as well as surgeon experience and preference.If a member of my family underwent a tummy tuck, it would be
performed by an experienced plastic surgeon who is board certified by the
American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society
for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. If you are serious about undergoing this
procedure, you should have a thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon
having those credentials, who will fully explain what is entailed in the procedures,
including both the positives and potential problems. You should be complimented
on the fact that you are seeking valid information before jumping into any
procedure.
Robert Singer, MD FACS
La Jolla, California

Julian Gordon, MD · Answer

You and your surgeon can design where the scar goes. 10 years ago women wanted "U" scars because they wore French cut bikinis and panties. Now, most of my patients chose low "hip hugging" scars because the styles have changed. You should bring in a bikini or panties the day you are marked for surgery to get the scar placed exactly where you want so it is hidden by your clothing. Good luck

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