Will the pucker in my tummy tuck incision go away? (Photo)

Question

I am 23 days post op tummy tuck with muscle repair and lipo. I am healing pretty well but I've noticed on part of my incision it looks almost puckered up. What is the likelihood that will fade and fix itself? Will this require revision?

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

Hi ksmeyer1,  Your appearance right now is very typical 3 weeks after a tummy tuck. Sometimes it may take up to a year for all the swelling to go down. Everything looks quite normal for where you are in your post-op course.  Continue to take it easy and rest. The swelling should get a little better every week. If you want, call your doctor and let him/her know your concerns. Perhaps you can go in for a check and you will feel much better if you do,Best Wishes,Dr. Christine Rodgers

Bryan Armijo, MD · Answer

It can take a few months for your TT to heal. The appearance of your stomach will go through changes throughout the healing process, so as of now it’s a bit soon to tell if you should be concerned. An in-person examination with your surgeon would give you clear answers. They will be able to tell you how you’re healing. They can also recommend post op care instructions to help with scarring.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your pictures.  In my opinion, your incision looks fine.  The slight puckering will flatten over time.  Best wishes.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

The best thing to do if you have questions about the healing process is to visit your surgeon directly to have the area examined and make sure that everything is progressing well. Good luck.

Brian S. Glatt, MD, FACS · Answer

Great question! Yes, the puckering you are noticing is normal following this procedure. All of your sutures will take a few months to 1 year to completely dissolve,  thus making your incision line flatter and more aesthetically pleasing.  I encourage you to continue to follow the post-operative instructions given to you by your board certified plastic surgeon. Best wishes!

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hi, This is fairly common after a tummy tuck and typically resolves by around 3 months. Talk to your surgeon about when you can start scar massage, as this can help speed that process. All the best in your recovery, Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

Only 23 days, your skin is still maturing, settling, and stretching. Discuss with your surgeon a routine of massage to help soften and flatten this area. From the looks of things, it should just fine given time and prolonged massage.Best of luck!

Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

Thanks for your question regarding your tummy tuck. All looks fine at present and the scar will settle with time. Keep in touch with your PS who can advise you regarding scar management and massage.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. What you described is very common after TT. Usually settles in 3-6 months. Please continue to follow your PS

Michael Zenn, MD · Answer

It is still very early in the healing process. The puckering may take several months to relax. Be sure to discuss scar management with your plastic surgeon.

Best wishes on your recovery

Will the pucker in my tummy tuck incision go away? (Photo)

Answers (12)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (12)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

IBS and tummy tuck with muscle repair?

Will gallstones affect my tummy tuck?

How common are seromas after a tummy tuck (national average)?

Swelling and upper abdomen protruding - what could this be? (Photo)

How to afford a tummy tuck..?

Can I get a flat stomach and my abs back naturally after having a c-section or do I need to have a tummy tuck done? (photos0

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS