I see many different tummy tuck scars. Some are horizontal, others are shaped like a "V" or "U". Why are scars cut that way?

Question

I see many different Tummy Tuck scars, some are Horizontal and others are shaped like a "V" or "U". Why are some scars located lower and others are higher? Why would a doctor make an incision a certain way? Example: "V" or "U" shape or horizontal Does making an incision a certain way pose a health risk?

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Excellent Question! Most plastic surgeons try to design incisions for elective surgery to hide the scar, or at least make it less noticeable. This is key in Tummytuck surgery because the scar is fairly long.before Tummytuck, I routinely ask my patients to bring along either bikini bottoms or panties to help me design incisions to hide the scars beneath skimpy clothing. Some of the scars you describe are chosen to hide the scars beneath specific tapes of underwear or bikini bottoms. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon, good luck!

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

There are a few different techniques for the tummy tuck that result in different scars.  For example the standard tummy tuck has an almost straight incision versus the high lateral designed like a V.  They can be designed to fit the individuals preference for undergarments.  Some have benefits of tightening different areas of the abdomen.  Best of luck. Dr. Michael OmidiAn in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and provide true medical advice.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

It is a combination of anatomy and surgeon preference. I often have patients say they don't want a particular type of scar and if anatomically that makes sense we do that. Sometimes the anatomic restrictions limit our options somewhat and after discussing that the patient will need to make a decision about what to accept.....or not.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question.The scar location and shape are dependent on your body (location and amount of skin excess) as well as your surgeon's technique and attention to detail.Scar can be place low; however, if you do not have much skin excess, vertical extension may be needed.Please consult an experience board-certified plastic surgeon and ask where you scar would be.Best regards.

James McMahan, MD (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your thoughtful question.  There are many types of tummy tucks and the scars are different for each.  One of the things that a good plastic surgeon does is to try and make the scars as minimal as possible.  Do do that, one the most important things to do is to make the incision along the natural skin lines as scars heal better that way. Therefore, the best scar for a tummy tuck is generally a horizontal gently curved scar on the lower abdomen.  The position of the scar depends on how much skin is removed and how much extra skin exists above the belly button.  It is easier to demonstrate this in person than to describe it. Be sure to see an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon.

I see many different tummy tuck scars. Some are horizontal, others are shaped like a "V" or "U". Why are scars cut that way?

Answers (5)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

If I were to get a Tummy Tuck, will my surgeon be able to fill out FMLA paperwork for my job?

4 weeks post tummy tuck, all of a sudden I look 6 months pregnant, after being flat. What can I do? (Photo)

Dark bruise-like area around incision area of Tummy tuck. Skin necrosis Vs ecchymosis and epidermolysis. (photos)

Is 20 pounds of fluid retention after Tummy tuck/lipo normal?

Can my op still go ahead with low white blood cells & platelets before fleur de lis tummy tuck? & what can cause this?

Do I need more liposuction too even my tummy tuck out ? It's like a shelf on my tummy.

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS