Diastis Recti Scarring - is there any way to avoid the long scar from a tummy tuck?

Question

I'm wondering if there's anyway to avoid the long scar from tummy tucks and what not. Do any providers do it shorter/smaller? Is it necessary to have it so long?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello BRITT1213 in Whitehorse,
Thank you for your inquiry about alternatives to a traditional tummy tuck that can minimize scarring while addressing diastasis recti. Diastasis recti, the separation of the abdominal muscles, is a common issue, and there are indeed innovative surgical techniques that can help correct this with less scarring.
One such technique is the laparoscopic approach. This method involves making five small incisions across the abdomen, each about the size of a pencil eraser. Through these incisions, surgical instruments and a camera are inserted. The abdomen is then inflated with air, similar to routine laparoscopic surgeries like gallbladder removal. The rectus diastasis is repaired from the inside, using special sutures. Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. This approach offers the benefit of minimal scarring.
Another option is the open technique, which involves a smaller incision made in the lower abdomen, akin to a C-section scar. The incision is made in the pubic region, and dissection is carried up to the sternum. A long instrument, similar to a needle holder, is then used to plicate the rectus muscles, correcting the diastasis recti with a relatively small scar.
It's important to note that most patients with rectus diastasis also have loose skin and some excess fat, which is why traditional tummy tucks often involve removing these as well, necessitating a larger incision. However, if your primary concern is the rectus diastasis and you have minimal loose skin or excess fat, these minimally invasive surgical options could be ideal.
I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss these techniques and determine the best approach for your specific needs and goals.
Wishing you success on your journey to improved abdominal contour and health.
Sincerely,

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  In order for a surgeon to remove excess skin from the abdomen, an incision is required.  If they make a short incision, only the skin above that incision will be removed.   For patients with just focally loose skin in the centre of their tummy this might look fine, but for most of my patients who want tummy tuck surgery, there is loose skin that goes right across the abdomen and even onto the sides of their body.  If a short incision is used for this pattern of loose skin, they will still have loose, floppy folds of skin on each side of the scar.    Most of my patients would accept the longer scar if it means the shape and contour of the abdomen will be much better.  If you seek an in-person assessment by a plastic surgeon they should be able to give you a good idea of the required incision in your case.

Jordan Kaplan, MD · Answer

Thank you for this question. A standard tummy tuck incision goes from hip to hip in the bikini line in order to remove enough extra skin. This is similar to how a tailor uses a seam to adjust clothing. If you have minimal loose skin which is located beneath your belly button then a mini-tummy tuck can be done through a smaller approximately 5 inch incision. The separation of your muscle will be repaired through a small tunnel. Please be advised that this is a great procedure but only for a small subset of patients. I hope this helps.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. To provide a valid medical opinion I will need to see pictures of you body from different angles, to evaluate if you are a candidate for a Full Tummy Tuck or a Mini Tummy Tuck.
 I would suggest to be treated by board certified plastic surgeon with experience in this procedure, to get the best desired results. Respectfully, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The tummy tuck uses a transverse scar low hidden in the bikini line. You can make a smaller incision and less skin will be excised also known as a mini tummy tuck. Also, through that it is possible to repair the diastatis recti.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Giray Genc, MD · Answer

Hello, We use liposuction combined with tummy tuck for achieving better contour and avoid excess scar. But u should not afraid of long scar if it s necessary. excess skin may cause dog ears and it looks worse than scar

Azita Madjidi, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

A shorter scar will not allow to remove excess skin on the sides and you'll end up having either dog ears or not enough skin taken out. The scar is hidden in the bikini line and the length doesn't matter as much as your final result does.

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. It is difficult to provide a proper evaluation without pictures. There is a mini tummy tuck, which requires a smaller incision, but it would depend on if you need a mini or a full tummy tuck. A regular tummy tuck also includes muscle tightening while the mini tummy tuck does not.  I recommend you schedule a consult for a proper evaluation. Make sure the surgeon you choose has extensive experience with abdominoplasty and clean credentials. Always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take care, Moises Salama MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

YES, variations of tummy tuck for women without excessive loose skin can be accomplished through smaller opening resulting in a short, low, inconspicuous scar.  This is a "type 1" tummy tuck, some examples in our tummy tuck gallery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The length of the tummy tuck scar is influenced by the amount of loose skin on the abdomen.  For those with minimal loose skin below the belly button you can consider a mini tummy tuck which has a shorter scar.  To find out what would be recommended for you schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

Diastis Recti Scarring - is there any way to avoid the long scar from a tummy tuck?

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