Scar and hip area - what can I do to improve it? (Photo)

Question

I have a tummy tuck over a year ago and I’m pretty happy with the results. Other than I feel like I still have fat sides. I went to three different consultations and they all said no liposuction with procedure was needed. May because the area that bothers me is more hip but I’m trying to see what can I do to improve it and what also would be an option for the scar. It’s too low on hips and shows when wearing any kind of clothing cut

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding your hip area and scar placement following your tummy tuck. Based on your description and photo, it seems that your concerns can likely be addressed with a revision procedure tailored to your needs.

Depending on your skin laxity, a revision procedure could lift the hips and reposition the scar to a more desirable location. This involves releasing the scar and elevating the surrounding tissue for a smoother, more contoured appearance. It’s possible to achieve an excellent aesthetic result without combining this procedure with additional liposuction, especially if the issue is more related to skin placement rather than excess fat.

If you feel that fat accumulation is contributing to your dissatisfaction with the hip area, liposuction could be considered as an add-on to further refine the contour. However, it's not a necessity for addressing the scar or achieving a hip lift.

I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in revision surgeries. They can evaluate your skin laxity and discuss whether lifting the hip area and repositioning the scar would achieve your desired outcome.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Santana8801,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

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

Santana 8801.

Thank you for your pictures. It is debatable, whether or not suction would help your sides. I have Mike suction patients that are thin. We've had tummy tucks and remove more fat than expected. It's all is based on your examination. Pertaining to your scar, yes it's low and there are not too many things that can be done about it. I certainly would not try to have anybody relocate the scar. Your best options may be silicone bandages/strips and time.

Respectfully,

ESJ,

#TruthAndTransformation

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello; How to make the incision; you should have discussed with your doctor; beforehand, what type of underwear you wear. Since, the incision is usually made for; remaining in frequently used underwear. The scar is much lower than your underwear; it is not possible to reach that level. The color of the scar has changed and matured. There is no swelling or widening of the scar. Therefore, in order to make the scar looks better; there is no treatment available.

Ellen Ozolins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. After a tummy tuck, it’s common to have one or more scars. Regarding your question about how to improve the appearance of the hip scar, scar revision and/or lumecca laser could be good options. Scar revision can improve the scar appearance by making it blend more seamlessly with the surrounding skin in terms of color and texture. It has several techniques such as topical treatments, injectables, skin resurfacing techniques, or surgery. Lumecca laser is a powerful intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment used for skin rejuvenation. It delivers light energy that penetrates all layers of the skin without harming the surface. Many people notice improved skin appearance after one session, and optimal results can be achieved with 2-3 treatments. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help determine the best scar revision approach.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Your photos suggest some contour improvement could be achieved through liposuction, but confirmation would require a physical examination. Regarding your scars, fortunately they have healed nicely as there is no practical way to substantially move them.

Azita Madjidi, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Once the scar is there , it cannot be erased. Your seems to be flat and mature so no reason to revise. Your pictures do not show the entire abdomen in standard takes. It's best to discuss it with you surgeon. 
I would not do liposuction just because you feel some fat at your waist or hip area. You need some fat to have an aesthetically normal abdomen without skin irregularities or unusual step offs on the side.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question
Reach out to your plastic surgeon to discuss options for a possible scar revision. 
Best wishes!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Just based on your limited two photos, liposuction might be helpful to remove excess fat. An examination is needed to be certain. The scar might be able to be raised a small amount, but an exam is needed to be certain, too.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the submitted photos it appears the scar is healing well and revising it is not advisable.  It will continue to fade and soften over time.  If you are wanting further contouring of your waist and hips you can consider liposuction as you are far enough out from your tummy tuck.  See a board certified plastic surgeon near you to determine if you are a candidate based on your surgical goals.

Scar and hip area - what can I do to improve it? (Photo)

Answers (12)

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