How soon can I get a tattoo after a tummy tuck?

Question

I have a tummy tuck scheduled for a few weeks time. I have previously had a c section which healed within about 4 weeks. I know a tummy tuck is a big procedure, but how soon after can I schedule a tattoo on or around the tummy tuck scar?

Carolina Restrepo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The best person to advice you will be your specific surgeon as he/she will have a better knowledge of your recovery. Normally patients should wait around 3- 4 months to make sure that everything is healing well although this varies patient to patient.

Joubin Gabbay, MD · Answer

It is very important to allow this skin to heal and soften after the tummy tuck. The response to the tattoo may be different in skin that is still tight and healing. I would wait at least 3 to 6 months after the procedure before having a tattoo placed.It's critical that you seek the advice of a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has extensive experience with tummy tucks.
I wish you the best,
Dr. Gabbay.

Adam Hamawy, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your post! To be safe and to ensure the best outcome of your surgery scarring (and your tattoo!), it would be wise to wait until you have healed from your tummy tuck surgery -- a minimum of six weeks -- and best to wait until your scars have settled -- typically six to twelve months. You do not want to further irritate your surgery site in any way until you have made a full recovery, since this will increase your risk of developing very visible scarring or even for complications like infection. Your best resource for this would be the plastic surgeon who will be performing your tummy tuck, since they will know your body and your procedure on a more detailed level. Good luck!

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

The safest time to have the tattoo would be at 6 months, when your body has fully recovered and the incision has healed. This way you could prevent infection and other similar complications. Your surgeon, however, would be your best resource for information regarding post-op concerns as each surgeon has his/her own protocols.

Gianna Ramos, MD · Answer

Hello
Thanks for your question.
I will recommend you to wait at least 6 months to have a tattoo, the incision need to be completely healed before having anything on it or around the area. 
Good luck :)
Dra. Gianna Ramos

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!Thanks for the question and provided information as well.The best advise would be to allow the healing process to be resumed and to consult your PS since each surgeon has different post op instructions.Good luck :)

How soon can I get a tattoo after a tummy tuck?

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