How long should I wait until I get a tattoo after Tummy Tuck?

Question

I want to get one on my stomach covering my scar. When will it be safe to get one?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Your plastic surgeon will be your best guide when it comes to your plan to tattoo over the scar. In my practice, I would likely ask that you wait until you are at least 12 months out of surgery.   Best wishes.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Every surgeon has different protocols I usually tell my patients to wait at least 12 months after a tummy tuck.best wishes.

Jerry Chidester, MD · Answer

Brandy, great question!
After abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery, scars on the lower abdomen can take 12 months to 18 months to fully mature (i.e. turn from dark red, to pink, to light).  Some people scar differently than others (thicker scars, raised scars, etc.).Following a tummy tuck (+/- liposuction), there is also swelling in the skin and soft tissue that can take anywhere from 3 - 6 months to fully resolve.  As the swelling decreases, so does the stretch on your skin.When it comes to tattooing, especially if you are planning on placing over your tummy tuck scar, it would be ideal to wait until the scars have matured and the swelling has resolved.  Best thing would be to talk to your plastic surgeon about when they think your particular tummy is ready for tattooing!

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Usually I recommend to wait for the scar to mature which is 9-12 months. Please check with your PS for clarification

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. It should generally be safe to get a tattoo once the incision is completely healed. Your surgeon really should "sign off" on that decision first though. I would suggest waiting 3-6 months after surgery. Best wishes

How long should I wait until I get a tattoo after Tummy Tuck?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tattoo after TT

Answer: Tattoo after TT

Answer: Scarring after TT

Answer: Scarring after TT

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How long should I wait until I get a tattoo after Tummy Tuck?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tattoo after TT

Answer: Tattoo after TT

Answer: Scarring after TT

Answer: Scarring after TT

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.