4 weeks into tummy tuck, new vertical mark / scar - what is it?

Question

I am 4 weeks after my tummy tuck and I have seen some great results so far. However, I just took the binder off today to reveal a vertical mark which wasn’t there this morning. I have had a slight tingling sensation during the day and now I have what looks like an inverted (not raised) stretch party vertically from just below the incision to virtually my chest. I have tried searching on here and not found anything similar - what could this be and will it go away?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell from the photo but it may be an indentation from the seams of the binder or perhaps a garment that folded underneath the binder.  If so it should improve as you take a break from the compression.  If you have a t-shirt or other clothing between your skin and the binder be sure that the material lays flat against your skin.

Ajay Mahajan, MD, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

The vertical mark that you mention is due to compression from a seam area of the binder. This will go as the swelling subsides. It will take about 3 to 6 months for the swelling to settle down and will continue to settle for almost 12 months.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The vertical mark could be the result of a compression garment that is too tight.  Our office provides our TT/lipo patients with an adjustable compression garment.  The  patients like the support it provides to the back and to the abdomen.  The only complaint I have heard is related to the "itchiness" of the fabric which can be remedied by wearing a soft t-shirt under the garment.Any concerns of the compression garment being too tight or not fitting properly should be addressed in person with the plastic surgeon.  The compression garment could cause a burn or pressure necrosis if too tight.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation is normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Kiran Polavarapu, MD · Answer

It is possible that what you are seeing is a line caused by swelling and your compression garment. Talk to you plastic surgeon about your concerns and discuss different compression garments if you are having discomfort.

4 weeks into tummy tuck, new vertical mark / scar - what is it?

Answers (8)

Answer: 4 weeks into tummy tuck, new vertical mark / scar - what is it?

Answer: 4 weeks into tummy tuck, new vertical mark / scar - what is it?

Answer: Healing

Answer: Healing

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4 weeks into tummy tuck, new vertical mark / scar - what is it?

Answers (8)

Answer: 4 weeks into tummy tuck, new vertical mark / scar - what is it?

Answer: 4 weeks into tummy tuck, new vertical mark / scar - what is it?

Answer: Healing

Answer: Healing

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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.