Will the skin smooth out after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I am 4 week post TT. I noticed on the left side the there is a bulge over the incision. Will this smooth out? I know it's swollen (no fluid), but you can see a distinct separation of skin. Looking forward to a flatter tummy, not a lumpy one! Thank you.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Following
any cosmetic surgery, seeing your final results can take from several weeks for
some procedures to several months for others. A tummy tuck falls into the
second category. As healing progresses and recovery continues, your contours
will continue to look more refined, smooth and natural. There really isn’t a
way to speed up this process except to make sure your body has the rest and
support it needs. I know it’s hard to be patient, but try to stay positive and
you should see noticeable improvement before too much longer. This is why "dog
ears" at the ends of the incision that are present at the conclusion of
the surgery may resolve or improve with time. Quilting sutures may also
contribute to unevenness and will disappear with time. It is generally
recommended to wait a minimum of 4 and preferably 9 months prior to considering
scar revision.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

At four weeks after tummy tuck it is much too early worry about the ultimate outcome.  It will take e 6 months for the swelling to go down.

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

Thank you for your pictures.  You are early in your healing process. The firm areas will soften.  Keep following your plastic surgeons's advice.

Orna Fisher, MD · Answer

At 4 weeks you are still far from healed although you are likely feeling better. The appearance you describe is pretty typical and usually will smooth out with no problems. It's at least 12 weeks before you can truly judge your result.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

Allow 6 months, sometimes up to 12 for all the swelling to resolve. I would expect this small amount of irregular contour to resolve as healing progresses.  If I am wrong, the fix is a simple office procedure.All the best.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for the photos but you are really too early post op to judge your final result but express your concerns to your surgeonDr Corbin

Maan Kattash, MD, FRCS, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

It may be too early to judge on your result being 4 weeks out. Meanwhile, I recommend that you continue wearing your garment and adhering to follow up appointments.It may not hurt to share your concerns with your surgeon. Generally speaking, revisions if warranted, are considered from 6 months onwards.

Michael S. Hopkins, MD (retired) · Answer

We recommend waiting six months before evaluating surgical results.  Your early results look good and should improve as healing progresses.  Best wishes.

Michael Hueneke, MD (retired) · Answer

Time really is a big deal in plastic surgery. Most things improve and it does take months. Be patient.

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

At just 4 weeks following a tummy tuck you are still swollen and it may take another 6 weeks or so tho see long term results.  Check with your surgeon but compression garments and/or gentle massage can help speed the process.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.

Will the skin smooth out after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (12)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

My stomach parts in two. I don't have children. Is it a condition? Can I fix this? If it is fixable, is it permanent? (Photo)

Why would a navel close in on itself while healing? Can it be corrected with revision to have a normal size & look? (Photo)

Is it possible to combine a tummy tuck and an outer thigh lift?

Is my current scar from myomectomy too low to be removed during upcoming hysterectomy/ tummy tuck surgery? (Photo)

When does the itching stop?

I'm getting a tummy tuck and BBL next year and I'm using birth control. Should I have it removed before surgery?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS