T-scar prior piercing hole and indentation - would you recommend anything to improve the appearance of this scar? (Photo)

It is actually possible to routinely avoid a vertical scar with adequate flexion of the operating table during surgery - a maneuver that allows the surgeon to approximate the wound edges without leaving a vertical scar (it does take a few weeks to stand up fully straight). However, at this point, that is not possible. You would benefit from a scar revision that can be done under local anesthesia, eliminating the depression deformity, and giving you a straight-line scar.

Thank you for your question.
Micro needling may be an option to help reduce the appearance of the scar. Speak with your surgeon for his/her recommendations. Best wishes!

I would recommend a scar revision. This would remove the piercing holes and create a finer scar. This could be done under local anesthesia. I would see your surgeon and discuss this matter him.

Dear dreambigorwhybother,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos, it looks like it can be improved under local anesthesia. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

This is a good question. Sometimes non-invasive things can be done to help scarring - this can include silicone gel/sheets, lasers, compression, injections etc. Since your surgery is over a year out, the scar is considered a "mature" scar and will not change too much with non-invasive modalities. If the indentation continues to bother you, you may consider a scar revision where the scar is cut out and closed again. This is a quick, straightforward procedure that can be done awake in the office. Hope this helps!

Thank you for your query. The piercing can be closed with a small scar revision under local anaesthesia.. For the rest of the scar which has the indentation, I would recommend autologous fat injections after subcision . Please discuss your options with your Plastic surgeon. All the best!

Thank you for your question and for sharing your history. Based on your description, it sounds like you are an excellent candidate for scar revision to improve the appearance of your T-scar. Scar revision involves excising the old scar tissue and creating a new, more aesthetically pleasing scar. This is a straightforward procedure that many plastic surgeons perform, especially when addressing concerns like prior piercing holes or indentations.

During the procedure, your surgeon will remove the current scar tissue, along with any visible piercing marks. The new incision will be carefully sutured to ensure a more refined result. Over time, with proper healing and scar management, the new scar will typically fade and blend better with your skin.

At 13 months post-op, your scar is almost fully mature, making it an ideal time for revision if needed. Since you already have a follow-up appointment scheduled, this is a great opportunity to discuss your concerns and plan for the revision.

If the scar is indented, the revision can also address this issue by adjusting the tension of the skin closure. This can smooth out the area and create a more even contour.

After the revision, your surgeon may recommend silicone scar sheets, massage, or topical treatments to ensure optimal healing and minimize the scar's visibility over time.

Since you're happy with the overall results of your tummy tuck, refining the scar is a natural next step to perfect your outcome. Be sure to communicate your goals clearly with your plastic surgeon during your follow-up appointment to ensure the best plan moving forward.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

If you’re happy with your results then there would be no need to seek another procedure. If you are concerned about the scar, though, please discuss this with your surgeon. They may suggest a revision to smooth out the scar and close the piercings.

It seems you heal very nicely in general, and I think this site could be improved somewhat with a vertical excision with piercing holes and closure. It will not fix the entire depressed area but I think you might get a very nice improvement.

now that you are over a year out from your primary surgery, an in-office scar revision could easily be performed. This would involve cutting out the existing scar (and piercing) and re closes with a multi-layered closure. This should improve indented appearance an remove the piercing.
Sean Fisher Aesthetic Plastic SurgeonSeattle, WA