When can one start deep scar tissue massage after a full tummy tuck? Can it hurt more than it can help if done too soon? (Photo)

Question

Hi. I'm 7wks post-op. I had to drop my body garment at w6 when I started to show signs of Meralgia Paresthetica. I stopped using embrace. Kept peeling off and have been using sil sheets + hypafix 24/7. My therapist decided it was time to deep massage the scar tissue. However, I read that tension should be avoided for at least 12 weeks. The massage is pretty agressive with pulling, pushing and twisting of the skin. I can't stop thinking if all of this can worsen the incision and make the scar wider?

Adolfo Sesto, MD · Answer

Hi. Drainage massages can begin as soon as the drain is removed. This massages are given to improve the linfatic circulation after the surgery and help with discomfort and edema. Ultrasound is also advisable. But ask your PS first.International Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
Member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
Member of the International Confederation of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (IPRAS)
25 years experience

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Dsayan,Hello and thank you for your excellent question. I typically recommend deep tissue massage to the areas around the incision at about 3-4 weeks postop, or when I expect the incision to be completely healed. The safest bet is to check with your plastic surgeon directly.  If you have any questions, call our office for assistance. Good luck!
  
Best,
  
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS
  
Harvard educated plastic surgeon
  
Texas “Top Doc” 2017, 2018
  
RealSelf100
  
America’s Top Plastic Surgeons, Consumer’s Research Council, 2010 – 2018
  
BeautyAdvisor Top Contributor

When can one start deep scar tissue massage after a full tummy tuck? Can it hurt more than it can help if done too soon? (Photo)

Answers (2)