Is Red Light Therapy OK for Tummy Tuck Incisions? (photo)

Question

My gym offers free red light therapy and I was wondering if it would help or be harmful to my tummy tuck incision. I am 7 weeks post op and a woman of color, so I worry about hyperpigment. And because of hyperpigment I plan to keep my incision covered for at least 12 months even under my swim suits. My incision is great now, I have no complaints. I just want to do all that I can. So if red light therapy would help prevent thick scar tissue from developing later then it would we worth it using to me.

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Your scars appear to be healing well without any thickening.  Silicone sheeting is most helpful for preventing scar thickening. It should be worn every day for 4-6 months. Gelzone wraps work well in tummy tuck patients and can be resused.  It can be quite cumbersome so some patients prefer to use silicone gel.  I usually recommend the Biocorneum brand because it includes a sunscreen.  The hyperpigmentation or darkening of the incision is a natural response to the inflammatory phase of wound healing. It is best treated with 4% hydroquinone for 4-6 months for best results.   Redness of the scar usually resolves on its own with time but resolution can be accelerated with intense pulse light treatments.  Red LED light does have some anti-inflammatory properties in test tubes and in acne patients, but does not have a lot of strong evidence in terms of scar management. Probably safe, but also not likely to be very effective.  Best wishes on your recovery.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, red light therapy can be helpful for your incisions, but it really depends on the type of light they are using - type, power and intensity.  Also, don't expect miracles, it is not a magic eraser.  Incisions take months to heal.  It looks like you are healing nicely.  We offer LED light therapy in our office in addition to V Beam Perfect Laser to help patient's incisions heal faster.  Additionally, V Beam laser has been shown to significantly reduce bruising after surgical procedures and injection treatments.

	 

	Good Luck.

	 

	Good Luck.

Gregory T. Lynam, MD · Answer

Silicone gel is a good idea. Red light if it heats the tissue could cause hyper pigmentation. Your scar is great so far! Good Luck.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I would advise against red light therapy. This doesn't do anything to help the outcome of the scar.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

It will not hurt the healing but it could be a waste of timer and $'s for you. Best to ask your chosen surgeon.

Is Red Light Therapy OK for Tummy Tuck Incisions? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Red light therapy doesn't do anything to improve the scar.

Answer: Red light therapy doesn't do anything to improve the scar.

Answer: Is Red Light Therapy OK for Tummy Tuck Incisions?

Answer: Is Red Light Therapy OK for Tummy Tuck Incisions?

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Is Red Light Therapy OK for Tummy Tuck Incisions? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Red light therapy doesn't do anything to improve the scar.

Answer: Red light therapy doesn't do anything to improve the scar.

Answer: Is Red Light Therapy OK for Tummy Tuck Incisions?

Answer: Is Red Light Therapy OK for Tummy Tuck Incisions?

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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.