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.

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.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. My father told me this years ago and it applies abundantly to your case. Did you have a tummy tuck at the gym? Of course not. Your treatment, including postop scar management, should remain in the hands of a board certified plastic surgeon.  Red light therapy is not benign and can produce hyper pigmentation, which would make your scar unsightly.

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

Answers (8)