Why would thin person need long vertical TT scar?

Hi there and good question.
The amount of skin laxity, position of the belly button and position of the horizontal incision are the biggest factors that determine whether or not someone will need a small vertical incision as well. The more skin laxity you have, the less likely you will need that vertical incision. The lower the belly button is on the abdominal wall, the less likely you will need the vertical incision. And lastly, the lower the horizontal incision is placed (low incision is a good thing as it hides in the underwear line and gives a prettier overall result) the more likely you will need a small vertical incision. It is difficult to definitively predict in advance whether or not it is needed so it is something I like to discuss with my patients at length at the consultation.
Hope this helps!

Hello Adventurous5183. Thank you for your question regarding the need for a vertical scar after your tummy tuck.

The vertical scar you mentioned is likely related to the relocation of your belly button. During a tummy tuck, especially when there is a need to reposition the belly button, the original location of the belly button is often closed with a vertical scar. This can be necessary even in thinner patients if the amount of skin removal or the extent of tightening required involves a significant portion of the upper abdomen.

In cases where the belly button needs to be moved, the vertical scar is created to close the area where the original belly button was located. This is a common practice and helps ensure that the overall contour of the abdomen is smooth and tight. Even in patients who are fit and have not experienced significant weight loss, the positioning of the belly button and the need to address any upper abdominal skin can result in the need for this vertical scar.

I hope this helps clarify why the vertical scar was necessary in your case. Good luck, and thank you for your question regarding the vertical scar after your tummy tuck.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

There are two common needs for a vertical scar. The first is when the belly button is in a higher position and there is not enough excess skin. The small vertical line represents the closing of the skin that was previously around the belly button. The second is when there is moderate to severe skin laxity in the middle upper abdomen. This incision pattern is called fleur de lis and is seen most commonly in those with significant weight loss. More information is needed to determine why your incision pattern is the way it is. I encourage you to speak to your surgeon about your concerns.