Tummy Tuck Scar After 10 Weeks - Hyperpigmentation Problem

Hi-
I understand your concern about your scar- but your interests and final outcome will be best served by exercising as much patience as you can muster... human scars mature over the first 12-18 months after they are created, meaning that for that time period, the scars will improve in appearance on their own (even if nothing were done). After this time period, you can be confident that no further improvement will occur, and intervention would be appropriate.
I don't blame you if you don't want to wait that long to see some improvement, but because the scar will be undergoing this improvement over that time, anything you do will affect this normal maturation process- so be careful, and don't be too aggressive too early in the process.
I usually recommend simple, easy, low risk scar treatments first- even if you don't get the complete improvement you wanted from them, the low risk nature of these options will mean it's unlikely you'll regret them later too- and you haven't burnt other bridges either. Examples of these kinds of simple things are Scarguard gel, Silicone tape, and Abdo-patches (from Medical Z).
If these interventions don't give you the improvement you want, then you can consider IPL (intense pulsed light) treatments or other options like bleaching creams.
Remember- the scar is likely to improve significantly on its own- the best thing to do is to try not to get in its way.
Happy Holidays!

Thank you for your question regarding hyperpigmentation after your tummy tuck.

Hyperpigmentation around a tummy tuck scar, especially after a complication like a hematoma, is not uncommon. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces more melanin in response to inflammation or injury, which can make the scar appear darker than the surrounding skin. This can happen following surgery, especially in areas where the skin has been compromised or healing has been slower, such as after a hematoma correction.

The good news is that hyperpigmentation often fades over time, although the duration can vary depending on factors like your skin type and the extent of pigmentation. It may take several months for the pigmentation to lighten significantly.

To help speed up the fading process and improve the appearance of the scar, there are several options you can consider:

Topical Treatments: Creams containing ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, or vitamin C can help lighten hyperpigmented areas. These should be used under the guidance of your doctor.

Silicone Gel or Sheets: These can be applied to the scar to help flatten it and reduce pigmentation.

Sun Protection: Protecting the area from sun exposure is crucial, as UV rays can worsen hyperpigmentation. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and keep the area covered when possible.

Laser Treatments: In some cases, laser therapy can be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation. This should be done by an experienced dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

It's essential to discuss these options with your plastic surgeon to determine the best approach for your specific case. With time and appropriate care, the hyperpigmentation should improve, allowing your scar to blend more naturally with the surrounding skin.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Your scars are still pretty fresh and will be more prominent at this time. Take care of them and protect against sun exposure. With time, they'll fade, but you have to wait for about year for this to happen. Ask your surgeon what treatments you can do to help expedite the healing process.