Tummy Tuck 6 wks ago, last 2 wks I've noticed dark red stretch marks appearing. hy do I have these, and will they ever go away?

Question

The first four week after surgery I didn't notice any stretch marks at all. Right now I put coco butter on day and night. WThanks very much.

William Bruno, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck will effectively remove most stretch marks from the level of your belly button to your pubic area. Any stretch marks higher or above your belly button will typically remain, however they will be in a lower position once the procedure is completed. I have not seen new stretch marks created due to a tummy tuck procedure.

	If you have new red stretch marks,you can try Mederma or a silicone based scar cream such as Kelo-cote or Hybrisil.

	Follow up with your plastic surgeon for a more detailed physical exam and evaluation.

	Best wishes,

	Dr.Bruno

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Tummy_08,

Thank you for reaching out with your concerns. It's understandable to be worried about any unexpected changes following surgery.

While it's uncommon for stretch marks to develop directly as a result of a tummy tuck procedure, it's possible that they may have been present but not as noticeable before the surgery. The tightening of the skin during a tummy tuck can sometimes bring out existing stretch marks that were previously hidden.

The appearance of dark red stretch marks in the weeks following surgery can be concerning, but it's essential to address them with your plastic surgeon. They can provide a professional assessment of the situation and offer guidance on the best course of action.

In the meantime, continuing to moisturize the area with cocoa butter as you're doing may help improve the skin's elasticity and reduce the visibility of the stretch marks over time.

I recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and explore potential treatment options. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation and help alleviate any worries you may have.

Take care, and best wishes for your recovery.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not
unusual for abdominoplasty patients to have extensive stretch marks.In many cases, these stretch marks are located
above the umbilicus prior to surgery.When abdominoplasty is performed these stretch marks may not be totally
removed, but instead relocated to a level below the umbilicus.When these stretch marks are stretched by a
tight abdominal closure, they may not be noticeable.As the closure relaxes, they may become red
and extremely visible.It’s unlikely that stretch marks
would develop following abdominoplasty surgery.Stretch marks take time to develop and for this reason this scenario
would be unlikely.Under the
circumstances, stretch marks that were present prior to surgery have probably
become more noticeable in your case.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I have never seen a stretch mark caused by an abdominoplasty. Many are removed when they are below the navel and some might be moved somewhat, but never created (in my experience). There is no non-surgical treatment for stretch marks so don't waste your money.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

It is very unusual that you are forming stretch marks from surgery.
It is more likely that you are visualizing pre existing striae that become more visible from increased blood supply during the healing process.

Usha Rajagopal, MD · Answer

It is unusual to have stretch marks after a tummy tuck, but if it does occur, it is important to start treating it right away. There is a prescription medicine that can be used called Retin A. It can be used twice a day to improve the color and the way the stretch marks look. This should not be used if you are pregnant or nursing. 

	Also the V beam laser can improve the appearance of the red stretch marks.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Tummy tucks are an extremely popular and effective way to contour the abdomen. Patients especially love losing the stretch marks below the belly button. Patients should also have to say a significant recovery process. You will see your final result in approximately 6 to 8 months after the surgery. For the first month or so, you will have some significant swelling. As your swelling is now resolving, you may notice some of your stretch marks. Rest assured that this is not your final result. At this time, you should be patient as your abdomen will continue to change for the next 5 to 6 months. At that time reevaluate your result. Many of our patients who felt that their stretch marks were noticeable at the beginning of the healing process were very satisfied at the end.
	To learn more about tummy tucks, see photos, and help you decide which one is best for you, please visit us at the link below:

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

While I suppose stretch marks can occur after a tummy tuck, I do not recall ever seeing them. More than likely you had them before and the tummy tuck just brought them into easier view.

Peter A. Aldea, MD · Answer

Stretch Marks would be more accurately termed - Stretch Cracks. In fact, they are not marks or smudges of the skin but full thickness cracks in the skin layers (dermis) caused by rapid excessive stretching of the skin.
I have NEVER seen stretch marks caused by a Tummy Tuck. In this operation, the muscles are brought back to the midline and "taken in" while the overlying skin is trimmed of any excess. The skin is NOT pulled tightly because doing so would would certainly disrupt the wound.
In my opinion, you most likely are seeing stretch marks which were present before surgery but are now found in a new location. You can easily very this by asking to look at your BEFORE pictures.
Dr. P. Aldea

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Tummy,
The stretch marks that you are seeing were probably there before your surgery.  The swelling and inflammation caused by the surgery sometimes causes residual stretch marks to redden and swell as well.  They become more visible when this happens.  They should lighten again over time.  Good luck!

Tummy Tuck 6 wks ago, last 2 wks I've noticed dark red stretch marks appearing. hy do I have these, and will they ever go away?

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