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?

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

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

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.

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.

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.