Tummy tuck revision - is it possible to have this scar lowered? (Photo)

Hello Tinacccc, and thank you for your question regarding the possibility of lowering your tummy tuck scar.

Thank you for sharing your photos and history. When evaluating abdominal laxity and scars, it’s important to assess the tightness of the abdominal wall while standing. From your description, your abdominal wall appears tight and flat when standing. If you can pinch some abdominal skin while bending over, this is normal to an extent. However, the ability to pinch skin while bending does not necessarily mean that additional skin removal during a revision tummy tuck would be possible. If too much skin were removed, it could lead to functional issues, such as difficulty standing upright.

In your case, since you do not have significant excess skin, it is unlikely that your current scar can be lowered. Instead, I recommend focusing on improving the appearance of the scar itself. Options for scar enhancement include silicone ointments, silicone gel sheeting, and Fraxel laser treatments to reduce scar visibility and improve texture.

If you are concerned about excess skin in specific areas of your abdomen, you may want to explore additional procedures. A vertical abdominoplasty could address excess skin in the central portion of the abdomen by removing a large elliptical section of skin and fat from the breastbone to the pubic region. Alternatively, a lateral tummy tuck (or hourglass procedure) targets excess skin and fat on the sides of the torso, enhancing the hourglass shape.

While these procedures can refine the appearance of your abdomen, none will lower your current scar. I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and determine the best course of action.

Good luck, and I hope this helps address your concerns.

Sincerely,
J. Timothy Katzen, MD

Depending on the elasticity of the remaining skin, it is possible to lower the level of the scar. Ideally, we like to make the scar 5-7. cm from the anterior vaginal forchette tapering it into the waistline. This can be done with a light oral sedation and local tumescent anesthesia. Thank you.

The scar from your tummy tuck is placed quite high. If you still have some lax skin the incision may be able to be lowered somewhat. You will want to wait a few more months and then visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation.