Is bunching and rippling of the skin on the sides of the incision normal eight days after a tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck eight days ago and I'm extremely concerned about how my skin is bunching on the sides of the incision I am using the scar cream sold to me by the surgeon twice a day however I am worried that this bunching is not going to be resolved even overtime

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question and photo. This type of skin pleating along the incision is common post Tummy Tuck. Over time, as inflammation resolves and the scar matures this should soften, stretch and smooth out. You will likely need to be patient for a few more months as this transforms. I recommend that you follow up with your plastic surgeon if you have any concerns.All the best

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Momcave2017,I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a TT surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process at 8 days  post op.
Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.
At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides you will be able to see the final result of your surgery. Based on your photos, it looks like there is no obvious reason to be concerned. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Tim Sayed, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Some surgeons will "pleat" the skin this way to try to contain the length of the incision. These pleats often smooth out; sometimes they don't. If they don't, revision of the scar can often be done to smooth things after the scar has healed and matured. Right now it is too early to be concerned about anything as this is very common technique. Your surgeon will likely have you do some standard scar treatments to help things smooth out after the wound is healed enough to form a stable and manipulable scar.

M. Jude LaBarbera, MD · Answer

I understand why you would be concerned, but it is not uncommon this early after a tummy tuck to have this type of bunching of the skin.  The skin is a pretty amazing organ, and over time it tends to blend, flatten, smooth out, etc.  I recommend staying in close contact with your plastic surgeon who will help you through the postoperative period.

Is bunching and rippling of the skin on the sides of the incision normal eight days after a tummy tuck? (Photo)

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