After gaining and losing a significant amount of weight, many people are ready to complete their transformation by removing the excess skin that is left behind. The best way to address excess skin is with tummy tuck surgery. However, this type of surgery can present its own set of considerations. Perhaps the most notable is tummy tuck scar healing.
Why Tummy Tuck Scars Can Be Problematic
No matter the type of surgery you have, scar tissue will develop if an incision is made in the skin. Sometimes, these scars are small and barely noticeable, such as with a facelift or laparoscopic surgery. However, with more extensive surgeries like a tummy tuck, scarring tends to be much more significant as the incision is much larger.
Scars aren’t inherently bad, but if you want to minimize your tummy tuck scar, there are certain steps you should take.
Scars aren’t inherently bad. Many people love their scars and the stories they tell. But for some people getting plastic surgery, they can be upsetting. When you are putting time, effort and money into improving your appearance, it can be a struggle to accept that the trade-off is a scar.
The good news is that for most people who follow their doctor’s tummy tuck recovery tips, the scar should fade significantly over time. Eventually, it should be nothing more than a line that is slightly off color from the rest of your skin. Furthermore, most tummy tuck incisions are made low enough that they can be easily hidden by swim bottoms or underwear.
So, what are some secrets that can help your tummy tuck scar look its best?
1. Follow Wound Care Instructions Carefully
The exact surgical wounds you have after your tummy tuck will vary based on the type of tummy tuck you get and your plastic surgeon’s technique. However, aftercare instructions are pretty universal.
What is also universal is that people can quickly tire of following their wound care instructions. But doing so, and to a T, is perhaps the most important tummy tuck scar tip you can get.
Proper wound care promotes healing and prevents infection. Speedy, healthy healing allows your scar to remain as straight and smooth as possible. Avoiding infection, in addition to potentially saving your life, helps to prevent the scar from becoming larger, more textured and overall more problematic in appearance. Also, avoid adding products to your wound care routine unless approved by your plastic surgeon.
2. Eat Well, and Stay Hydrated
Health starts from within. While topical products will help, the best thing you can do is give your body a solid foundation for healing. This means having a healthy diet and staying hydrated throughout the day. It is a good idea to start eating better before surgery, as this will help not just with your scar, but your overall healing. You can also set hydration goals each hour to keep yourself on track with water consumption.
3. Keep Moving
While rest is beneficial for healing, you shouldn’t be inactive for the entire recovery process. If your goal is for your scar to heal well, activity is critical. Moving your body helps circulate the blood and encourages the repair of nerve and cellular damage. Simply walking around the house a little can be beneficial for tummy tuck recovery.
Be sure to hold off on strenuous until cleared by your plastic surgeon, but once you are given the green light, steadily get yourself back into a regular exercise routine.
4. Avoid Sun Exposure
You should keep your scars protected from direct sun exposure either by keeping them covered or using sunscreen on your scars. The UV rays from the sun can cause your scars to darken and ultimately make them more noticeable.
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in hand and microsurgery. Dr. Campanile knows that making a lasting change to your appearance is a big decision. His calm, professional approach and deep caring for his patients set a tone that will help you feel confident and relaxed while reviewing your options and learning all about the procedures that can benefit you. Request a consultation today to meet with Dr. Campanile in person.
