Will I Have Noticeable Scarring after Tummy Tuck?

Scarring is a common and understandable concern among Dr. Joshua Greenwald’s tummy tuck patients. Many don’t know what to expect, or worry that they will be left with a very long and noticeable scar. To clear up any confusion or anxiety, our New York City plastic surgeon, Dr. Greenwald, explains what you should know about scarring after tummy tuck in this post.

Tummy Tuck Scarring Considerations

All surgeries, including tummy tuck, leave scars along the incision line(s). Scarring is the body’s natural response to a wound. Tummy tuck usually involves two incisions: one on the lower abdomen and one around the belly button. Many factors contribute to how these incision lines heal and the scars they leave.

It is important to understand that the abdominal incision is placed very low on the abdomen — right above the pubic hairline. Resulting scarring is low enough to be concealed beneath a bathing suit bottom or underwear.

If you would like to see just how low the incision can be placed, bring your favorite bikini bottoms to your consultation with Dr. Greenwald. He can draw out the planned incision on your lower abdomen and discuss whether you find it acceptable. Then, the two of you can decide if you would like the incision to be re-adjusted.

The belly button incision can be created within the natural folds and creases in the skin. By nature, scarring is less noticeable in this area.

Something else to consider about tummy tuck scars is that they fade significantly over time. It may look very noticeable right after surgery but heal and fade with time. Following Dr. Greenwald’s post-op instructions is key to helping scarring fade.

However, there are other elements that affect how the scarring fades: some patients are simply prone to noticeable hypertrophic or keloid scarring because of their genetics, skin tone or skin quality. Smokers may see more noticeable scarring than non-smokers.

One final note: almost every patient is happy to trade an improved abdominal contour and shape for the scars. As you contemplate tummy tuck, ask yourself what is more worth it to you: a more beautiful body shape or scars that can be easily hidden beneath a panty or bikini bottom?

Schedule a Tummy Tuck Consultation

To learn more about tummy tuck surgery and scarring, book a consultation with trusted New York City plastic surgeon Joshua Greenwald. Call or email our office today.

Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.