How Noticeable Will My Scars Be After A Tummy Tuck?

Even among the vast array of impressive plastic surgery procedures available today, the tummy tuck continues to stand out as one of the most transformative and beneficial procedures. With its ability to sculpt a stunning new physique, it is easy to see why the tummy tuck remains at the top of the list year after year. The tummy tuck is popular and is a highly sought-after procedure by men and women alike in Beverly Hills. and award-winning plastic surgeon, Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, and the professional team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills are proud to offer patients the opportunity to finally achieve their ultimate aesthetic goals through tummy tuck and other exciting surgical and nonsurgical treatment options.

As with any plastic surgery procedure, one of the first questions many patients have is what will the scar look like? Dr. Katzen understands the importance of minimizing scarring as well as maintaining a flawless look. Dr. Katzen takes great care to minimize visible scarring with each and every surgery. If you are considering having a tummy tuck, but are not sure what degree of scarring to expect, it is helpful to first understand more about the tummy tuck, including how it works, where the incisions are placed, and all of the different options available.

What does a tummy tuck do?

While tummy tuck surgery can be a highly beneficial procedure for both men and women of all ages and walks of life, two of the most common groups of patients who pursue tummy tuck are women who have had children and men and women who have lost significant weight. The tummy tuck is primarily a skin and fat removal surgery, men and women who have excess, stretched out, or sagging abdominal skin are ideal candidates for the procedure. Oftentimes, excess skin is the result of large-volume weight loss, pregnancy, or the aging process alone. In addition to helping patients achieve a slimmer, tighter, more appealing abdominal contour through skin removal, the tummy tuck is also used to tighten abdominal muscles which may have separated during pregnancy or weight fluctuation. Central abdominal muscle separation is a condition referred to as diastasis recti.

How does a tummy tuck work?

During a tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Katzen will carefully make an incision in a predetermined location, usually slightly above the pubic region. The length and placement of the incisions can vary from patient to patient depending on the type of tummy tuck being performed and the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed. Usually, Dr. Katzen will tighten and reinforce the abdominal muscles, bringing them together to help eliminate a pooch or pouch appearance that is often exaggerated in patients with diastasis recti. In some cases, Dr. Katzen will use liposuction to remove deposits of stubborn fat and further enhance a patient’s results. Once the excess skin has been excised, the remaining abdominal skin will be pulled tightly over the newly sculpted abdomen and secured with sutures, leaving the patient with a smooth, trim, gorgeous new look.

How long is tummy tuck healing time?

The recovery time after a tummy tuck will depend on a variety of factors, including the patient’s overall health, the type of tummy tuck performed, and whether or not any additional procedures were performed. For example, many women choose to combine a breast augmentation with their tummy tuck as part of a mommy makeover, while weight loss patients may pair their tummy tuck with an arm lift or thigh lift for a full body transformation. More extensive combination procedures may extend the recovery times.

In general, tummy tuck patients can expect to have some swelling, discomfort, and limited mobility for the first week after surgery. Most patients are able to resume light daily activities after about two weeks. If you have a sitting job, you should be able to return to work at about two weeks. If you have a physically demanding job, you should plan to return to work at about three to four weeks. It may take several more weeks or months until patients are able to resume additional routines, including exercise. While preliminary improvements may be visible immediately, the full results of a tummy tuck can take up to six months to become apparent, as the abdominal swelling resolves and the scars begin to fade.

Where are the scars after tummy tuck?

The placement and appearance of tummy tuck scars can vary based on the type of procedure performed: a mini, full, high-lateral tension, vertical, inverted-T, fleur-de-lis reverse or extended tummy tuck. Regardless of which tummy tuck technique is used, Dr. Katzen takes exceptional care to make thin, precise incisions in areas that can be easily camouflaged by the natural lines of the body or concealed under reasonable clothing and swimsuits. In a large number of cases, tummy tuck incisions are placed just above the pubic line and under the c-section scar. The caring and knowledgeable team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills will also provide recommendations to encourage proper, quick healing for a minimally visible scar.

Most importantly, the vast majority of tummy tuck patients agree that the dramatic improvement in their physique is well worth the scar.

Am I a good candidate for tummy tuck in Beverly Hills?

Most men and women who are in good health, at a stable weight, do not smoke, and have sagging or loose abdominal skin can be considered good candidates for a tummy tuck procedure. However, it is essential that patients select a highly qualified, experienced, skillful plastic surgeon, like Dr. Katzen to ensure the best possible results.

If you are interested in learning more about how a tummy tuck can help you transform your body – and your life – call J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills to schedule your one-on-one consultation with and award-winning plastic surgeon Dr. J. Timothy Katzen.

Call today to schedule a consultation. Physical or virtual consultations can be arranged. Options include FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, or WhatsApp virtual consultation. Call Dr. Katzen today for your consultation to achieve the tummy of your dreams.

BEFORE AND AFTER