A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. It can also help to tighten weakened or separated abdominal muscles. The goal of a tummy tuck is to create a smoother, flatter stomach and improve body contour. As with any surgery, there will be scarring as a result of the incisions made during the procedure.
Definition
tummy tuck scars are the marks left behind after the incision is closed at the end of surgery. They are typically located in the lower abdomen and can range in length from just below the belly button to just above the pubic area.
Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery
The type of tummy tuck surgery performed will affect the size and shape of the scar. A traditional tummy tuck involves an incision made from hipbone to hipbone across the lower abdomen. An extended abdominoplasty requires a longer incision along with additional incisions around the navel and sides of the abdomen. A fleur-de-lis (FDL) tummy tuck requires three incisions: one down the center of the abdomen and two vertical incisions extending downward on either side from this central line. The length and position of each incision will determine how visible each scar may be post-operatively.
Main Incision
The main incision for a tummy tuck is typically placed in the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. It is usually horizontal and runs from hip to hip. The length of the incision depends on the amount of skin that needs to be removed, and can range from a few inches to several feet. Generally speaking, the larger the area that needs to be treated, the longer the incision will be.
Position
The position of the incision helps determine how visible it will be once healed. In order to minimize visibility, surgeons typically place it as low as possible in order to hide it beneath underwear or swimwear. It may also be placed slightly higher if needed in order to accommodate a more extensive procedure.
Length
The length of the incision is determined by how much skin needs to be removed during surgery. If only a small amount of excess skin needs to be removed, then a shorter incision can be used. For larger areas, a longer incision may be necessary in order to provide adequate access for removal of excess skin and fat tissue.
Optimizing Appearance
Once surgery is complete, there are various methods that can help optimize scar appearance and reduce visibility over time. These include avoiding direct sun exposure and tanning beds while healing; using silicone sheets or other topical treatments; massaging scar tissue; and wearing compression garments during recovery (as directed by your surgeon). Additionally, some surgeons may recommend laser treatments or other cosmetic procedures after healing has taken place in order to further improve scar appearance.
Extended Abdominoplasty
Weight Loss
An extended abdominoplasty is a type of tummy tuck surgery that involves making an incision from hip to hip, and removing excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. This procedure is typically recommended for those who have lost a significant amount of weight or have experienced significant changes in their body due to pregnancy or age. It can also be used to improve the appearance of stretch marks and other areas of loose skin on the abdomen.
Incision Length and Position
The incision for an extended abdominoplasty is typically longer than that used for a traditional tummy tuck, extending from one hipbone across to the other. The exact position of the incision will depend on the individual’s anatomy and desired outcome, but it is usually placed within a few inches of the pubic bone so as to minimize visible scarring. In some cases, additional incisions may be made around the belly button in order to remove excess skin in this area as well.
Post-Operative Aftercare
After an extended abdominoplasty procedure, patients should expect some degree of swelling and discomfort in the abdominal area. Pain medications may be prescribed to help manage any discomfort during recovery, and patients should follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully in order to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Additionally, patients should avoid strenuous activity for at least six weeks after surgery in order to allow sufficient time for healing.
FDL Tummy Tuck
A fdl tummy tuck, or Fleur-de-lis Abdominoplasty, is a more extensive form of tummy tuck surgery that involves making an incision from hip to hip across the abdomen and another incision around the belly button. This type of surgery is often used for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and need to remove excess skin.
Scarring Extent
The scarring associated with a FDL Tummy Tuck can be extensive due to the larger incisions needed for this procedure. The scar will usually start at one side of the hip and extend across the abdomen to the other side, ending in a vertical line near the belly button. The exact length and position of the scar will depend on how much skin needs to be removed and where it needs to be removed from.
Post-Operative Care
After undergoing a FDL Tummy Tuck, it is important for patients to follow their doctor’s post-operative instructions closely in order to ensure proper healing and minimize scarring. Following these instructions may include wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities, taking medications as prescribed, following up with checkups, and keeping any wounds clean and dry.
Silicone Sheets for Scar Optimization
In addition to following post-operative care instructions, patients can also use silicone sheets over the scar area in order to optimize its appearance. Silicone sheets are non-invasive products that are applied directly onto the skin in order to reduce redness and help flatten raised scars. They can also help reduce itching and discomfort associated with scarring while promoting better healing.
Overall, FDL Tummy Tucks are an effective way for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight to remove excess skin while minimizing scarring as much as possible through proper post-operative care and silicone sheet usage. It is important that patients understand what they are getting into before undergoing such an invasive procedure so they can make sure they get the best results possible.
Sun Exposure and Tanning Beds
Sun exposure and tanning beds should be avoided for the duration of the healing process following a tummy tuck. The ultraviolet radiation from the sun can damage the incision site, leading to discoloration and scarring. It is important to avoid sun exposure for at least one year after surgery.
Avoidance of Sun Exposure and Tanning Beds
It is recommended that patients avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds during the recovery period after a tummy tuck. Any activity that increases your core temperature, such as exercise or hot tubs, should also be avoided until full healing has occurred. If you must go outside during this time, it is important to wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, as well as a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun’s rays.
Application of Sunscreen Once Fully Healed
Once you have fully healed from your tummy tuck procedure, it is important to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when going outdoors or spending time in direct sunlight. This will help protect your skin from further damage caused by UV radiation. Additionally, it is important to reapply sunscreen every two hours if you are swimming or sweating heavily.
By avoiding sun exposure and tanning beds during the recovery period following a tummy tuck, patients can help ensure optimal results with minimal scarring. Additionally, applying sunscreen once fully healed will help protect against future damage caused by UV radiation.