Every surgical procedure requires an incision, which leads to a scar. However, over time and with proper care, scars should fade until they closely match the color of the surrounding skin, making them much less noticeable. Miami plastic surgery provider Dr. Ary Krau discusses how to best care for abdominoplasty scars to minimize their appearance.
About the Tummy Tuck Incision
Abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck” surgery, requires a horizontal incision that extends from one hipbone to the other. Although the incision is significant, Dr. Krau strategically places it in the lower abdomen / upper pubic region, where it can be easily concealed by the underwear or bikini line. Please browse before and after gallery to see Dr. Krau’s exceptional work.
Caring for Your Abdominoplasty Scar
Certain factors, including skin tone or lifestyle habits such as smoking, can influence how well a scar heals.
That being said, you can do your part to minimize the look of your abdominoplasty scar by:
- Keeping your incision site out of the sun for at least six months. Going out in the sun without proper protection, such as clothing or a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, for as little as 20 minutes can cause a scar to become red and puffy. Once this happens, it is very hard, if not impossible, to improve the scar’s appearance.
- Allow the incision site to heal fully by resting as much as possible and avoiding any strenuous activity that could tug at the scar.
- Make sure to keep the incision site clean. Use warm, soapy water to wash it and then use a clean towel to gently pat it dry.
- Don’t wear snug-fitting clothing that can rub against and irritate the incision site.
- Once your doctor has told you it is safe to do so, you can try gently massaging the abdominoplasty scar to loosen the underlying scar tissue. Using the pads of your fingers, massage the scar in an up-and-down and side-to-side motion.
Finally, contact Dr. Krau immediately if you notice signs of infections, including severe pain around the incision site, a red and swollen incision site, discharge from the incision site and / or a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Learn More About Abdominoplasty
If you are considering undergoing tummy tuck surgery, we invite you to find out more about the procedure.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Krau to learn more about abdominoplasty, please contact his office by calling (305) 861-6881.