Tummy Tuck Scars and How to Conceal Them

For many women, tummy tucks are a ‘dream come true’. After all, who among us does not want a flatter tummy or less excess skin around the belly? However, like anything else, even the tummy tuck procedure has its drawbacks – tummy tuck scars. Besides the pain and recovery time that tummy tucks entail, the potential scarring is the most dreaded disadvantage. The type of scar you can expect will depend on the specific type of tummy tuck procedure you will undergo. But before you begin to have second thoughts about the surgery, be aware that there are ways to conceal tummy tuck scars so that you can sport your new, flatter tummy without embarrassment or inhibition. Scars from a Complete Tummy Tuck Most people who undergo a tummy tuck procedure go for the whole shebang—a complete tummy tuck, sometimes called a traditional tummy tuck. Although this type of procedure is the most effective for women who have a lot of excess fat or skin to get rid of, it can also leave significant tummy tuck scars. The surgery consists of an incision just above the pubic hair, usually extending across the abdomen, as far as an inch or two beyond the hip line. Typically, the more fat and skin there is to be removed, the longer the scar. In many cases, another cut around the belly button is sometimes necessary to strengthen muscles in the abdomen and remove additional skin and fat from the upper part of the belly. Scars from a Mini Tummy Tuck Although a mini tummy tuck is sometimes referred to as the scarless tummy tuck, scarring nevertheless occurs but on a much smaller scale than those resulting from complete tummy tuck procedures. Women with a relatively small amount of unwanted fat or excess skin are ideal candidates for a mini tuck. In addition to having a shorter scar, the mini tuck has the added benefit of requiring just one incision; that is, there is no incision made around the bellybutton area to worry about. Scars from an Endoscopic Tummy Tuck If you have just a little fat to remove and no excess skin, then you may be a good candidate for an endoscopic tummy tuck procedure, which leaves the least amount of scarring because it requires minimal incisions. An endoscopic tummy tuck involves making cuts only wide enough to insert a small tube into the abdomen in order to suck out excess fat. Although there are obvious benefits to this type of tummy tuck, it is not recommended for obese individuals or those who require the removal of excess skin as a result of pregnancy or rapid weight loss. Concealing Scars No matter what type of scar you end up with, there are ways to minimize them and conceal them. In addition to proper wound and scar care immediately following surgery, you can consider the use of silicone dressings for scar therapy. Studies have shown that such dressings help reduce the appearance of scars after the wound has completely healed. Other concealing methods include airbrush makeup and tattoos for tummy tuck scars; both have become quite popular. Airbrush Makeup Airbrush makeup should be applied by a professional. Although it provides only temporary concealment of your scar, it is the ideal solution for special occasions such as a pool party or beach trip. It means you can enjoy yourself and show off your new body without feeling embarrassed about your scar. Tattoos for Tummy Tuck Scars A permanent method of concealment comes in the form of tattoos for tummy tuck scars. Many women have become quite creative with tattoos, and find them extremely more attractive than their scarring. However, before you consider getting a tattoo to cover your scar, you must let the incision site heal completely. You may even want to consult your doctor on the matter, just to be on the safe side. A Last Word There are many things you should consider before undergoing a tummy tuck procedure. Although the resulting scar is an important factor, your health and safety come first. Talk to your plastic surgeon during your initial consultation, and make sure all of your concerns, aesthetic and otherwise, are thoroughly addressed before you decide to undergo the procedure.