Tummy Tuck Incision Locations and Post-Op Scars

During the tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) consultation process, the team at Jefferson Plastic Surgery takes time to discuss issues related to incisions and scarring. This allows patients to have realistic expectations about the procedure while helping us minimize unsightly scars and plan the surgery accordingly.

Dr. Steven E. Copit, Dr. Patrick J. Greaney, Jr., and Dr. Matthew P. Jenkins would like to cover some of the basics with regard to tummy tuck incision locations and scars. We can go over these topics in more detail during your visit to our Philadelphia, PA plastic surgery center.

Traditional Tummy Tuck Incision Locations

During a traditional tummy tuck surgery, the following three incisions are made:

• A circular incision around the belly button
• A horizontal incision from hipbone to hipbone along the lower abdomen
• A vertical incision connecting the previous two incisions

The combination of these three incisions creates an anchor shape, which is ideal for removing excess tissue and fat, excising excess skin, and tightening the remaining skin of the lower stomach area. Sometimes the vertical incision is not required to achieve body contouring results.

Extended Tummy Tuck Incision Locations

For patients who experience major weight loss and require more substantial revision of their abdominal region, an extended tummy tuck will be required. This type of surgery involves the following three incisions:

• A circular incision around the belly button
• A lateral incision that spans from the back of the hipbone, around the sides, and along the lower abdomen all the way to the back of the opposite hipbone
• A vertical incision connecting the previous two incisions

Through this larger set of incisions, more skin can be removed and the lower abdominal area can be tightened and properly redraped.

Mini Tummy Tuck Incision Locations

For just minor revision of the abdominal area, a mini tummy tuck is performed. This typically involves just a single lateral incision along the lower abdomen that does not need to span from hipbone to hipbone. This small incision is sufficient to revise the lower stomach area and enhance overall body contour.

How Visible Are Post-Surgical Scars?

The scars following tummy tuck surgery will be noticeable on the abdomen given their size and location. That said, these scars can be concealed by many bathing suits, bottoms, and undergarments.

With proper care in the years to come, patients can help reduce the prominence of these scars and help them gradually fade over time.

Recovery Tips After Tummy Tuck Surgery to Minimize Scars

In order to minimize the severity of scars immediately after a tummy tuck, it’s best to focus on rest and recovery. Wear surgical compression garments as directed, and be sure to avoid tobacco products and alcoholic beverages. The compression garment offers support to healing tissues, while abstaining from tobacco and alcohol consumption avoid infections and ensures a faster healing time.

Patients are encouraged to walk just a little bit each day as they are healing in order to promote circulation and prevent the formation of blood clots in the legs. Attend all follow-up visits with your plastic surgeon as scheduled.

Long-Term Aftercare of Tummy Tuck Scars

In the weeks and months ahead, patients should continue to eat healthy, remain active, stay hydrated, and moisturize regularly. If scarring is pronounced, there are over-the-counter, non-surgical, and surgical scar revision options we can explore in more detail.

Learn More About Tummy Tuck Surgery

For more information about tummy tuck surgery and how it can benefit you, be sure to contact our skilled team of cosmetic surgeons. The team at Jefferson Plastic Surgery is here to help.