Tummy Tuck Scars

Tummy tuck can be defined as a surgical procedure which is used to remove excess of fat from the abdomen. It is also referred to as abdominoplasty. In this process, incision is made on the abdomen, to get rid of the extra fat and skin from the region and then muscles of the area tightens. The surgeons ensure that the surgical incision are made in such a way that the scars of the tummy tuck are easily hidden. The severity of the tummy tuck scar largely depends on the extent of fat and skin that had to be removed. If it is a mini or partial surgery, then the scar is not so deep. But in case of a complete tummy tuck, the scars are wide and visible. Tummy tuck scars are most visible in the lower part of the abdomen which extend from one side of the hip to the other. It is quite noticeable in the navel region as well. The condition of the scars is the worst in the first six months after the surgery, and then they start improving. Slowly, they become flat and the color starts fading too.

Tips to Minimize Tummy Tuck Scarring

Unfortunately, there are no means that can help to avoid tummy tuck scars. However, if you take certain measures beforehand, then it can help to lessen the scarring tissue. They are as follows:

• Discuss the issue of scars with your surgeon. This will help you to have realistic expectations after the surgery. Your doctor will also try to keep the scar as low as possible. Thus the scar will not be visible when you wear swimsuits.
• In order to bring about improvement in the skin condition, start taking capsules of multi vitamin and vitamin E. You should start these medicines two months before the surgery. On a good quality skin, damaging effect of the surgery will be minimum.
• If you have the habit of smoking, you should quit it a few weeks before the surgery. This is because cigarettes and other tobacco products prevent the oxygen from reaching the skin cells. This will delay the healing process and can leave behind bad scars.
• Follow a healthy diet that can boost the immune system which in turn will speed up the recovery process. Also maintain a good personal hygiene to prevent any infection post surgery.

How to Get Rid of Tummy Tuck Scars?

After you are released from the hospital, post surgery care is very essential for proper healing of the scar. Hence, strictly follow the instructions given by your surgeon for this purpose. If you take some steps during the recovery time then the scars will start fading away fast.

Cortisone Creams: During the healing process of the scars after tummy tuck surgery, doctors prescribe cortisone creams for the purpose of tummy tuck scar treatment. This keep the inflammation in check and thus prevent worsening of the scar.

Retinol Cream: When the scar is still red, you can apply retinol cream on before going to bed. It is rich in vitamin A which promotes cell growth. It activates the collagen lying under the skin and help to make the skin smoother. Thus the scar will be less visible.

Natural Remedies: When the scars have healed up and the time to fade out has arrived. You can massage the area with olive oil and aloe vera gel. Mix the two ingredients and rub it over the affected area with vigorous strokes. It will improve the blood circulation and the skin will get better nourishment to heal the scar. Cocoa butter is also highly effective in reducing the appearance of the scars.

Tanning Beds: Tanning the scars on a tanning bed can bring significant improvement to the scarred area. For this, you have to cover up your face and rest of the body and tan the scarred part only. At the end, you will get wonderful results.

Whichever technique you follow to get rid of scars, one thing you should know is that it will take a lot of time before you get the desired results. Hence, you should be patient and do not take any hasty measures to quicken the process which may have adverse effects on the skin and make the scar more prominent. Till then, wear such swimsuits that can cover up the marks. An excellent way of hiding tummy tuck scars which have started fading is to make a temporary tattoo on them.