Tummy Tuck Scarring and Other Complications

An abdominoplasty, otherwise known as a tummy tuck is a cosmetic procedure in which the excess tissues, fats and skin from the abdomen are trimmed off to present a much improved appearance. This operation comes in a variety of techniques and methods, depending on the extent of the operation. All methods are highly invasive and may require some weeks for the patient to fully recover.

The procedure entails having incisions made on the abdominal area through which the technique is then implemented. There are methods that require a longer and single incision side to side to expose the fat and tissue that need trimming while some techniques use shorter incisions. The length of the tummy tuck cuts is often dependent on the extent of the improvement that the individual wishes to be done to the body.

Possible Side Effects or Complications

Scarring is one of the possible side effects of the operation. The deep incision necessary for the operation may result to visible scarring. Some doctors like make the cuts in places where they are not so obvious but some scars become raised or red after a few weeks. The reason why some scars become more pronounced is due mainly to the skin type of the person. The depth of the cuts made by the surgeon can also be a factor in what kind of scar comes from it. The length of healing can also factor in the appearance of the scar. If the incision heals too quickly, it is likely to become a visible scar.

Another possible side effect from a tummy tuck is scarring that is slightly deformed. Instead of being raised, some scars heal too tightly and appear reddish and fibrous. This is similar to keloid scars but may be painful when the individual exerts some effort in the muscles underneath it.

Discoloration is another side effect on the skin due to the procedure. In some people the discoloration can be a shade or two lighter or darker than the person's normal skin tone. Most cases like these resolve themselves as the discoloration eventually fades away while others are retained. Some doctors advise taking some vitamin supplements to boost antioxidant presence in the body. This can even out a person's skin tone.

These epidermal complications are just a few that can plague the patient after a tummy tuck. Less than half of the people who undergo the procedure have visible scarring while others' scars eventually fade away.