Everyone opting for a tummy tuck wants a flat, washboard
abdomen without a scar. This is not possible because along with the flat tummy
comes a scar. Many surgeons try to reassure prospective patients that the scar
will be very low and the person will be able to flaunt a low cut bikini.
Patients routinely come to my office with the impression that they can get a mini
tummy tuck and minimize their scar. When
it comes to a tummy tuck, the surgeon will try to get you the best results, but
the patient needs to understand that there will
be a scar, and its length will depend on many factors.
The length of the scar is determined mainly by how much
excess skin the patient has and how much fat is in and around the abdomen. If you have a lot of excess skin that goes
from hip to hip, you can anticipate having a scar that goes from hip to hip or
maybe a little bit longer to avoid dog ears.
I always try to put the scar as low as possible, but again this is going
to be determined by the technique of the full tummy tuck that we must follow in
order to provide what you need. The
patient needs to be emotionally and psychologically prepared to have a long
scar.
Surgeons can give you a good result including a flatter,
tighter abdomen and a very nice shape, but the overall result depends on a
number of anatomical factors that you possess. Consult with your surgeon. Discuss
with him your concerns regarding the location of the scar and the different
types of tummy tuck. Together you can
decide which technique will provide you with the best shape possible.