When you’re ready to reclaim your body after pregnancy or weight loss, the thought of scarring after mommy makeover surgery can be daunting. Read on to better understand the type and extent of mommy makeover scarring you should expect based on your customized combination of procedures—and check out our tips for minimizing their appearance.
Types of Mommy Makeover Scars
The reality of cosmetic surgery is that whenever an incision is made, it results in a scar. The location of your incisions and your plastic surgeon’s technique will affect your mommy makeover scars. What will your scars look like, and what can you expect? This depends on which mommy makeover procedures you choose. Let’s explore further.
Breast Augmentation Scars
These scars vary depending on the incision technique. We can perform breast augmentation using an inframammary incision hidden in the fold under the breast, a periareolar incision around the nipple, or a transaxillary incision under the armpit. These are all well-concealed locations for incisions.
If your procedure includes a breast lift, Dr. Nimtz makes a “lollipop” or “anchor” incision to lift sagging breasts. These incisions are often more noticeable initially. Fortunately, breast augmentation and breast lift scars fade over time, and you can easily conceal them with a bikini top or bra.
Breast Reduction Scars
Some mommy makeover patients wish to reduce the size of large breasts to enhance their comfort and quality of life. During a breast reduction, Dr. Nimtz makes incisions on the breasts to remove excess skin and fat and reposition the nipple. This usually requires reducing the areola before suturing the incision. While your incision lines will be permanently visible, they’ll fade over time.
Tummy Tuck Scars
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal region using an incision that runs horizontally from hip to hip. Your plastic surgeon may also make a second incision around the belly button.
If you have excess skin below the belly button only, you may be a candidate for a mini tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck warrants a shorter horizontal incision than a full tummy tuck.
For both full and mini tummy tucks, Dr. Nimtz places your horizontal incisions as low as possible so that your underwear or swimsuit bottoms hide any resulting scars. The scar around your belly button is hidden within the folds of your navel. Tummy tuck scars fade and flatten over time.
Some patients are ideal candidates for a reverse tummy tuck, which addresses skin laxity above the belly button. During a reverse tummy tuck, Dr. Nimtz conceals your incisions under the breast to avoid visible scarring on the abdomen. The second photo in the carousel below is an excellent example of a reverse tummy tuck.
Liposuction Scars
This procedure uses small incisions and, therefore, results in minimal scarring. While there’s no such thing as “scar-free” liposuction, the evidence left behind by this minimally invasive procedure is barely perceptible to the naked eye. Again, a skilled and capable plastic surgeon will make incisions that minimize scarring.
Mommy Makeover Scar Care
Diligent aftercare can minimize your scars’ appearance. Products like silicone sheets, gels, and medical-grade skin creams can flatten and fade scars, transforming them from a purplish color to a more natural skin tone when used consistently. These products may promote optimal healing and scar reduction in conjunction with your surgeon’s post-op protocol.
How Long Until Mommy Makeover Scars Fade?
Every patient’s mommy makeover recovery varies; scars can take several months to a few years to soften and fade. Initially, your scars will appear red and raised, but they should flatten and lighten over time. The final appearance of your scars depends on factors like your skin type, genetics, and how well you follow our aftercare instructions.
We encourage you to use these aftercare tips to minimize the appearance of your scars:
- Protect your incisions by following your surgeon’s wound care instructions, using sunscreen, and wearing compression garments.
- Get plenty of rest to minimize strain on your incision sites.
- Stay hydrated to keep your skin supple while it heals.
- Eat a well-balanced diet because nutrient-rich foods promote optimal healing.
- Avoid smoking and other unhealthy habits that inhibit healing and potentially increase your risk for scarring.
While rare, some patients may experience abnormal scarring, such as keloid or hypertrophic scars. If you detect any abnormal scarring, we encourage you to contact us to explore your scar revision treatment options, such as laser therapy.
The Importance of Choosing a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
A complex combination surgery like a mommy makeover requires the credentials, skill, and artistry of a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive body contouring expertise. A top plastic surgeon can minimize your incisions and ensure they are strategically placed and well concealed. As you meet with and select your mommy makeover surgeon, ensure they have high patient ratings and a robust gallery of mommy makeover before-and-after photos, including the combination of procedures you’re targeting.
Still Have Questions?
If you have additional questions or concerns about mommy makeover scarring, we encourage you to arrange a personalized consultation at our office. Please request a consultation using the online form or call us at (859) 277-9435 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nimtz.
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