How can an abdominoplasty scar be reduced?
Have you had an abdominoplasty, or are you considering one? This cosmetic surgery procedure can restore a flat stomach, but the incisions leave scars around the navel and above the pubis. It's important to take care of your abdominoplasty scar to allow it to fade gradually. If its appearance bothers you, your surgeon can suggest various solutions, such as laser scar removal.
Scars following abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen: damaged, distended skin is removed and healthy skin tightened. The procedure is suitable for both men and women, following major weight loss or multiple pregnancies.
Abdominoplasty leaves a residual scar of varying size, depending on the extent of the removal. The scar is located around the umbilicus and at the level of the pubic hair. Its estimated dimensions are specified by the surgeon before the operation. The scar above the pubis is usually hidden by underwear or swimwear.
What is the healing process like after abdominoplasty?
The healing of an abdominal surgical wound follows a number of stages, each of which is essential to ensure the formation of a quality scar.
Immediately after the procedure and for about 2 weeks, the scar is quite thin. The skin cells multiply and produce new dermal components.
Then, over a period of around 6 months, the scar becomes deeper and more inflammatory. Redness, swelling, pain and itching are common discomforts.
After 6 months and up to two years, the scar will become more discreet (whitening) and fade over time, until it becomes almost invisible.
Tips to help your abdominoplasty scar heal properly
You can support the healing process by following your surgeon's post-operative recommendations. They will limit the risk of abnormalities and improve the appearance of scars:
- Carry out the indicated treatments and protect the wound with dressings. Silicone dressings are particularly effective in reducing itching.
- Use a support garment to reduce tension on the incisions and reduce swelling. Avoid strenuous exercise, and wait two months before resuming any sporting activity.
- Remember to moisturize the skin with a vegetable oil or a suitable cream recommended by your surgeon.
- Once the scabs have disappeared, massage the scar regularly (twice a day) to soften tissues, reduce adhesions and stimulate microcirculation.
- Protect the scar from the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun for the first year, and then use a minimum SPF 50 cream.
- Avoid weight changes, as they can alter the appearance of your abdominal scar.
Healing problems and unsightly scars
Some patients are more prone to the risk of difficult scarring, which may be linked to their phototype, the fact that they smoke or a genetic abnormality. Complications may arise during the healing process, resulting in unsightly scars. Some scars may have a bulging relief, increased width, a reddish or brownish appearance and cause itching or pain.
What treatments are available to reduce scarring?
When a scar is too prominent and becomes a source of discomfort for the patient, it is possible to intervene to reduce it. Different techniques can be used, depending on whether the scar is recent or older.
A surgical revision may be performed six months or more after the operation if the scar is too long and wide. This involves removing the scar tissue, suturing the skin edges and consequently starting a new healing process.
If the scar is older, laser treatment is the way to go. Fractional CO2 laser treatment offers good results in smoothing the skin and reducing scarring. Sessions last no more than an hour and should be spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. There are some contraindications to this laser treatment, which will be discussed during the consultation with the doctor.
Take advice from the doctors and plastic surgeons at Clinique du Lac if you want to get rid of your scars following an abdominoplasty or other operation.