How Long Does It Take for the Tummy Tuck Scar to Start Opening Up?

A tummy tuck typically leaves two scars: one around the belly button and a second horizontal scar placed low enough to be hidden by clothing.

These scars depend on your individual anatomical features such as abdominal circumference, trunk height, umbilicus position, and presence of stretch marks.

In my practice, the preoperative consultation is a critical part of the surgery. Detailed planning between the patient and surgeon can offer useful surgical maneuver options to ensure well-hidden tummy tuck scars, which also affects the healing time of the scars in the postoperative phase.

What type of products help with the appearance of tummy tuck scars?

Scars will gradually fade over the course of a year after surgery. It is important to protect them from direct sunlight. You can provide protection with clothing or sunscreen. Silicone scar creams or silicone scar sheets can also be used.

However, staying in contact with your surgeon and following their recommendations throughout the healing process is your best option.

Recovery Time for Full Tummy Tuck

Recovery time varies between individuals and depends on the extent of your tummy tuck surgery and your overall physical condition.

In many cases, you can resume most of your daily routine, including light exercises, after a few weeks.

You might not see the final results of your tummy tuck for several months, but the swelling should reduce within a few weeks.

Swelling After Tummy Tuck

Depending on the extent of your tummy tuck and how much liposuction you had at the same time, it is common to experience swelling after the surgery. Most patients experience significant swelling during the first two weeks, but most of it will improve after 6 weeks.

On the other hand, the last 10% of the swelling may take about 6 months to resolve. Therefore, patients can expect to see approximate results 6 weeks after surgery.

In short, you can expect your swelling to last between 3 to 6 months.

Additionally, if you had liposuction at the same time, tummy tuck recovery might take a little longer.

Is Groin Swelling and Pain Normal After Tummy Tuck?

Groin swelling and pain after surgery is an expected phase. Gravity causes the swelling to settle in the general area and legs, especially if you stand for long periods.

If you notice any fever or redness, it is advisable to contact your surgeon. However, the swelling should disappear after a few weeks.