A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, requires an incision running the length of your bikini line. This means that once you are healed from a tummy tuck, your scar will run from one hip to the other. Most doctors warn that the scar will look odd, although the swelling and redness will heal. You can aid the healing process and minimize the appearance of your abdominoplasty scar. Scars do not fade away completely, but plastic surgeons take precautions to minimize scarring and make the scar easy to hide under clothing.
Step 1
Take a multivitamin and vitamin E supplement for several weeks before and after your procedure to nourish your skin. Skin needs to be in good condition to heal properly.
Step 2
Apply pressure to the scar while it is healing. Use paper medical tape to compress the scar. Pressure will flatten the scar, making it less prominent.
Step 3
Apply an antibacterial ointment such as Neosporin or Bactarin once or twice a day. These ointments keep out harmful bacteria. Infection can worsen a scar while prevention can lessen scarring.
Step 4
Apply cocoa butter enriched moisturizer to the scar after it has completely closed. Cocoa butter will fade the scar and promote healing.
Step 5
Apply a scar minimizing cream one to two times daily. Scar minimizing creams contain topical vitamins and minerals that are absorbed through the skin to promote faster healing and lightening of scar tissue.
Tips and Warnings
- Always consult your plastic surgeon before starting any anti-scar treatments. Follow all postoperative instructions given by your plastic surgeon to optimize healing. Laser treatments for scar removal may be recommended if topical treatments fail.
Things You'll Need
- Multivitamins
- Vitamin E capsules
- Paper medical tape
- Cocoa butter moisturizer
- Topical scar cream
- Antibacterial ointment
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