Does skin removal surgery leave scars?

Incision placement

During excess skin removal surgery, incisions are carefully placed in areas where they will be least visible. The exact location depends on the specific procedure:

• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): The incision is usually placed low on the abdomen, just above the pubic area, where it can be hidden by underwear or swimwear.

• Arm lift (brachioplasty): The incision is placed along the inner side of the upper arm, making it less visible when your arms are down.

• Thigh lift: The incision is made along the groin crease or the inner thigh, so it’s mostly hidden by underwear or shorts.

• Breast lift: The incision is often made around the areola, vertically down the breast, and sometimes along the breast crease (the “anchor” technique).

• Back lift: Incisions are typically placed along the natural folds of the back, making them less noticeable.

These incision sites are chosen to minimise visible scarring, especially when wearing everyday clothing, swimwear, or lingerie.

Scarring and healing

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after surgery. Initially, scars will appear red, raised, or firm, but over time, they fade to a flatter, lighter appearance. Here’s how the healing process typically unfolds:

• 0-6 weeks after surgery: Scars will be red, swollen, and slightly raised as the skin begins to heal. You may experience itching or mild discomfort around the incision site.

• 6-12 weeks after surgery: Scars may still look pink or red, but swelling starts to reduce. The scar begins to flatten, and the skin’s texture starts to normalise.

• 3-6 months after surgery: Scars continue to fade as collagen production stabilises. Proper scar care can help improve their appearance at this stage.

• 12+ months after surgery: By one year, most scars are flatter, lighter, and far less noticeable.

How to care for your scars

Taking care of your scars is essential to ensure they heal properly and become less visible over time. Here’s how to care for them:

• Keep incisions clean and dry: Follow your surgeon's instructions on how to clean the area and avoid exposing it to bacteria.

• Apply scar creams or silicone sheets: These products can reduce scar thickness, flatten the scar, and improve its texture.

• Massage the scar: Once healed, gently massaging the scar can help break down dense scar tissue and promote flexibility in the skin.

• Protect from sun exposure: Scars exposed to the sun can darken or become more noticeable. Apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily.

With consistent care, most scars become less noticeable within a year. If scars remain prominent, additional treatments like laser therapy or micro-needling can further reduce their appearance.

What to avoid

To prevent scars from becoming worse or more noticeable, avoid these common mistakes:

• Sun exposure: UV rays can darken scars, making them more visible. Always apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) to the scarred area.

• Scratching or picking: Avoid scratching the scar, as this can delay healing and lead to infection or worse scarring.

• Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow, slowing down the healing process and increasing the risk of thick, raised scars.

• Skipping follow-up appointments: Your surgeon can spot issues with scar healing and offer solutions early. Attend all follow-up checkups.

• Over-exertion: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity that could put stress on the incisions. Stretching or pulling the skin too soon can worsen scars.

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Hide the scars

If you want to make scars less noticeable, here are some easy ways to hide them:

• Wear high-waisted clothing: Tummy tuck scars are often positioned low, so high-waisted swimsuits, leggings, and underwear can hide them completely.

• Use concealer or body makeup: Special waterproof makeup for scars can be applied to the area to even out skin tone and conceal the scar.

• Choose well-placed tattoos: Some people choose to get tattoos to artistically cover scars, turning them into part of a design.

• Wear long-sleeve or short-sleeve styles: Arm lift scars are positioned on the inner arm, so short-sleeve tops can hide them.

• Use scar-minimising patches or tapes: These are silicone-based patches that help reduce scar visibility and can be worn discreetly.

These methods give you control over how visible your scars are in everyday life.

Scar care guidance with Adoreal

Adoreal is here to support you every step of the way — from choosing a clinic to understanding how to care for post-surgery scars. With Adoreal, you get access to trusted clinics, expert advice, and personalised guidance on how to minimise scarring after excess skin removal.

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