Stitches and scars after abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty is considered a very effective plastic surgery to achieve an aesthetic ideal in the abdominal area. But along with a beautiful abdomen, the patient also receives the scars that remain after surgery. Unfortunately, scarring can not be avoided completely, because during this type of intervention, there are many incisions and large amount of tissue is removed. But in the power of the doctor and the patient to make the postoperative traces as little visible as possible.

After abdominal plasty, shrinking tissues, drainage, and muscle contractions result in scars that do not heal in the most favorable conditions. To minimize the consequences, abdominoplasty sutures are made of specialized material. The surgeon also uses special stitching techniques.

How sutures form

The formation of scar tissue is the body's natural response to damage caused during surgery. Since abdominoplasty is a cavity surgery, it is impossible to avoid damage during surgery. The tissues traumatized during the intervention force the body to trigger an inflammatory response and start producing collagen in the damaged areas.

At the moment of intense collagen production, a red, highly visible mark is formed on the skin, rising above the level of the rest of the skin. After the damaged tissues begin to fuse together, the excess collagen gradually disappears over time. A new, normal scar begins to form, which will remain in place of the incisions. If abdominoplasty left a noticeable scar, it means that the process of scarring was disrupted for some reason (suppuration, high tissue tension, hereditary predisposition, etc.).

Breast Scars.

One of the most attractive parts of the female body often also suffers from all kinds of scars. These can be striae, stretch marks or mammoplasty scars. Removing them is not always painless or safe. The way out is to cover them with a beautiful tattoo! The most popular option is all kinds of flowers and plants.

@sashatattooingstudios

Depending on where exactly the scar is located, you can "move" the tattoo sketch and try it on with the master. Floral motifs are popular, but not trivial: it really looks beautiful and feminine. Besides, a competent master will be able to draw you such a sketch, which no other girl has.

@karina_scawoottt

The place under the breast is quite delicate, so "beating" a tattoo can be, to put it mildly, unpleasant. For this reason, listen carefully to the recommendations of the master, how to prepare for the session, what food and alcohol to avoid, and how to care for the "drawing" on the body afterwards.

@pakhanova

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Stages of scarring

There are several stages of scarring of the damaged area:

The first lasts about 5-7 days,
The second lasts up to 1 month,
The third lasting about 6 months,
The fourth lasts about 12 months.

The first phase is also called the inflammatory phase. At this time, granulation cells form at the incision site. It is at this point that the footprint of the operation has the most pronounced red or burgundy hue, as well as visibly protrudes above the rest of the skin.

The location of the scarring depends on the type of correction.

The second stage, proliferation, is characterized by the formation of a new capillary network at the site of the injury, the removal of swelling and redness. During the third phase, in six months, the scar becomes increasingly lighter and less convex.

Finally, in the final fourth phase, the scar after abdominoplasty gradually takes on its normal, natural appearance, becoming light, flat and little noticeable against the background of normal skin.

Scars on my leg

Fell off a bicycle as a child? Got into a fight with the boys in the yard next door? The story of your scars could be anything. The whitish scars on your knees that can't be removed with ointments and are rather problematic to remove with a laser can easily be concealed with a white tattoo. Such work looks amazingly gentle and absolutely does not attract attention.

@pakhanova

If you are bored with the "flowers" in their pure form, try to veil them in the image of mystical symbols and signs that only you understand. And when people around you ask what it means, smile mysteriously and shrug your shoulders.

@sashatattooingstudios

Scars are quite common on the feet, and the options for tattoos that can camouflage scars are endless. It can be images of animals or birds, floral or space motifs - anything your soul desires. And your beautiful legs.

@pakhanova

Types of scars

The size, location, and prominence of postoperative marks depend on the type of abdominoplasty.

Classic surgery leaves a long incision, located horizontally and running through the entire abdominal area. In some cases small incisions in the shape of a horseshoe or a triangle are possible, in particular if the navel is to be moved.
Vertical abdominoplasty is most commonly indicated for diastasis of the abdominal muscles. This technique combines the incision from classic plasty and a vertical incision running from the navel to the sternum.
To remove fat tissue located on the flanks and form a pronounced waist, a classic incision and two lateral incisions arranged in parallel will be needed.
If a lift is required in the hip area, a horizontal incision is combined with two lateral incisions all the way down to the waist.
Mini abdominoplasty implies removal of small volume of tissues, so in this case the post-operative track is short (not more than 20 cm), located along the line of the bikini area and is usually hidden under the clothes or the natural fold of the body.
The most complicated technique is considered to be circular abdominoplasty, with such a technique of incisions being made along the abdomen, around the body, on the sides and on the back.

Resurfacing

This refers to a chemical peel, which is carried out with the help of products based on organic acids. This procedure should be performed in a beauty salon or specialized clinic, because it is important to strictly follow the algorithm of its implementation.

Chemical peels are not always a guarantee of getting rid of the scar, but they will make the scar less noticeable, paler, almost smooth.

It is important to understand that chemical peeling - an aggressive effect on the skin, so it is contraindicated in the first 6 - 10 months after caesarean section, with a history of cancer, pelvic varicose veins, a high risk of uterine bleeding.

It is possible to carry out the resurfacing procedure at home and means from professional cosmetics. They contain only fruit acids, which are gentle on the dermis. Such care will make the scar less noticeable, but it will not remove it.

Abnormalities in scar tissue formation

After abdominoplasty surgery, the scar can develop into one of four types of scarring:

normotrophic,
atrophic,
hypertrophic,
keloid.

Normotrophic, as the name implies, is considered a normal result. Such a scar is little noticeable against the epithelial skin and has sensitivity.

Atrophic ones are the result of slowed collagen synthesis. They are light in color, have no sensitivity, are located below the skin level, as if "retracted" inside. Hypertrophic ones, on the contrary, are as if protruding above the epithelium, have a noticeable shade and uneven edges. The cause of their appearance is an excess of collagen in the background of tension, inflammation and other problems in the rehabilitation period.

Types of scars: a - atrophic, b - normotrophic, c - hypertrophic.

A keloid scar is the most unpleasant defect of all possible. The formation of keloid scars is possible due to unfavorable conditions during healing. The tendency to form keloid scars is also an innate feature of some patients. But keloid type scar tissue is an extremely rare complication of surgery.

Methods of removal

To get rid of the "ugly mark" on the abdomen wants every person, whether it is a young girl, a grown woman in the postpartum period or a man after surgery on appendicitis.

There are many ways to remove scars completely or reduce their size to little noticeable.

We recommend reading:

Prevention of complications of cesarean scar healing

Ointments and creams

The use of ointments and creams should begin in the early stages of formation. This will help avoid the growth of scar tissue and promotes rapid regeneration of the skin. Effective drugs of this group are:

Conractubex. The drug contains components that help to slow down the growth of connective tissues. The product has an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect. It is used twice a day, applied to the wound surface that has healed.
Dermatix. Gel for the treatment of scars. Smoothes the surface, relieves itching, promotes fast and resorption of protruding tissues. Gives the skin a well-groomed and healthy look.
Clearwin - used as a remedy for cesarean section scars and stretch marks in girls after childbirth. The drug based on herbal ingredients lightens the surface of the scar, improves blood supply to the affected area.

Before using any medication, it is necessary to consult with a doctor in order to avoid negative consequences.

Hardware methods

Cosmetology salons use several techniques to remove scars on the abdomen.

Cryotherapy - removal of the scar with liquid nitrogen. Under the influence of low temperature, the tissues of the formation are destroyed and die. An inconspicuous thin strip remains on the surface of the skin.

Laser skin resurfacing (laser peeling) is the most popular method of removing new growths. The procedure is performed using a special apparatus with a laser beam, which burns off the upper layers of the scar tissue. A full recovery of the skin requires 5-6 sessions.

Mesotherapy - a procedure where special medications are injected into the scar tissue to help dissolve the growth.

Surgical intervention

Surgery is the most invasive method of scar removal and is carried out in extreme cases (with keloid scars). The plastic surgeon cuts off excess tissue with a scalpel. The result of the procedure is a barely noticeable cosmetic thin scar.

Postoperative scar care

Rehabilitation plays a very important role in the formation of scar tissue. To make the traces of the intervention as less noticeable as possible, it is necessary to follow all the doctor's instructions. In particular, do not touch the bandage applied after surgery, wear compression underwear and sleep in a half-bent position. You will also need to give up sports, solarium, beach, bathing, sauna, and hot baths. Heat procedures or ultraviolet light are a sure way to noticeable scars. The use of any medications - only on the recommendation of the surgeon.

As a rule, the competent care and compliance with the rules can make the place where the stitches were imposed after abdominoplasty, is not distinguishable from the surrounding skin. The result can be assessed no earlier than one year after surgery. If the appearance of the scars does not suit the patient, you can resort to the services of cosmetology. Laser resurfacing, chemical peeling or surgical removal of excess scar tissue will help achieve the desired aesthetics.

Ksenia Puntus, model, 22 years old

This January, after an accident, I ended up in the intensive care unit with multiple fractures. Then there was a month and a half in a rehabilitation center - most of that time in a metal hip brace and with spikes in my arm. After I was discharged, I still had hooks on my left hand that were sticking out of my skin, because my arm took a long time to heal. I felt no sadness about the injury. Anger at myself or at life was useless. I have no regrets about the remaining scars, and I have no plans to remove them. It's beautiful, because this is you, your life, your story.

On his first post-operative shooting in mid-March, I went with these pieces of iron, but, unlike the stylists who dressed me, afraid to hurt them, I was not worried about this. Many people tattoo themselves to leave a memory of some events - it's also a small scarring, - and my scars remained on their own. What have I learned from this situation? That you have to take better care of yourself. However, my immediate plans are to go skydiving.

Ksenia Puntus, Vogue Russia, November 2021. Ksenia is wearing a T-shirt and panties made of nylon and cotton, 1500 and 950 rubles, all Lavarice

What should you do if the stitch is ruptured?

Tummy plasty involves a lot of tension in the area of the suture during rehabilitation because of the large volume of tissue removed. Surgeons take measures to hold the tissue in place, but there is no way to be completely immune from the divergence. The problem can arise due to errors in the choice of suture material, due to patient activity or physiological problems (suppuration, necrosis).

If after an abdominoplasty the suture has split, you should immediately contact your surgeon, and a number of measures should be taken before the visit:

continue treating the edges of the incision as instructed by the surgeon,
apply an additional plaster to reduce tension,
do not allow water, let alone dirt, to get into the area of the sutures,
Compression garment must be worn,
Avoid stress on the abdominal muscles and abs.

These measures will help to delay further edge divergence until the visit to the doctor. Depending on the situation and condition, the surgeon will help and adjust your home care.

Rules of abdominal scar healing

Scar formation and formation is a long and specific process. A person is required to follow certain rules and guidelines in order to heal a wound on the abdomen quickly. The right approach to the situation will ensure full rehabilitation without the likelihood of complications.
In order for the wound to heal safely, it is necessary to adhere to the following rules:

Treat the sutures daily with antiseptic preparations;
change the dressing material regularly;
Observe sanitary conditions of wound care;
Do not wet the sutures for the first week;
exclude any physical exertion until a permanent scar is formed;
do not lift objects weighing more than 3 kg after the scar is formed;
During the first weeks, use anti-inflammatory drugs, and in subsequent weeks - medications for scar reduction.

Attention should be paid to hygiene of the scar. The entry of bacterial infection will lead to an inflammatory process, the formation of purulent discharges, and tissue necrosis. In such a case, the wound will have to be opened and cleaned, which will affect the healing process and length of rehabilitation.

The formation of suspicious lumps, against which symptoms of general malaise appear, is a reason to consult a doctor. Sometimes in such situations a second dissection is necessary.

If a person ignores the instruction to avoid physical activity in the initial stage of healing, there is a risk of the suture divergence or rupture of the fragile scar. The condition is dangerous with profuse bleeding. Requires immediate hospitalization of the patient.

The earlier a person begins to use remedies to prevent scarring, the smaller and neater the mature scar will be. You will not be able to eliminate it completely by using only topical medications. But preventing its overgrowth is quite possible.

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My problem is this: just under a year ago, I was in a car accident. I had internal injuries, and the hospital immediately cut open my entire abdomen. I woke up with a very long and crooked stitch on my stomach, and another one about 10 cm long on my hip. Eventually everything healed, but it's been more than half a year since the surgery, and the scars are still very red and ugly. I wondered how to remove them, but I didn't learn anything useful. I only hear horror stories about scar removal. When all this happened, I had just broken up with my boyfriend. We weren't really in a serious relationship. Just an affair. It had already become clear that nothing serious would come out of it and we "parted friends." A couple of weeks after the breakup, there was an accident. He came to the hospital a couple of times, sympathized and carried flowers, but basically, it was over and done with.

And the problem is, I've been single ever since, and I'm afraid to meet men. I used to have no problem flirting with a man, getting acquainted and having an affair. Men used to court me on their own and it all worked out on its own. Now they're courting too. When I'm dressed, I look the same - I dress fashionably, put on makeup and have nice hair. I've even recovered from my illness and go dancing. But as soon as they start dragging me to bed, I shut down. Even if I really want to. I can't imagine a man undressing me and seeing all my scars. He'd probably be disgusted to look at me. And in general the desire to have sex with me will disappear, men love with their eyes. And if they do not like a woman ...

A woman at the hospital asked me if I had children. I said I hadn't yet. The woman said that, eh, I should have had one sooner, or what about now. And I replied that the doctors did not forbid me to have children and nothing seemed to prevent it. And the woman said: "Yes, but try to find a father for these children!"

And I keep thinking back to these words. And really, how? How do I find a man who won't see my scars? I really love men, I love to have sex, I want romance, then I want to fall in love, and I want to find a husband, and have children. But I am afraid that all this will not happen. But what to do if a man is courting me? Tell him the whole truth at once? So he will run away at once. Or not to say anything? But it's even worse if he runs right out of bed! I thought I had to tell him beforehand, but I never found the right moment. How is it like sitting there, chatting, and all of a sudden saying, "and you know I have a horrible one under my dress"? Also, a friend tells me if you're shy, have an affair with ugly men who themselves have some flaw, they themselves are stuffed with complexes, and it's easier to forgive you yours. And I can't choose like that. I like the ones I've always liked - the handsome and self-assured ones.

I read in your jj that you've been operated on many times, and you must have had this problem somehow too. And you can tell from some of the entries that you have men in your life. It's probably incorrect to ask this question - but are you sleeping with them? Have you found men who aren't bothered by your scars? Or have you somehow managed to make the scars go away? I'm sorry for asking these questions, but I have no one else to ask. And thank you in advance.