Abdominoplasty Scars and Belly Button: What to Expect

An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) always leaves a scar. In a full abdominoplasty, it runs across the lower tummy above the pubic area, with a second scar around the belly button. Scars usually start red and raised and fade over 12 to 18 months, though how they settle varies.

This guide explains where the scar sits for each type of tummy tuck, how Dr Reema Hadi cares for it after surgery, and what happens to your umbilicus (belly button). Dr Hadi marks and discusses your planned scar with you at your consultation.

Where the scar sits

The scar depends on which operation you have. Dr Hadi discusses the location and length of your scar at your consultation

• Full abdominoplasty a horizontal scar across the lower tummy, above the pubic area, plus a scar around the belly button.
• Partial abdominoplasty: a shorter scar, typically just above the pubic area.
• Extended tummy tuck: a longer horizontal scar that goes beyond the hips, usually used to remove more flank tissue. Usually this curves slighly higher.
• Fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty : the horizontal scar plus a vertical scar running from the lower breastbone to the pubic area. Swan's page notes this scarring is more extensive, and the vertical line can be slower to heal.
• Reverse abdominoplasty: the scar sits under the breasts, in or near the breast crease.
• Belt lipectomy: a scar that goes all the way around the waist.

Whether a full abdominoplasty scar can sit within your underwear or swimwear depends on your body and the amount of skin removed. Bring a favourite pair of briefs or bikini bottoms to your consultation so you can talk it through.

Why the scar is longer than you might expect

The length of the scar depends on how much loose skin needs to be removed and how far it extends to the sides. A shorter scar can leave a small fold of skin at each end, sometimes called a "dog ear". Dr Hadi balances scar length against how the skin sits.

How the scar changes over time

• First 2 weeks: the wound is closed in layers with dissolvable stitches and covered with a Comfeel dressing.
• 2 weeks to 3 months: the scar is taped, then treated with scar gel. At this stage it is often red and raised, and your tummy may feel tight.
• 3 to 12 months: the scar gradually settles. Keep protecting it from the sun until at least 6 months.
• 12 to 18 months: raised scars that look red or different from your usual skin colour should fade over this time.

Some people form thicker scars. The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons lists hypertrophic and keloid scars, which are raised, red and thickened, as a possible risk. They can be itchy but are not a threat to health. If your scar is thickening, Dr Hadi can check it at your follow-up.

Dr Hadi's scar-care plan

This is the plan on Swan's belt lipectomy page. Dr Hadi will confirm the plan for your operation.

1. After surgery: the wounds are dressed with Comfeel, a thin protective dressing.
2. From 2 weeks: the dressing changes to brown tape. The tape is changed weekly and is needed for at least 2 weeks, sometimes up to 12 weeks. You can shower over the tape and blow-dry it.
3. Once the tape is finished: apply scar gel twice a day for 2 months.
4. For at least 6 months: protect the scar from the sun with tape or sunscreen.

Other things that help your scar

• Do not smoke for 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery. Smoking contributes to wound breakdown and delayed healing.
• Avoid strain on the wound for at least 6 weeks: no heavy lifting, bending or strenuous exercise.
• Wear your binder as advised. See compression garments and swelling.
• Eat well and stay hydrated while you heal.
• Keep your follow-up visits at 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 12 months, so Dr Hadi can check the scar.

What happens to the belly button

In a full tummy tuck, the skin above your belly button is drawn down towards the pubic area. As the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons describes it, a separate incision around the belly button frees it, and it is then reconnected to the skin in its new position. This is why a full tummy tuck leaves a small scar around the belly button. The MBS describes this step as "transposition of umbilicus".

• Full abdominoplasty: the belly button is repositioned, leaving a scar around it.
• Partial abdominoplasty: the operation focuses on the area below the belly button. Dr Hadi will explain whether yours is left alone or moved.
• Reverse and fleur-de-lis: Dr Hadi will explain what happens to your belly button for these operations.

The scar around the belly button heals like any other wound, so the same care applies. Its final shape varies from person to person.

Belly button hernias

Some people with separated tummy muscles after pregnancy also have a small hernia at the belly button. The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons notes that an umbilical hernia may be corrected during the procedure. Dr Hadi checks for this at your consultation. In some cases you will be referred for an ultrasound to also check for muscle separation.

If a scar needs more treatment

Most scars settle with time and care. Sometimes a scar stays thick, or a dog ear remains at one end. A small revision may be considered once the scar has matured. Dr Hadi explains her revision policy, including costs, before your surgery.

Results and risks

All surgery carries risks, and scars and results vary. Read Abdominoplasty risks and when something goes wrong and our recovery timeline. To book a consultation with Dr Hadi, specialist plastic surgeon, call 02 9526 6885 or use our contact page.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the scar after an abdominoplasty?

For a full abdominoplasty, across the lower tummy above the pubic area, plus around the belly button. Partial, fleur-de-lis, reverse and belt operations have different scars.

How long does an abdominoplasty scar take to fade?

Usually 12 to 18 months. It starts red and raised and gradually softens and fades.

Will my abdominoplasty scar be hidden by underwear?

Often it can sit low, but this depends on your body and how much skin is removed. Dr Hadi discusses it with you before surgery.

How do I look after my abdominoplasty scar?

Dr Hadi uses Comfeel, then brown tape from 2 weeks, then scar gel twice a day for 2 months, and sun protection for at least 6 months.

Does an abdominoplasty move your belly button?

In a full abdominoplasty, yes. The belly button is brought out through a new opening in its new position, leaving a scar around it.

Does a partial abdominoplasty change the belly button?

A partial abdominoplasty works below the belly button. Dr Hadi explains whether your umbilicus stays where it is or is moved.

What are dog ears after a tummy tuck?

Small folds of skin at the ends of the scar. They may settle, and sometimes a small revision is considered. This is rare in our clinic.