Unless the tummy tuck is performed endoscopically, there is no way to hide the primary incision scar, which may be more than a foot long. In about 95 percent of patients, the scars are less than 1/4-inch wide and turn white after 6 to 12 months. But in 5 percent of patients, the scar matures into a wide, red line. The scar around the belly button is usually far less noticeable. Scars on African-American patients tend to turn darker than the surrounding skin.
Fortunately, you can hide the primary scar under panties and most swimsuit styles (except thong bikinis).
If your scar becomes red and unsightly, ask your plastic surgeon about a silicone sheet, which may help the scar mature a bit faster. Sometimes, steroids are injected into the scars to improve their appearance.
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