If you are wondering what a tummy tuck scar will look like, the answer depends on the type of tummy tuck you have and how your body heals. Most tummy tuck scars are placed low on the abdomen so they can be hidden beneath underwear or swimwear, and they typically fade over time. Below, we explain where tummy tuck scars are usually located, how their appearance can vary, and what to expect during healing.
How Tummy Tuck Incisions Affect Scarring
During a tummy tuck, your surgeon removes excess skin and fat and may also repair separated abdominal muscles. The type of tummy tuck you need helps determine where your incisions are placed, how long they are, and whether you will also have a scar around the bellybutton.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck uses a shorter incision to address loose skin and fullness below the bellybutton. There is usually no incision around the navel. Because the incision is smaller than with a full tummy tuck, the resulting scar is typically shorter as well.
Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck usually involves a horizontal hip-to-hip incision placed low on the abdomen. It addresses loose skin and excess fat above and below the bellybutton and often includes abdominal muscle repair. Because the skin is repositioned, a scar around the bellybutton is also common.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is designed for more extensive correction through the midsection and may also address the flanks. The incision extends farther than a standard tummy tuck incision, which creates a longer scar, but it also allows for more comprehensive contouring. A scar around the bellybutton is also common with this approach.
You can learn more about determining whether you’re a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery in our related blog post.
Tummy Tuck Scars: What To Expect
Tummy tuck scars are a normal part of the healing process. Right after surgery, incision lines often look red, raised, or swollen. Over time, they typically soften, flatten, and fade. While scars are permanent, many patients find that their tummy tuck scars become far less noticeable within 6 to 12 months.
Our board-certified plastic surgeons accomplish the best possible healing with multiple-layer suture closure. This technique minimizes tension on the incision and improves scarring.
The most common types of tummy tuck scars include:
Horizontal Scar
A low horizontal scar is typical of a tummy tuck. With a mini tummy tuck, this scar is usually shorter. With an extended tummy tuck, it is longer and may continue farther around the hips or flanks. In each case, surgeons generally place the incision as low as possible to help keep it discreet under clothing.
Bellybutton Scar
If your surgeon creates a new opening for the bellybutton during a full or extended tummy tuck, you can expect a small scar around the navel. In many cases, this scar is designed to sit within the natural contours of the bellybutton so it is less noticeable once healed.
What About Liposuction Scars?
If liposuction is performed along with a tummy tuck, you may also have a few very small liposuction access-point scars. These are typically much smaller than tummy tuck incisions and are often placed in discreet locations whenever possible. Like any scar, they are permanent, but they usually fade over time and are often far less noticeable than the main tummy tuck scar.
Minimizing Your Tummy Tuck Scars
While no scar can be erased completely, careful aftercare can support the best possible healing. Follow your surgeon’s instructions closely and use scar-care products only as directed.
- Protect healing skin from sun exposure and use sunscreen once your surgeon says it is safe
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support healing
- Use gentle skincare products around the area
- Avoid clothing or products that irritate healing skin
- Use scar cream or silicone scar tape only if recommended by your surgeon
With proper care and a good understanding of recovery, you can feel more comfortable and confident as you heal.
Tummy Tuck Scar FAQ
Where is a tummy tuck scar located?
Most tummy tuck scars are placed low on the abdomen so they can be hidden beneath underwear or many swimsuit styles.
Will I have a bellybutton scar after a tummy tuck?
If you have a full or extended tummy tuck, a small scar around the bellybutton is common because the skin is repositioned during surgery.
How long does it take for a tummy tuck scar to fade?
Tummy tuck scars usually continue to mature and fade over many months. Many patients notice significant improvement within 6 to 12 months, although healing varies.
Are mini tummy tuck scars smaller?
Yes. Mini tummy tuck scars are usually shorter than full tummy tuck scars because they involve a smaller incision and more limited correction.
Considering a Tummy Tuck?
Request a consultation to learn which tummy tuck approach may be right for you, where your incisions would likely be placed, and what to expect during recovery and scar healing. You can also call South Bay Plastic Surgeons at (310) 784-0644 to set up your appointment.
This blog post was originally published in December 2023 and has been updated for 2026.
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