How Fashion Can Influence Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Scar Placement

Like any surgical procedure, an abdominoplasty (commonly called a tummy tuck) leaves a scar. The scar is typically a horizontal line across the lower abdomen. For many patients, one consideration is how the scar may sit in relation to their clothing and swimwear.

At the Body Contouring Surgery Clinic (BCSC), our surgeons discuss scar placement with each patient during the consultation. The aim is to find a position that balances surgical requirements with a patient’s usual clothing choices.

Types of Abdominoplasty Scars

Different techniques are used depending on how much excess skin and tissue need to be removed. Each leaves a different type of scar.

Mini Abdominoplasty

  • Involves a shorter scar, usually three to six inches in length.
  • The scar is positioned just above the pubic area, similar to a caesarean section scar.
  • In some cases, an existing caesarean scar can be revised or incorporated into the new incision line.

Full Abdominoplasty

  • Suitable for patients with more significant excess skin and muscle laxity.
  • Leaves a longer scar that typically extends from hip to hip.
  • Also involves an incision around the umbilicus (belly button).

Extended Abdominoplasty

  • Used when excess skin extends to the flanks or hips, often following major weight loss.
  • Results in a longer scar that reaches further around the sides of the body.

Fashion and Scar Placement

Scar placement is influenced by surgical technique and individual anatomy. However, your preferred clothing styles can also guide where the incision is made. It is important to discuss this with your surgeon before surgery.

One-Piece Swimwear

For patients who often wear one-piece swimsuits, the incision may need to be placed carefully to avoid showing near the leg openings or hip line.

French-Cut Bikinis or Underwear

If you prefer high-cut bottoms, the incision may be angled slightly higher to follow the garment line. This can make the scar less visible in this style.

High-Waisted Bikinis and Retro Styles

High-rise bottoms generally offer more coverage for lower abdominal scars. These can be a good option if you prefer to keep the scar well concealed.

Monokinis, Tankinis and Cut-Out Swimwear

These can provide coverage for some abdominal scars, depending on the cut-out position. A very low scar may still show with high-cut sides.

Minimal-Coverage Swimwear (Cheeky, Thong, Boy-Short Styles)

These styles reveal more skin. If you often wear them, it is important to mention this during your consultation so your surgeon can take it into account when planning incision placement.

Adapting to Changing Fashion Trends

Fashion styles change over time, and it is not always possible to predict what will be popular in future. While scars usually fade over one to two years, they will not disappear completely. Being flexible with clothing choices is often the most practical way to accommodate scar placement in the long term.

Scar Healing and Appearance

Scars mature gradually:

  • Closure stage (first few weeks): The incision heals and collagen begins to form.
  • Establishment stage (3–6 months): The scar may look redder or more raised as blood supply increases.
  • Maturity stage (12–24 months): The scar typically softens, flattens and fades in colour.

Options That May Help Reduce the Appearance of Scars

Some patients explore additional treatments after surgery to support scar management. These can include:

  • Silicone tape or silicone sheets – often started once the incision is fully healed.
  • Laser or light-based treatments – sometimes used to reduce redness or pigmentation changes.
  • Microneedling – may help blend the scar with surrounding skin.
  • Tattooing – some people choose to camouflage scars with body art once healing is complete.

These options should only be considered after discussion with your surgeon, as timing and suitability vary.

Key Points to Remember

  • Scar placement is a balance between surgical needs and personal preferences.
  • Clothing and swimwear styles may influence where the incision is positioned.
  • Scars change over time but do not disappear completely.
  • Treatments are available that may help reduce scar visibility, but results vary.

References

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  3. Ramage, S., Farmer, A., Eccles, K. A., & McCargar, L. (2014). Healthy strategies for successful weight loss and weight maintenance: a systematic review. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 39(1), 1–20. 
  4. Wallace, H. A. (2023, March 7). Wound healing process. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.
  5. Rodríguez, M. I. A., Barroso, L. G. R., & Sánchez, M. A. (2017). Collagen: A review on its sources and potential cosmetic applications. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(1), 20–26.
  6. Ubbink, D. T., Brölmann, F. E., Go, P. M. N. Y. H., & Vermeulen, H. (2015). Evidence-Based Care of Acute Wounds: A Perspective. Advances in Wound Care, 4(5), 286–294.
  7. Winocour, J., Gupta, V., Ramirez, J., Shack, R. B., Grotting, J. C., & Higdon, K. (2015). Abdominoplasty. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 136(5), 597e–606e. 
  8. Montesanti, B., Kahhaleh, E., & De Mey, A. (2021). Experience of abdominoplasty and analysis of the risk factors. Acta Chirurgica Belgica, 1–6.