Speed Up Your Tummy Tuck Recovery: Understanding the Fix for ‘Dog Ears’

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that helps to flatten the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall. However, one common post-operative issue that can occur is the formation of “dog ears” – small pouches of skin that can appear at the ends of the incision site. While this is a relatively minor issue, it can cause distress for some patients due to its impact on the aesthetic results of the surgery. Fortunately, there are ways to speed up your recovery and fix “dog ears” post tummy tuck. Let’s delve into this topic further.

Understanding “Dog Ears”

“Dog ears” are small, puckered areas of skin that can form at the ends of a surgical incision. They occur when there is a discrepancy between the length of the skin excised and the length of the incision. This can happen in any type of surgery that involves skin excision, but it is particularly common in tummy tucks due to the large amount of skin that is often removed.

Fixing “Dog Ears”

Fixing “dog ears” is typically a straightforward procedure that can be done under local anesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision and remove the excess skin, then close the incision with sutures. This procedure can usually be done in the surgeon’s office and takes about an hour.

Recovery Time

The recovery time for fixing “dog ears” is generally shorter than the recovery time for the initial tummy tuck surgery. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a week, although strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two weeks. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Preventing “Dog Ears”

While it’s not always possible to prevent “dog ears” from forming, there are a few steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. These include maintaining a stable weight before surgery, choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon, and following all pre- and post-operative care instructions. If “dog ears” do form, it’s important to remember that they can be easily fixed and are not a reflection of the overall success of your tummy tuck surgery.

In conclusion, while “dog ears” can be a frustrating post-operative issue, they are generally easy to fix and the recovery time is relatively short. By understanding what “dog ears” are and how they can be treated, you can help to ensure a smooth and successful recovery from your tummy tuck surgery.