Will a Tummy Tuck Scar Drop over Time?

Q: I had surgery 3 weeks ago. The doctor marked where I wanted the scar given the underwear I wore, but the scar is about 1″ higher than that now, so not concealed by my underwear. He says it will drop over the next few months, but I don’t see anything online supporting that. Will it drop? How much and when? Thank you for your help!

A: Tummy tuck scars are more likely to drift in an upward direction rather than downward. This is due to the upward pull on the scar from the upper abdominal flap. It’s possible your surgeon feels the postoperative swelling is making the incision placement appear displaced, and once it goes down it will be in a slightly different location. I’m not sure that will happen, but in any case, 3 weeks after surgery is too early for any revision. I would recommend allowing time for your incision to heal and the swelling to subside. I would suggest giving it at least 6 months before any revision.