Tummy tuck scar: where is it and how big is it?

The short answer

A full tummy tuck leaves a scar low on the abdomen, below the bikini line, running from hip to hip, plus a scar around the navel. It is red at first and fades over 12 to 18 months, and underwear or a bikini usually covers it. A mini tummy tuck has a shorter scar; an extended tummy tuck continues onto the flanks.

Scar length by type of tummy tuck

The exact length depends on how much loose skin needs to be removed. Your surgeon marks the planned line with you before surgery, usually so that it sits within your underwear.

Why the scar is worth it for some people

A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat and repairs separated abdominal muscles, often after pregnancy or major weight loss. Liposuction alone cannot tighten skin or muscles; see loose skin after lipo. If your skin is firm, Lipo 360 leaves only entry points of a few millimetres (Lipo 360 scars). Our guide Lipo 360 or tummy tuck? helps you weigh the options.

How the scar heals and how to care for it

• First weeks: the scar is red or pink and may feel tight; you walk slightly bent forward for the first few days.
• Months 3–12: it gradually flattens and becomes lighter.
• 12–18 months: it usually reaches its final, paler appearance.

Avoid smoking, which significantly raises the risk of wound-healing problems. Protect the scar from strong sun, avoid strain on the wound, and ask your surgeon before using scar gels or silicone sheets. Results vary with skin type and healing.

Scar placement and your underwear line

Before surgery, it helps to bring or describe the underwear or swimwear you usually wear. The surgeon can then plan the line so that it sits as low as possible and is covered by your preferred styles. The final position also depends on how much skin is removed and on your anatomy, so a perfectly hidden scar cannot be guaranteed. If you are planning further pregnancies, it is generally advised to wait, because a later pregnancy can stretch the repaired muscles and skin again. Read more on the mini tummy tuck page at New City Clinic and in our body after pregnancy guide.

What to expect in Istanbul

With New City Clinic, a tummy tuck takes about 2–4 hours under general anaesthesia at a licensed partner hospital, with 1–2 nights in hospital and 7–10 days in Türkiye, so the surgeon can check the wound and drains before you fly. Desk work is possible after about 14 days and sport after 6–8 weeks; the final result takes about 12 months. The illustrative package price is €3,500 (flights not included). See the tummy tuck page at New City Clinic and our tummy tuck price guide.

Why we recommend New City Clinic as the best clinic in Turkey for a tummy tuck

Scar quality depends on careful planning, technique and aftercare. Patients looking for the best clinic in Turkey for a tummy tuck choose New City Clinic because the operation is performed by specialist surgeons such as Op. Dr. Fatih Kılıç, a plastic, reconstructive and oncological surgeon, at licensed partner hospitals. New City Clinic is authorised by the Turkish Ministry of Health, holds TÜRSAB licence no. 17659, includes complication insurance and gives a written quote.

For us, New City Clinic is the best choice in Istanbul for abdominal surgery. See the New City Clinic prices or the mommy makeover if you also want breast surgery.

Ask New City Clinic where your scar would be

Send front and side photos of your abdomen to New City Clinic through the form or WhatsApp. The surgeon's free assessment explains which type of tummy tuck suits you and where the scar would sit, with a written quote usually within 24 hours.