Abdominoplasty Scar — Early Post-Surgical Phase

Overview

This example describes observable soft-tissue and scar characteristics noted during massage therapy treatment of an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) incision approximately three months after surgery.

It is provided for educational purposes only and reflects one individual presentation at a specific point in time.

Presentation

The patient presented with a hip-to-hip horizontal abdominal scar following abdominoplasty surgery.

At the time of treatment, the scar demonstrated:

Dark purple areas, more prominent centrally

Raised segments along portions of the incision

Uneven, pitted texture consistent with prior post-surgical infection

Firm, rigid feel on palpation

Reduced mobility of the scar and surrounding tissue

A mild pulling sensation with trunk extension

No contraindications to treatment were reported.

Treatment Approach

Massage therapy was provided using a full scar-treatment protocol applied along the length of the horizontal incision only.

Treatment characteristics included:

Systematic work along the entire scar line

Even, continuous contact across raised, pitted, and discoloured segments

Gentle pressure within patient comfort

Final integration along the same horizontal line to support overall scar mobility

No vertical, diagonal, or cross-directional techniques were used.

Observations During and After Treatment

Following the session, the following changes were observed:

Visual appearance

Darker areas appeared lighter and more uniform in colour

Patchy discolouration appeared less pronounced

Palpation

Raised segments felt less elevated

Uneven areas felt smoother and more level

Improved surface glide and reduced rigidity were noted

Patient-reported response

Reduced pulling sensation during trunk extension

No adverse effects reported

Clinical Context

Scars influenced by infection or disrupted healing may demonstrate irregular texture, pigmentation, and tissue mobility.

Massage therapy may support comfort and soft-tissue mobility in such presentations.

Responses vary between individuals and across sessions.

Important Note on Case Examples

This scenario describes one observed response during massage therapy treatment.

It does not represent typical results and does not predict outcomes for others.

Massage therapy does not guarantee changes in scar appearance or function.