Scars · Lower abdomen · Drain sites
Tummy tuck drain scars: why the small marks show and how to hide them
After a tummy tuck, most attention goes to the long hip-to-hip scar. But many people end up more bothered by one or two small round scars from the drains, because they often sit just above or beside where underwear and swimwear end. Here is what you can do.
Why drain scars can be noticeable
Drains are small tubes that let fluid out after surgery. Where the tube exits the skin, a small round scar forms. Because the drain stays in for days or weeks, these scars can heal a little wider, more indented, or a different colour from the main incision. Their position varies by surgeon, and sometimes they fall outside the main scar line.
Quick cover
Since they are small, drain scars are easy to cover with a dab of waterproof concealer for swimwear. Stipple it on and set with powder. Choosing bottoms that sit a little higher often covers them completely.
Real results and real moments
Colour matching for drain scars
If the marks are mature and paler than your skin, they are often a straightforward area for scar camouflage, and they can be done at the same visit as the main tummy tuck scar. If they are darker than your skin, camouflage is usually not the answer. Indented drain scars will still have a dip after colour work. See SKINEAV’s tummy tuck scar page for real before-and-after examples. Results vary.
When it’s ready
Abdominal surgery scars generally need a year or more to settle. They should be flat (or as flat as they will get), no longer pink and not tender. If a drain site healed slowly or became infected, check with your surgeon first.
How it works at SKINEAV
- Photo or callSend a photo or book a free phone consult. Honest first answer.
- Assessment & colour testIn clinic, Evelyn checks your skin and tests a custom formula.
- TreatmentPigment placed precisely, only where it is needed, one-on-one.
- Heal & reviewThe colour settles over weeks; follow-ups are planned if needed.
Realistic results
Drain scars are small, so a realistic result is often that they stop catching the eye at all in swimwear, especially when treated together with the main incision. If one healed indented, it may still show a small dip in side light. Expect slight redness for a day or two and a softer, settled colour after a few weeks.
Your next step
Ready to talk? Call 437-475-2757 for a free phone consult with Evelyn, or send a photo for a free assessment. Visits are by appointment at the clinic in Vaughan (36 Bessemer Ct, Unit 1).
Frequently asked questions
Can drain scars be done in the same session as the main scar?
Often yes, if both are mature and suitable. Evelyn will plan it at consult.
My drain scar is dented. Will camouflage help?
It can blend colour, but the dent will remain. A surgeon can advise on revision for texture.
Why are my drain scars darker than the incision?
Healing differs between sites. Darker marks are usually a poor fit for camouflage and may fade over time or need a dermatologist’s advice.
How do I find out if my scar is suitable?
Call 437-475-2757 for a free phone consult with Evelyn, or send clear daylight photos through the free assessment page. You will get an honest answer, including “not yet” or “this is not a good fit” when that is the truth.