Dog Ears After Tummy Tuck: Assessment and Revision Options

“Dog ears” after a tummy tuck are folds or puckers that may occur at one or both ends of an incision. They can relate to skin and fat distribution, incision length, tissue tension, swelling and healing. Early irregularity does not always represent the final result.

Assessment and timing

The operating surgeon should assess the incision, swelling, scar, skin laxity, fat distribution, wound healing and symptoms. Seek prompt advice for increasing redness, heat, discharge, opening of the wound, severe pain, fever, calf swelling, chest pain or breathlessness.

Possible management

Observation may be appropriate while swelling and scars settle. Depending on the cause and extent, options can include scar care, limited skin excision, liposuction or a broader revision. Fat-freezing treatment does not remove excess skin and should not be presented as a general correction for a surgical dog ear.

Risks of revision

Revision risks include bleeding, infection, delayed healing, a longer or different scar, asymmetry, altered sensation, contour irregularity, fluid collection, anaesthetic complications and recurrence. The timing, anaesthesia and likely benefit must be individualised.

The NHS tummy-tuck guide describes recovery and possible complications.

Revitalize care checks

Contact the Revitalize team and named contracted surgeon before arranging treatment elsewhere. Confirm examination findings, photographs, proposed correction, hospital, written quotation, follow-up and complication plan. See Revitalize’s tummy tuck information, aftercare guidance and contact route.