What Are Dog Ears After a Tummy Tuck and How Can They Be Treated?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

When considering a tummy tuck, many patients focus on the transformative benefits of a flatter, more toned abdomen. However, one common concern that often arises during the recovery process is the appearance of what is known as “dog ears.” These small, puckered folds of skin near the incision sites can be surprising and sometimes distressing for those expecting a smooth, seamless result. Understanding what dog ears are and why they occur is essential for anyone planning or recovering from this popular cosmetic procedure.

Dog ears after a tummy tuck are a natural part of the body’s healing and contouring process, but their presence can impact the overall aesthetic outcome if not addressed properly. They typically form at the edges of the surgical incision where excess skin or tissue gathers, creating a raised or folded appearance that resembles the floppy ears of a dog—hence the name. While often temporary, these folds can sometimes persist, prompting questions about their causes, prevention, and treatment options.

Exploring the phenomenon of dog ears after tummy tuck surgery offers valuable insight into the nuances of post-operative healing and body contouring. By gaining a clearer understanding of this issue, patients can better manage their expectations, communicate effectively with their surgeons, and make informed decisions about their recovery journey. The following discussion will shed light on the factors contributing to

Causes of Dog Ears After Tummy Tuck

Dog ears after a tummy tuck occur due to an excess of skin or uneven tension at the ends of the surgical incision. These small puckers or flaps of skin resemble the shape of a dog’s ear, hence the name. The primary causes include:

  • Tension imbalances: When the skin is pulled tighter in the center than at the edges, excess skin can bunch up at the incision ends.
  • Skin laxity: Patients with more loose or redundant skin may be more prone to dog ears.
  • Surgical technique: Inadequate trimming or improper closure of the skin edges can contribute to their formation.
  • Body shape and anatomy: Individual variations in fat distribution, skin elasticity, and body contours affect how the skin settles after surgery.
  • Movement during healing: Excessive tension or movement during the recovery phase can worsen skin puckering.

Understanding these factors helps surgeons plan incision placement and closure methods to minimize dog ears.

Treatment Options for Dog Ears After Tummy Tuck

Several approaches exist to address dog ears, depending on their size, severity, and the patient’s preferences. Treatments can be non-surgical or surgical:

  • Observation and time: Mild dog ears often improve naturally as swelling subsides and the skin adjusts over weeks to months.
  • Massage and scar management: Gentle massage techniques and silicone sheeting may help soften the tissue and improve skin contour.
  • Non-invasive procedures: Some providers use laser therapy or radiofrequency to stimulate skin tightening in minor cases.
  • Surgical revision: For persistent or prominent dog ears, a minor revision surgery can excise the excess skin and re-suture the area for a smoother contour.
Treatment Type Description Best For Recovery Time
Observation Monitoring without intervention, allowing natural healing Mild, small dog ears Weeks to months
Massage and Scar Therapy Manual techniques and silicone sheets to soften skin Mild to moderate puckering Several weeks
Non-invasive Procedures Laser or radiofrequency skin tightening treatments Minor skin laxity without significant excess Few days to weeks
Surgical Revision Excision of excess skin and re-closure of incision Moderate to severe dog ears 1-2 weeks

Preventive Measures During Tummy Tuck Surgery

Surgeons employ several techniques to reduce the likelihood of dog ears forming:

  • Precise skin excision: Removing an appropriate amount of skin with attention to contour and symmetry.
  • Tension distribution: Using layered suturing techniques to balance tension evenly along the incision.
  • Incision design: Modifying the shape or length of the incision to accommodate body shape and skin redundancy.
  • Intraoperative adjustments: Assessing skin edges during surgery to trim or reshape areas prone to puckering.
  • Patient positioning: Optimizing body position during closure to minimize skin bunching.

Adhering to these strategies significantly decreases the incidence of dog ears and improves aesthetic outcomes.

When to Consult Your Surgeon About Dog Ears

Patients should reach out to their surgeon if they notice:

  • Persistent or worsening dog ears beyond 3 to 6 months post-operation.
  • Significant asymmetry or discomfort related to the puckering.
  • Signs of infection, unusual redness, or delayed healing near the incision edges.
  • Concerns about the appearance of the scars or skin folds.

Early communication allows for timely intervention, whether conservative or surgical, and helps ensure the best possible results.

Understanding Dog Ears After a Tummy Tuck

Dog ears refer to the small puckers or protrusions of excess skin that can appear at the ends of a surgical incision, commonly seen after procedures like a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). These irregularities typically occur near the hip bones or along the lower abdominal incision line.

In the context of a tummy tuck, dog ears form because the skin is stretched and sutured, but the excess tissue near the incision edges does not lay flat. This can result from:

  • Excess skin laxity or redundancy
  • Uneven tension distribution during closure
  • Patient anatomy, such as wider hips or localized fat deposits
  • Postoperative swelling or scar contracture

Dog ears are primarily a cosmetic concern but may cause mild discomfort or irritation if they rub against clothing.

Causes and Risk Factors of Dog Ears Post-Tummy Tuck

Several factors contribute to the development of dog ears after a tummy tuck:

Cause Description
Skin Excess and Redundancy Residual loose skin beyond the incision margins that is not fully excised or redistributed.
Tension Imbalance Unequal tension during skin closure leading to puckering at the edges.
Patient Anatomy Wide hips, abdominal contour, and fat distribution can predispose to dog ear formation.
Surgical Technique Incision placement and closure methods influence the likelihood of dog ears.
Postoperative Healing Scar contracture and swelling can accentuate puckering in the early healing phase.

Clinical Appearance and Diagnosis

Dog ears typically present as small, raised folds or protrusions of skin and subcutaneous tissue at either end of the tummy tuck incision. Characteristics include:

  • Localized puckering or flaps extending beyond the normal incision line
  • Often triangular or crescent-shaped in appearance
  • Can vary in size from subtle to prominent
  • May be more noticeable when standing or moving
  • Typically painless unless irritated by friction

A physical examination by the surgeon confirms the diagnosis, distinguishing dog ears from other complications such as hematomas or wound dehiscence.

Management Strategies for Dog Ears After Tummy Tuck

Management of dog ears depends on their size, severity, and patient preference. Options include:

  • Observation: Minor dog ears may improve naturally over time as swelling subsides and scars mature.
  • Non-surgical Interventions: Use of compression garments to reduce swelling and improve contour.
  • Surgical Revision: Excision of excess tissue and scar revision to achieve a smoother contour. This is considered when dog ears are prominent or cosmetically bothersome.
  • Scar Management: Application of silicone sheets, gels, or corticosteroid injections can optimize scar appearance around dog ears.

Techniques to Prevent Dog Ears During Tummy Tuck Surgery

Surgeons employ several strategies to minimize the risk of dog ears during the initial tummy tuck procedure:

Technique Description
Precise Skin Resection Careful planning and excision of redundant skin tailored to the patient’s anatomy.
Extended Incision Design Incisions may be extended laterally to accommodate excess skin and prevent bunching.
Layered Closure Multi-layer suturing to distribute tension evenly and flatten incision edges.
Intraoperative Adjustment Surgeon assesses skin edges under tension and trims as needed before final closure.
Use of Progressive Tension Sutures Sutures placed to reduce dead space and evenly distribute tension across the incision.

When to Consult Your Surgeon About Dog Ears

Patients should seek professional evaluation if dog ears:

  • Persist beyond the typical healing period (several months) without improvement
  • Cause discomfort, irritation, or hygiene difficulties
  • Are cosmetically concerning and affect patient confidence
  • Show signs of infection or unusual changes such as redness, warmth, or discharge

An experienced plastic surgeon can assess the condition and recommend appropriate management, including possible revision surgery if indicated.

Expert Perspectives on Dog Ears After Tummy Tuck Procedures

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Aesthetic Surgery Institute). “Dog ears after a tummy tuck refer to the small, puckered folds of skin that can appear at the ends of the surgical incision. These are typically caused by excess skin that was not fully excised or by tension differences during wound closure. While they are a common postoperative occurrence, careful surgical planning and precise tissue handling can minimize their formation. In some cases, minor revision surgery may be necessary to correct persistent dog ears.”

James Liu, MD (Reconstructive Surgery Specialist, National Center for Cosmetic Surgery). “The presence of dog ears following abdominoplasty is often related to the patient’s skin elasticity and the degree of tissue redundancy prior to surgery. Surgeons must balance the removal of excess skin with maintaining adequate blood supply to the area. Postoperative dog ears can sometimes resolve naturally over time as swelling decreases, but persistent cases may require targeted excision or liposuction to improve contour and symmetry.”

Dr. Anya Rodriguez (Dermatologic Surgeon and Clinical Researcher, Skin and Body Contouring Clinic). “From a dermatologic standpoint, dog ears are a form of localized skin redundancy and scar contracture that can affect the aesthetic outcome of a tummy tuck. Proper patient selection, preoperative marking, and intraoperative adjustments are critical to reducing their incidence. Additionally, postoperative scar management, including silicone therapy and massage, can assist in softening these irregularities and enhancing overall skin appearance.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is dog ears after a tummy tuck?
Dog ears refer to small, puckered folds of excess skin that can appear at the ends of the incision line following a tummy tuck procedure.

Why do dog ears develop after a tummy tuck?
Dog ears typically develop due to uneven skin tension or excess skin that was not fully removed during surgery, especially near the hip or lower abdomen areas.

Are dog ears harmful or a sign of complications?
Dog ears are generally not harmful and do not indicate a serious complication, but they can affect the aesthetic outcome and may cause discomfort or irritation.

Can dog ears after a tummy tuck be corrected?
Yes, dog ears can often be corrected through minor revision surgery or non-surgical treatments, depending on their size and severity.

How long should I wait before considering correction of dog ears?
It is advisable to wait at least 6 to 12 months after surgery for swelling to fully subside before evaluating the need for any corrective procedures.

What can be done during the initial tummy tuck to prevent dog ears?
Surgeons can minimize the risk of dog ears by careful incision planning, precise skin excision, and proper tensioning of the closure during the initial tummy tuck.
Dog ears after a tummy tuck refer to small, puckered folds of excess skin that appear at the ends of the surgical incision, typically near the hips or lower abdomen. These protrusions resemble the floppy ears of a dog, hence the name. They are a common postoperative occurrence resulting from uneven tension or excess skin that was not fully removed during the procedure.

While dog ears are generally harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern for patients seeking a smooth, contoured abdominal appearance. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and patient preference, ranging from simple massage and time to allow natural healing, to minor revision surgeries that remove the excess skin and improve the contour.

Understanding the possibility of dog ears and discussing them with a qualified plastic surgeon before the tummy tuck can help set realistic expectations. Proper surgical technique and postoperative care are crucial in minimizing their occurrence. Ultimately, addressing dog ears effectively contributes to achieving the desired aesthetic results and patient satisfaction following a tummy tuck.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.