7 Things to Know About Liposuction Scars

Posted February 11, 2026 in Liposuction

Now that you’ve decided that undergoing liposuction is definitely in your future, you’ve probably already spent plenty of time picturing your smoother contours and more sculpted physique. However, you’ve probably also wondered if the resulting scars are going to be noticeable. After all, the point of the procedure is to look better, not trade stubborn fat for incision lines you’ll worry about later. In this blog, we’ll go over some of the most commonly asked questions about scarring after liposuction so you know what to expect and can enjoy your results without hesitation.

5 Min Read:

Table of Contents

• Will I Have Scars After Liposuction Surgery?
• How Big Are Liposuction Scars?
• How Many Liposuction Scars Will I Have?
• Where Will My Liposuction Scars Be Located?
• Factors That Determine the Visibility of Liposuction Scars
• What Are the Best Ways to Minimize Liposuction Scars?
• How Long Does It Take for Liposuction Scars to Fade?

Will I Have Scars After Liposuction Surgery?

Yes, liposuction is a surgical procedure that results in small scars, because tiny incisions are needed to insert the cannula. However, the reality is that liposuction scars are usually far smaller and less noticeable than you might imagine—typically less than ¼ of an inch long. And, when properly cared for, the scars from liposuction are usually incredibly subtle and nearly invisible once healed.

How Big Are Liposuction Scars?

As mentioned above, liposuction scars are tiny—often just a few millimeters long. Most are comparable in size to a freckle or small mole. Because the incisions are so short, they usually heal into faint marks that blend well into the surrounding skin. 

How Many Liposuction Scars Will I Have?

The number of scars you have after liposuction depends on the number of areas treated and the method or device used. Dr. Chin employs several liposuction techniques, including super-wet, tumescent, laser-assisted lipolysis (Smartlipo®) and power-assisted liposuction (PAL). Most treatment areas require one to three small incisions, so you will usually end up with only a handful of tiny scars overall.

Where Will My Liposuction Scars Be Located?

Surgeons carefully place incisions in discreet locations when they perform liposuction. Common incision locations include along the bikini line, under the breasts, or near the navel. Dr. Chin does his best to conceal liposuction incisions in the natural shadows and creases of your body, or to place them in areas typically covered by clothing to effectively hide any resulting scars. 

Factors That Determine the Visibility of Liposuction Scars

Several key factors influence how noticeable your liposuction scars may be, including:

Your Skin Type and Elasticity

Thicker, more elastic skin often heals more smoothly, while thinner or less elastic skin may show scars more easily.

Genetics

Some people are naturally prone to developing darker skin pigmentation, thicker scars, or raised scar tissue, regardless of the incision size.

Liposuction Technique

Smaller incisions, careful cannula placement, and gentle tissue manipulation all help reduce trauma and minimize scarring.

Incision placement: When incisions are strategically placed in your body’s natural creases or easily hidden areas, they are much less noticeable once healed. The area of the body treated can also matter, as some regions heal better than others.

Postoperative Care

The appearance of your scars is greatly influenced by whether you follow Dr. Chin’s wound-care instructions. Keep your incisions protected during healing and avoid irritation.

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking, poor nutrition, and dehydration can slow the healing process after liposuction and make your scars more visible over time.

What Are the Best Ways to Minimize Liposuction Scars?

The most important factor in keeping liposuction scars as subtle as possible is proper and diligent incision care. Keeping your incision sites clean and protected during early healing helps prevent complications like infection or poor wound healing. Once the incisions are completely healed and Dr. Chin gives you the go-ahead, you can apply silicone sheets or scar gels to help flatten and soften scars over time. 

Sun protection is especially critical—UV exposure can permanently darken your scars and make them more noticeable, so covering the area or using sunscreen is essential in reducing their visibility. You can also encourage your body to heal more quickly by avoiding smoking, staying hydrated, and following activity restrictions. In some cases, professional scar treatments such as laser therapy or micro-needling may further improve the appearance of your liposuction scars once healing is complete.

How Long Does It Take for Liposuction Scars to Fade?

Like any scar, your liposuction scars will improve over time. In the first few weeks, scars usually appear pink or slightly raised. They will gradually soften and lighten over the next three to six months. Most scars continue to fade for up to a year, often becoming barely noticeable. Patience and consistent scar care are essential to ensure optimal healing.

Explore Your Liposuction Options in Fresno

Now that you’re well-versed on the ins and outs of scarring after liposuction, it’s time to take the next step in your body contouring journey. To learn more about liposuction, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Chin today by calling (559) 435-9646 or completing the online contact form.