Will sleeve gastrectomy leave a scar on the abdomen?

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, sleeve gastrectomy may leave scars on the abdomen. Sleeve gastrectomy is usually performed using laparoscopic techniques, which require several small incisions in the patient's umbilical area and abdomen. When the skin sustains trauma from surgical incisions, the body initiates a healing mechanism whereby fibroblasts secrete large amounts of collagen fibers to fill the wound, resulting in scar tissue formation.

Generally, gastric sleeve surgery will leave scars on the abdomen. The specific analysis is as follows:

Gastric sleeve surgery usually employs laparoscopic techniques. During the procedure, several small incisions are made in the patient's navel and abdomen to insert the laparoscope and other surgical instruments. When the skin sustains trauma from surgical incisions, the body initiates a healing mechanism whereby fibroblasts secrete large amounts of collagen fibers to fill the wound, thus forming scar tissue. Meanwhile, suturing is required after completion of the incision, and the presence of suture material may lead to scar formation around the incision site. Additionally, improper postoperative care can easily lead to wound infection, affect wound healing, and subsequently result in scarring.

During the recovery period, patients are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle, engage in moderate exercise, and avoid excessive fatigue, all of which help promote wound healing and reduce scar formation.