Gastric sleeve surgery has helped thousands of people overcome obesity and regain their health—but for many, the fear of visible scarring remains a concern. Whether you’re considering surgery or have already gone through the process, you may be wondering:
Will I have scars after gastric sleeve surgery? How noticeable are they? Do they fade over time?
In this guide, we’ll answer these common questions, show you what to expect, and explain how scar appearance can be minimized with proper care and technique.
What Causes Scarring After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after any surgery. When your surgeon makes incisions in your abdomen to perform the sleeve gastrectomy, your body produces collagen to repair the tissue. This healing process often leaves behind marks on the skin.
The Surgical Technique and Incision Points
Most gastric sleeve procedures today are performed laparoscopically. This means the surgeon creates several small incisions—usually 4 to 5—to insert a camera and surgical instruments.
In rare cases, open surgery may be used, which involves a larger single incision and is more likely to leave a prominent scar.
Laparoscopic vs. Open Surgery: Impact on Scarring
Laparoscopic surgery: Multiple small scars (usually 0.5–1 cm) that fade over time.
Open surgery: A single long scar (10–15 cm) that may remain more visible, especially in patients prone to keloid formation.
Number and Size of Scars After Gastric Sleeve
The standard laparoscopic technique typically leaves:
4 to 5 small scars across the abdomen
One larger incision site (1–1.5 cm) for removing the stomach portion
These scars usually lighten and flatten within 6 to 12 months.
How Do Gastric Sleeve Scars Look Over Time?
Scar Appearance: Immediately After Surgery vs. Months Later
First few weeks: Scars may appear red, swollen, or slightly raised.
3–6 months later: Most patients notice a clear reduction in color and thickness.
1 year and beyond: Scars often become flat, pale, and barely noticeable.
What Is a Normal Healing Timeline?
| Time After Surgery | Scar Appearance |
|---|---|
| 1–2 weeks | Red, healing wounds with scabs |
| 1–3 months | Pink or light red scars, beginning to flatten |
| 6–12 months | Faded, less visible marks |
| 1+ year | Often barely noticeable or completely blended with skin |
Healing varies based on skin type, genetics, and post-op care.
How to Minimize Scars After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Proper wound care in the early stages can significantly improve long-term scar appearance.
Wound Care Tips in the First Few Weeks
Keep incisions clean and dry
Avoid direct sun exposure
Wear loose, breathable clothing
Follow all surgeon-provided instructions
Recommended Creams, Silicone Sheets, and Treatments
Silicone gel sheets or ointments (widely recommended by surgeons)
Scar-reducing creams (vitamin E, onion extract, etc.)
Prescription topical corticosteroids (for hypertrophic/keloid scars)
When to Consider Medical Scar Treatments
Laser therapy: Reduces pigment and flattens raised scars
Steroid injections: Effective for thick or keloid scars
Scar revision surgery: In rare cases, used to improve severe scarring
Are There Any Scars After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Yes, gastric sleeve surgery does leave scars—but they are usually small, fade over time, and can become barely noticeable with proper care. Since the procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, most patients have 4 to 5 tiny incisions on their abdomen. These incisions are often placed strategically, such as around the belly button or along natural skin folds, to reduce visibility. Over the months following surgery, the scars tend to flatten, lose their color, and blend with the surrounding skin. For many patients, they eventually become difficult to detect at all.
Will My Gastric Sleeve Scars Be Visible Long-Term?
Factors That Affect Long-Term Visibility
Skin tone and genetics: Darker skin types may be more prone to pigmentation
Age: Younger patients may develop more prominent scars due to stronger collagen production
Smoking and alcohol: These can delay wound healing and increase scarring
Before & After: What Most Patients Experience
Most people find that their scars become soft and flat over time. Many are surprised to find that, after a year, they can hardly locate the scars—especially those made in or near the belly button.
Can I Hide Gastric Sleeve Scars?
Swimsuit Season Worries: What to Expect
Laparoscopic scars are usually small enough to be hidden under swimwear or light makeup. Bikini-line positioning of some incisions helps in further concealing them.
Clothing, Makeup & Cosmetic Tips
Scar-covering foundations (color-correcting formulas)
Lightweight longwear clothing for sun protection
Medical-grade silicone patches under clothes
Why Istanbul Is a Popular Destination for Scar-Minimized Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Many patients choose Istanbul not only for its affordability but also for the high level of surgical expertise and modern techniques used.
Minimally Invasive Techniques in Turkey
Hospitals in Istanbul, including our center, primarily perform laparoscopic and robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomies. These methods are designed to minimize trauma—and therefore minimize scars.
Experienced Bariatric Surgeons in Istanbul
Bariatric surgery teams in Istanbul are experienced in minimizing incision size and optimizing healing. If you’re looking for an affordable yet expert approach, Istanbul offers a globally competitive option.
👉 Learn more on our Gastric Sleeve in Istanbul page.
Final Thoughts
Scarring after gastric sleeve surgery is a common concern—but one that is often overestimated. With modern laparoscopic techniques, expert surgeons, and proper post-op care, most scars fade significantly and become unnoticeable over time.
Whether you’re preparing for surgery or already on the road to recovery, understanding how your body heals is a big step toward peace of mind.
