Suni Lee’s back scars are related to two separate medical events: a congenital midline spinal defect called a diastematomyelia and the surgery required to address it. In childhood, she underwent a surgical repair that left visible scarring along the lower back. This article explains what diastematomyelia is, why surgery becomes necessary, how the scar forms, and what modern techniques aim to achieve in terms of healing and long term function.
What diastematomyelia is and why it matters
Diastematomyelia is a rare congenital condition in which the spinal cord is split, often by a piece of bone or a fibrous band. Most people are born with the condition but may not show symptoms for years. When problems appear, they can include changes in skin sensation, muscle weakness, foot deformities, or a tethered spinal cord that stretches when the spine bends. In Suni Lee’s case, the condition was discovered during childhood and monitored with neurological exams and imaging. Surgery is considered when there is evidence of progression, neurological decline, or a high risk of future complications.
Why surgery becomes necessary
Not everyone with diastematomyelia needs an operation. Doctors typically recommend surgery when the spinal cord is tethered, when bony or fibrous bands are causing symptoms, or when there are changes on scans that suggest the lesion is getting worse. The goal is to prevent further neurological damage, reduce pain, and stop the progression of deformities. For a young athlete, preserving function and avoiding worsening symptoms is a priority that often outweighs concerns about scarring.
How the back scar forms
The scar is a natural result of the surgical approach used to reach the spine. Because the procedure requires access to the spinal canal, the surgeon makes an incision along the midline of the lower back, cuts through skin and tissue, and then closes the wound in layers. Sutures, staples, or surgical glue are used to close the skin. As the body heals, collagen replaces temporary repair materials and a permanent line, or scar, remains. The visibility of the line depends on healing biology, tension on the wound, and postoperative care.
Surgical technique options
Surgeons can choose slightly different approaches that influence scarring, including the location of the incision and how the skin is closed. Key details include the type of closure, use of absorbable versus non absorbable sutures, and whether layered closure is used to reduce tension on the skin.
- Midline incision with layered closure to minimize tension.
- Use of fine, absorbable sutures beneath the skin followed by external closure.
- Postoperative measures such as silicone sheets or ointments to help scars mature more smoothly.
Recovery and scar care in the first weeks
Immediately after surgery, the back is covered with dressings, and pain is managed with medication. Early activity is limited, and patients are taught how to protect the incision while walking and sitting. Wound checks ensure the edges stay together and any signs of infection are caught early. As healing advances, the focus shifts to managing itching, firmness, and color changes.
Typical recovery milestones
| Timeframe | Expected milestone | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| First 1–2 weeks | Incision closed, minimal drainage, pain controlled | Clinical guideline |
| 2–6 weeks | Stitches or staples removed, gentle walking increased | Clinical guideline |
| 6–12 weeks | Scab falls off, scar may appear red and raised | Clinical guideline |
| 3–12 months | Scar gradually softens and fades | Clinical guideline |
Long term outlook and appearance changes
Over time, a surgical scar typically becomes less noticeable. It may stay a slightly different color or texture compared to surrounding skin, but it usually fades to a pale line that can be concealed with clothing. For most people, the benefits of preventing neurological complications far outweigh the cosmetic concerns. Suni Lee’s back scars are expected to follow this general pattern, remaining as faint marks rather than prominent ridges or wide discoloration.
When to contact a doctor after surgery
Certain signs after surgery should prompt immediate medical attention, including increasing redness, spreading warmth, swelling that worsens, persistent drainage, fever, or new numbness and weakness. Prompt evaluation can address issues such as infection or poor wound healing before they lead to more serious problems.