Sometimes we get embarrassed about our C-Section scars. We know that we shouldn’t, but sometimes we do. If previous treatments have not provided satisfactory results for your C-section scar, your doctor might suggest scar revision surgery.
What is a C-Section Scar Revision?
C-section scar revision or C-section scar repair, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of a scar resulting from a Cesarean section (C-section) delivery. During a C-section, an incision is made in the abdominal wall and uterus to deliver the baby. While C-sections are generally safe, scarring is a common outcome. C-section scars can vary in appearance, from thin and barely noticeable to thicker and more prominent. Some women may feel self-conscious about the appearance of their C-section scar, especially if it is raised, discolored, or causes discomfort.
C-cection scar removal is frequently used in situations where scars after a cesarean delivery remain red and raised (hypertrophic scar) and need to be reduced and paled so as to be less noticeable. A cosmetic procedure is a good option for treating hypertrophic scars or keloids. Or in a situation where the cesarean scar is depressed causing a flap of skin to form and envelope the scar. Sometimes the c-section scar revision procedure is done on its own, or can be part of a more comprehensive “Mommy Makeover”.
C-Section Scar Removal Procedures
Plastic surgeons can perform scar correction on the abdominal incision site, scraping away any dead skin and get the affected area to blend in with the skin around it. There are a couple of distinct procedures for removing C-Section scars depending on the nature of the scarring.
- Scar excision: The surgeon removes the old scar tissue and sutures the skin back together with fine, dissolvable stitches to create a smoother, less visible scar.
- Scar revision: This may involve techniques such as dermabrasion, laser therapy, or steroid injections to reduce the appearance of the scar, flatten it, and improve its texture and color.
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): In cases where the C-section scar is part of excess abdominal skin and tissue, a tummy tuck procedure may be performed. This involves removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles, which can also improve the appearance of the C-section scar.
In the case of a horizontal C-section incision the scar is removed via a laser and then a mini tummy tuck is performed to remove the excess skin and fat and give mommy a thinner sleeker tummy. Laser treatment can flatten scars and can soften and improve the appearance of the cesarean scar.
In the case of a vertical incision that reaches down past the pubis the scar is removed via a laser treatment and then laser liposuction is performed to remove the excess fat surrounding the scar tissue.
So, if you are wondering, what cosmetic surgery procedures can flatten the so-called “C-section pooch”, depending on the nature of the scar, C-section pooch removal may require a mini tummy tuck to tighten the abdominal muscles or a laser liposuction to remove the fat layer that overhangs the scar.
Sometimes, in very mild cases of scarring, and where no excess skin and fat has surrounded the area liposuctions and mini tummy tucks are not required, and removing just the scar is enough.
Silicone sheets applied directly on the incision site can slightly improve the apperance of the cesearen scar as well. Their use is not recommended before the scar healing process is completed.
Side Effects of C-Section Scar Removal
The procedure is known to cause mild discomfort, but it is reported to be much less painful than a full tummy tuck. The discomfort lasts for a few days after the procedure is performed and is very easily managed with pain medications. Although, the pain is in some cases mild enough that some mothers forego getting pain medication altogether
Getting your scars of cesarean delivery removed is a quick day surgery, usually only taking 4 to 5 hours in the clinic. Results are seen immediately after the procedure, but you won’t see the full results until about six weeks to 90 days after the procedure on average.
Full recovery from just scar removal ranges from one week to ten days. The healing process of scar removal in addition to liposuction or a mini tummy tuck usually takes about 2 weeks on average.
C-Section scar removal is a relatively easy, painless, and quick procedure. So there’s no reason to be concerned if you have scar lines that you want to have removed. You can be a mommy and have pre-mommy body. You deserve it.
Get Your Beautiful Body With C-Section Scar Removal
Giving birth to a child is a profound and transformative experience that brings both joy and challenges. It is a natural process through which a new life enters the world, and it involves a series of physical and emotional changes for the mother. To most women, the joy of holding their child for the first time isn’t comparable to anything else. However, many women struggle with the scars left after a C-Section.
Getting back to your old self is now possible with C-Section Scar Removal. There are a couple of distinct procedures for removing C-Section scars depending on the nature of the scarring.
If you’re considering scar removal, you need to take your time to choose the right experienced plastic surgeon for your needs. At Royal Centre of Plastic Surgery, we know the decision to go under is an important one, and we aim to make you feel comfortable from our initial consultation through your recovery. If you want to learn more about your options and the experience, schedule a consultation with our award winning board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dickie, and start looking like your pre-pregnancy self again!