When Cesarean section is the best option for child birth, it requires a surgical incision across the lower abdomen. While some C-section scars are low enough to hide beneath the bikini line, not everyone has a discreet scar. If you had a C-section and are unhappy with the appearance of your scar, there are options available for C-section scar removal. Dr. Aviva Preminger is a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers C-section scar revision at her practice in UES Manhattan.
C-section scars can vary significantly in both position and how they heal. Some surgeons use a horizontal incision, which is easier to conceal below the bikini line, while others may opt for a vertical incision that extends from the pubic area to the belly button, making it more visible. Regardless of the incision type, not all C-section scars heal the same way. While a flat, smooth scar is ideal, some scars may become hypertrophic, meaning they are raised or thickened, while others may cause an indentation, leading to a “shelf” effect or a bulging area above the scar, especially after pregnancy. This shelf, along with the scar, can result in a malformed abdomen that may be difficult to improve with exercise alone.
To address vertical, hypertrophic, indented scars, or the post-pregnancy shelf, Dr. Preminger offers scar revision surgery. This procedure helps smooth out the abdomen, improve the appearance of the skin, and create a more aesthetically pleasing contour.
Before & After
C-Section Scar Surgery
While some C-section scars can be minimized with laser treatments or topical medications, vertical and noticeable scars may require surgical revision. The technique used depends on the position of the scar and other contributing factors. A horizontal scar that is located too high can be moved lower to below the bikini line. For raised or thick scars, revision surgery to remove scar tissue to flatten and minimize the scar can be used. Indented scars may require fat and tissue removal around the scar to flatten the stomach.
Some patients may benefit from a tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck with their C-section scar removal procedure. This can remove the scar tissue, move the incision lower and tighten the skin on the abdomen. Liposuction or other fat removal procedures can be used to flatten an indented scar and the stomach for an overall improved appearance.
Each C-section scar removal procedure is personalized to the patient and their desired result. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your C-section scar, there are solutions to improve your abdomen post-pregnancy. Contact us at Aviva Preminger, M.D. to schedule a scar revision consultation with Dr. Preminger. Call our office on Park Avenue in NYC to book your appointment.