Indentation after my 2nd C Section. What is causing this and can it be fixed? (photos)

Question

I've had my 2nd C section 3 1/2 mos ago and it left a big indentation in my lower left belly, just above the c section incision. My OB doesn't know why it happened and she's never had this issue before so she told me to inquire with a PS. She's guessing that it's old scar tissue from my previous c section back in 2013. I'm 45, 5'1" @ 145 lbs currently so I would like to lose at least 15-20 lbs more before I think about TT. Would I need a full TT with muscle repair? Could a TT fix my issue?

Robert J. Spies, MD · Answer

Good morning and thank you for using RealSelf.It appears that you have some scar tissue under the skin at the indentation site that is causing the deformity.  Possibly from previous surgery.  The loose skin above that area makes it look worse.  In regards to a possible tummy tuck, you seem to be an excellent candidate.  I do believe you would benefit from a complete tummy tuck that does include tightening of the rectus muscles.  That will certainly give you a flatter tummy.  Removing the excess skin and fat is also part of the tummy tuck.  Results are dramatic with a more toned abdominal wall.  Of note, your c section scar would be removed as well as all of the scar tissue causing the present problem.Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon will provide you with not only a great result, but minimal risk of complications.  Dr Spies

Ramin Behmand, MD, FACS · Answer

As plastic surgeons, we see indentations following C-Sections frequently.  The problem is generally 2 fold; 1) with each pregnancy the abdominal skin stretches and more laxity is created above the incision, and 2) When the C-Section incision is closed, if the various layers of the fascia are not fully reapproximated to one another, the incision can scar down to the deep fascia. In other words, there is fat beneath the skin above and below the scar, but not at the scar.  This causes the indented appearance. Combined with the increased laxity of the skin, then the problem is very noticeable.  Dr. B.

Jonathan C. Weinrach, MD, FACS · Answer

A full tummy tuck with muscle repair would be the best solution for this.  Besides your scar/indentation, a tummy tuck will greatly improve the overall contour of your abdomen.  Your result should be even better if you complete your weight loss as you are planning.  Hope that helps!

Stuart A. Linder, MD, FACS · Answer

A tummy tuck is a good solution to your problem. The C section scar can be released and scar tissue excised. This is very common in many of our tummy tuck patients.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your pictures.  This issue is due to scarring beneath the surface of the healed incision.  A tummy tuck can improve this area. Please seek consultation from several board certified plastic surgeons.

Daniel Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your questions and photos.  I'm sorry to see that you have distortion of your lower abdomen after your C-section.  I have seen this type of scarring after C-section multiple times in practice, though the amount of scarring/distortion that you demonstrate is more significant than most and also asymmetric.  After reviewing your photos, likely you would be a good candidate for correction of your lower abdominal contour with a mini tummy tuck along with some judicious liposuction contouring, however that determination can only be made after a comprehensive evaluation and physical exam.  Please seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area who has experience with body contouring.  Best wishes!

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Great question.  There are a number of solutions for the indentation in the C-section incision.  The easiest solution is to excise (cut out) the old scar as well as a little (1/2 inch) of the surrounding tissue and suture it up again.  When the deeper tissues are closed as well as the skin the indentation does not form.  You appear to have some loose skin from your pregnancy as well so this is likely adding a little to that overlap appearance.  By excising some of the tissue near the incision this can be addressed as well.  The other option is to have a tummy tuck.  Depending on what you would like to accomplish either a full or mini-tummy tuck might be appropriate.  This would correct the c-section appearance as well as tighten the abdominal skin to create a firmer, flatter abdominal appearance.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Jamie Moenster, DO · Answer

Thank you for your questions and photos.  It looks like the left side of your scar is tethering to the underlying tissue.  Occasionally massage to the area will improve this and loosen the tethering some.  Other options include a scar revision to fix just that area or a full tummy tuck to repair the muscle, remove the loose skin and contour the abdomen.  You will have a better result as you lose more weight.  Good luck!

Australia Fragoso-Baez, MD · Answer

You will need to get a personal consultation with a certified plastic surgeon but it looks like you can get solved the indentation with a tummy tuck plus you can get muscle repair and lipo at the same time to improve your body look. Good luck!

Joshua B. Hyman, MD · Answer

The problem you dexcribe is caused by the scar adhering to the muscle fascia below which then causes the ridge. You do not need a full abdominoplasty to correct it. I perform scar revisions on these all the time to release and revise the scar. Scar revision is the most common procedure done by plastic surgeons in the United States according to insurance data. Best of luck. Hope this was helpfull

Indentation after my 2nd C Section. What is causing this and can it be fixed? (photos)

Answers (12)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

I am having leg and foot cramping when I wake up in the morning and try to stretch my legs. Is this normal?

What is this pimple looking thing in my belly button? (Photo)

What can cause seroma a month after tummy tuck?

Can laugh hurt muscle repair?

Tummy tuck, BBL, fat transfer to butt and hips all in round 1. Is it safe?

Indentation/Cavity at drain site? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS