My c-section scar still burns and hurts after 7 years. Will a tummy tuck help or worsen this? Will insurance pay?

Question

I've had 2 c-sections, my last 7 years ago. I have a decent amount of sagging and overhang skin. I understand there is a surgery to cut out scar tissue, but in wonder if a tummy tuck would make more sense? If so, will insurance cover it if it's aiding the reduction of pain due to my c section? I'd hate to get 2 surgeries. Is there any circumstance that an insurance company will cover a tummy tuck?

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

Insurance companies will not cover tummy tucks even if it is for a symptomatic scar. The only thing they would pay for is a scar revision (which doesn't achieve anything like a tummy tuck for your appearance).I would suggest investigating a tummy tuck. No one can guarantee that it will improve the pain (just like a scar revision may or may not improve the pain), but at least you will get the added benefits of a tummy tuck.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.If the scar hurts it might be a keloid.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the problem you are experiencing. Good advice would necessitate a complete history and physical examination to determine  the most likely source of discomfort/pain. If the C-section scar is the culprit, it is possible that removal of the scar ( either with a scar revision or tummy tuck surgery) may be helpful. Given the presence of "overhanging skin", it sounds like you may be a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery in general.  Generally speaking, the “ideal” patient for tummy tuck surgery is one who has completed pregnancies, is psycho socially/emotionally/financially stable, has an excellent social support system surrounding him/her, is capable of arranging enough recovery time, does not smoke and who has reached a long-term stable weight.  You will likely find that insurance companies will not cover the tummy tuck procedure. I hope this, and the attached link, helps.  Best wishes.

Alan Muskett, MD · Answer

Sometimes releasing a tethered scar will help chronic discomfort.  No guarantee certainly, but I've seen it often enough that I wouldn't discount it.  Getting insurance to pay for it is unlikely,  frankly.  If you really want a tummy tuck tell your SO to forget the motorcycle and get you that abdominoplasty.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, cassiamyers.  If you have handling skin, you may be a good candidate for tummy tuck.  c-section scar can be removed and replaced by tummy tuck scar.  Tummy tuck is an elective cosmetic surgery; tummy tuck is not covered by insurance.  If your c-section scar is hypertrophic, scar excision may be covered by insurance.  Please consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to see whether you are a good candidate for tummy tuck.

My c-section scar still burns and hurts after 7 years. Will a tummy tuck help or worsen this? Will insurance pay?

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Answer: C Section Burner

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My c-section scar still burns and hurts after 7 years. Will a tummy tuck help or worsen this? Will insurance pay?

Answers (10)

Answer: C Section Burner

Answer: C Section Burner

Answer: Tummy tuck vs. c-section scar

Answer: Tummy tuck vs. c-section scar

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.