How To Reduce Wrinkling on Abdomen That Has Stretch Marks and Two C Section Scars

1. What are stretch marks? It is common for women to develop stretch marks, also known as striae, of the lower abdominal skin due to tearing of the dermal layer of skin due to stretching of skin that occurs during pregnancy.  These stretch marks form in the dermis which is the layer of skin just below the most superficial layer of skin called the epidermis. 

2. Treatment options for stretch marks? Because the deeper layer of skin is affected, known as the dermis, stretch marks are unable to be completely removed with topical creams. Additionally, laser therapy may sometimes lighten the color of the stretch marks, but will not completely remove these stretch marks either.  Therefore, excision, or removal, of skin that contains the stretch marks is the only definitive treatment.  For abdominal skin, a tummy tuck is a nice option.

3.  What can a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) do?  A tummy tuck is an operation that will remove excess skin, wrinkles, and stretch marks of the lower abdomen.  Patients are left with a new scar, located on the lower abdomen, usually at the level of a c-section scar or lower.  Additionally, often an incision is made around the belly button as well.  Under the skin and fat layers, the muscles may be tightened (plicated) as well to help provide an improved contour to the waist and abdomen.

I definitely recommend you set up a consultation with a plastic surgeon!

Thank you for the question.

Based on the description you may be an excellent candidate for the tummy tuck procedure. This is best done when you have completed pregnancies and when you have achieved a long-term stable weight. The procedure involves " repair"  of the abdominal wall muscles (plication)  as well as removal of “excess” skin and adipose tissue.

Often,  the tummy tuck incision can be placed at the level of the previous C-section scar.

I would suggest in-person consultation with a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.

I hope this helps.