C-section shelf - Mini tuck, full tummy tuck, lipo, or scar revision? (Photos)

Question

I had 2 kids both via c-section. 36 female, with a bmi of 25. My main concern is the c-shelf. I am unhappy with the bulging there no matter how much weight I lose. I am not sure if I should do Mini tuck, full tummy tuck, or just lipo or a scar revision. I read that a scar revision might release the bulge.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you are wanting the most complete result you can consider a standard tummy tuck.  This would remove excess fat and skin as well as correct abdominal wall laxity.  The c-section scar would be removed as part of the procedure.  If you solely want to improve the c-section scar you can consider a revision but the rest of your abdomen would remain unchanged.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You appear to be a good candidate for a mini tummy tuck.  This will tighten up the skin below the umbilicus, excise the scar and lower the scar towards the pubic area.  It will also remove the anterior bulging.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

This is a very common concern after C-sections. Here's a breakdown of your surgical options for treating a C-section shelf, based on your profile:
With a BMI of 25 and history of 2 C-sections, your options depend on whether the issue is primarily skin, fat, muscle, or scar tethering.
OPTION 1: Scar Revision Only
Best for: Minimal fat or loose skin, tight muscles, just a visible shelf where scar pulls skin in.
•	Removes and re-closes the C-section scar to “release” the shelf
•	May improve appearance if the problem is mostly tethering or poor scar healing
Limitations:
Won’t address excess skin, fat, or muscle separation. Often not enough on its own if there’s bulging.
Pros: Less invasive, faster recovery
Cons: Limited improvement if the problem is more than just the scar
OPTION 2: Liposuction
Best for: Good skin elasticity, minor bulge caused by fat — no loose skin or muscle separation.
•	Removes localized fat deposits through small incisions
•	Can be combined with scar revision
Limitations:
Won’t tighten loose skin or fix abdominal wall laxity.
Pros: Minimally invasive, less downtime
Cons: Can make shelf look worse if skin isn’t tight
OPTION 3: Mini Tummy Tuck
Best for: Issues below the belly button only — small pouch, mild loose skin, possible minor muscle laxity.
•	Removes extra skin and some fat below the navel
•	Can include muscle tightening below the belly button
•	Scar is similar to a C-section scar but usually longer and flatter
Pros: Shorter scar than full tummy tuck, faster recovery
Cons: Doesn’t address anything above the belly button
OPTION 4: Full Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Best for: Loose skin, bulging from muscle separation (diastasis), or more dramatic changes.
•	Removes excess skin and fat from above and below the belly button
•	Tightens abdominal muscles from rib cage down
•	Reposition the belly button
Pros: Most comprehensive and long-lasting results
Cons: Longer scar, longer recovery, higher cost
Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to evaluate your skin laxity, muscle separation, fat distribution, and the quality of your C-section scar. They can physically assess which option would give the flattest, smoothest result.

John J. Obi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry and photos.  If you are not planning on any more pregnancies
then you could consider a 'mini' or lower abdominoplasty which should take care of the shelf.  For the best results though a full abdominoplasty would be recommended to correct the mid and upper abdominal laxity and redundancy.  Consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for additional information.
Good luck.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on the series of nicely post photos, the real decision depends on exactly exactly what outcome you are desiring. If you want the flat as possible stomach with correction of the superior C-section bowl bulge then a full tummy tuck with muscle repair is indicated. That fee would range from $8000-$12,000. If you would like just a revision of the lower abdomen only then an extended C-section scar revision is indicated or as you say a mini tummy tuck that fee is $5000-$8000.. Additional option would be the extended mini tummy tuck or extended C-section scar revision with liposuction of the abdomen waste of flanks that fee is $8000-$12,000. So best of virtual consult with to get a better understanding of your desires and therefore you have a better decision-making ability. Regards.

C-section shelf - Mini tuck, full tummy tuck, lipo, or scar revision? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Lower Abdominal shelf

Answer: Lower Abdominal shelf

Answer: Post C-section scar bulge options

Answer: Post C-section scar bulge options

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C-section shelf - Mini tuck, full tummy tuck, lipo, or scar revision? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Lower Abdominal shelf

Answer: Lower Abdominal shelf

Answer: Post C-section scar bulge options

Answer: Post C-section scar bulge options

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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.