Best way to Remove the C-section Shelf? (Photos)

Question

Hi 29 years old here. Gained nearly 60lbs with first pregnancy now within 5 lbs of pre pregnancy weight. Have had 3 c sections & my youngest is 4 months old, just considering options for the future. I hate the pooch and flap I have over my scar. I don't really want a huge scar from hip to hip. It's not THAT bothersome. Are there any options to just pull everything tighter and use the same scar I already have? I'm fine with my upper abdomen and belly button. I just hate the pooch.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

The scar can easily be revised with minimal extension beyond the existing scar. This can also be performed awake with light comfortable sedation. A longer scar along the bikini line will allow for more removal of extra skin and a better result.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

Hi Fit Mom!I think you need to figure out which bothers you more. Either the excess skin, or the prospect of a longer scar. In order to get the best result a tummy tuck would be the best option. This by definition has a longer scar than a c section incision. A mini tummy tuck just addresses the skin between the pubis and the belly button, and would give you a significant improvement of your abdominal contour without the downtime and scar found in traditional tummy tucks. The scar, however, would be nearly hip to hip. This will fade over a couple years time, and is easily hidden by under garments. I would let your body recover over the next year, and see how much your skin contracts. After that time I recommend you seek out a board certified plastic surgeon for advice. Congrats on your family!Matthew C Camp M.D.

Matthias Solomon, MD · Answer

Your best bet is a mini or full tummy tuck. See a board certified plastic surgeon in  your area.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Looks like you can benefit from a short scar tummy tuck with muscle tightening ,consult with a board certified PSGood luck!

Hetal Fichadia, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question, and congrats on the new baby. If your goal is just to get rid of the pooch, then limited removal of skin and fat will be a great option for you. Please consult a board certified plastic surgeon that you're comfortable with, for in-person evaluation when you are ready. Good luck to you!

Robert D. Wilcox, MD · Answer

Dear 29fitmom30,
You do not simply have a scar contracture, but you actually have drooping skin and the only way to remove excess skin is to excise it.  When you determine how far laterally the incision goes, it must go the same length as there is excess skin drooping.  That means you will have a lengthy scar; however, it can be easily concealed within your tan lines or panty lines.  Dr. Wilcox

Jaime Campos Leon, MD · Answer

Hello, thanks for your pictures and for your inquiry. Many women have the same issue that you are addressing right now and it is known how frustrating it is, there is no way to get rid of the sagging skin but to re-sect it. I understand that you don't want a scar, but it is the same that you have already but longer, it would make your tummy flat and your waist smaller. The scar will be hideable with your underwear or bikini. Please make sure that you and your surgeon are on the same page. Don't forget to discuss all your concerns, options and expectations thoroughly. Have a safe and pleasant PS Journey!Respectfully,Dr. Jaime Campos-LeonBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on the picture you are a good candidate for full Tummy tuck. Other option is mini TT which will not address BB and upper abdominal skin. Please consult with a board certified PS for evaluation.

Eric Minns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  From your pictures you look to be a great mini-abdominoplasty candidate.  This removes the skin through a single incision below your current c-section incision and improves the contour from your pubic region to the belly button.  A mini does not do anything above the belly button, but it doesn't look like you need it.  The recovery is far easier than a traditional tummy tuck.  The incision is most likely longer than your current incision but would not need to go very wide.  Hope this helps.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Good job with the weight loss; you have done a nice job achieving a good-looking abdominal wall (despite the "pooch") after pregnancies.Given your specific concerns, it sounds like a limited operation (lipectomy) to remove the excess skin/adipose tissue should just above your C-section scar (AKA the pooch)  will suffice when it comes to achieving your goals.  In other words, given your specific concerns/goals, a tummy tuck may be overkill (not necessary). My best advice: careful selection of plastic surgeon. Working together you'll come up with a good plan to achieve an outcome that you will be pleased with.  Best wishes.

Best way to Remove the C-section Shelf? (Photos)

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