Cutting Along C-Section Scar During Tummy Tuck?

Question

I am thinking of having a Tummy Tuck. However, on almost all the before and after photos I've viewed (whether here in this site or elsewhere), the cut line seems to be too high.  I've been through a C-Section and the cut is low--way, way below the bikini line, and maybe just about an inch from my groin. Can they follow the C-Section cut again for the Tummy Tuck?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello redlady. Thank you for your question regarding the incision placement during a tummy tuck in relation to your C-section scar.

It's quite common for patients to have concerns about the placement of the incision, especially if they have had a C-section. The good news is that during a tummy tuck, it's entirely possible to use the existing C-section scar to make the incision. In fact, this is often preferred as it can minimize the number of scars on your abdomen.

During the tummy tuck procedure, the plastic surgeon can make the incision along your existing C-section scar, extending it as needed to remove excess skin and tighten the abdominal muscles. This approach not only helps in maintaining a low incision line but also helps in removing any unsightly scar tissue from the previous C-section.

The placement of the tummy tuck incision can be customized to follow the lower, bikini-line placement you prefer. This way, the incision remains low, typically below the bikini line, making it easily concealable with underwear or swimwear.

It's crucial to communicate your preferences clearly with your plastic surgeon during the consultation. Make sure they understand your desire to keep the incision low and follow the line of your C-section scar. An experienced board-certified plastic surgeon will be able to accommodate your request and plan the surgery accordingly.

Good luck with your procedure, and I hope you achieve the results you desire.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Reza Nabavian, MD · Answer

Generally, a C-section scar can be optimally included in the abdominoplasty incision as most women currently prefer low-cut jeans, etc.
The only limitation is if there is not a lot of skin to be removed with abdominoplasty. The skin from the belly button all the way down needs to be removed in order to eliminate the scar from existing belly button other wise there will be a little vertical scar. In this situation, the tummy tuck incision needs to be placed higher in order to avoid the vertical scar!

Karen M. Horton, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck scar can be designed a number of different ways, depending on your body type, the style of underwear or bathing suits you wear, and previous scars you may have in the area of surgery.

	These days, low-cut styles of jeans and swim suits are in fashion, and low-placed scars are common with abdominoplasties.

	However, in the 1980s, tummy tuck scars were often designed to fall within the lines of high ("French"-cut) bathing suit styles.

	Like fashion and hemlines, the design of incisions in Plastic Surgery will change from time to time!

	Discuss with your Plastic Surgeon the styles of clothing you currently wear and the desired location of your scar placement.

	In my practice, I usually design scars to be as low as possible, on my patients' request. However, I am open to suggestions for scar placement, based on the factors mentioned above (clothing styles, bikini bottoms, and personal preference).

	The area of a C-section scar is the perfect location for most tummy tuck scars.

	The old scar will be removed, and the tummy tuck will create a fresh, well-closed, slightly longer scar in its place.

	A tummy tuck is an exciting procedure! Good luck to you.

Jack Gelman, MD (retired) · Answer

I always utilize the low C-section scar, and occassionly lower it further. The limitation is the amount of skin excess that you have. This can not be assessed well with photographs on-line, but should be determined at a consultation.
Best of luck, and find a board-certified plastic surgeon that you trust.

Cutting Along C-Section Scar During Tummy Tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Low C-section scar for a tummy tuck

Answer: Low C-section scar for a tummy tuck

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Cutting Along C-Section Scar During Tummy Tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Low C-section scar for a tummy tuck

Answer: Low C-section scar for a tummy tuck

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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.