Tummy Tuck Through C-section Scar, Is This Possible?

Kristin, Yes, tummy tucks frequently are performed at the level of a C-section scar. The scar is removed and replaced by the tummy tuck scar in most cases. If you can make the time with two small children, you may want to go ahead with your  in-office consultations  to discuss your particular needs and learn as much as you can so you can plan appropriately for the future when you are ready to proceed.  .

You will see a lot of tummy tuck scars that are too high.  They are best positioned low, within the bikini line.  I always make my tummy tuck incision below an existing C-section scar (the old scar gets discarded along with the extra abdominal skin) so that the patient is left with just one scar, not two.  Usually the scar ends up at the same level as the original C-section scar, but it's longer of course.  You're right, it does not matter too much if it is longer as long as it's kept down low.  You may wonder why every surgeon doesn't do this.  The reason is that it's a little more difficult.  The operating table needs to be maximally flexed and a deep "anchoring" layer of sutures is needed to keep the scar from drifting up on to the abdomen later.  Experienced surgeons know these tricks.  Look at before and after photos before you select your surgeon to make sure the scar is where you want it.  I've attached a link to my own results in case you want to look at some examples.  You are asking excellent questions.

We are seeing women now with much lower C section scars and I always go below it to remove it..and it does make it challenging! But bikini's are also being worn lower as well....The biggest risk is that the patient may end up with a small vertical incision down by her pubis, which usually heals really well....but that is the biggest risk...

In a conventional abdominoplasty a C-section scar will be removed as part of the operation.

The answer is YES, your C section scar may be used for mini-tummy tuck, or even full tummy tuck, depending upon other features of your anatomy and your desired result.

As you can tell from the replies to your question, plastic surgeons use the existing location of the C-section scar whenever possible even when it is lower than usual. I believe the use of progressive tension sutures is one way to keep the scar as low as possible while limiting the tension on the closure for a well-healed scar. If it is low and the umbilicus (belly button) is high, then it may mean an upside-down "T" closure is necessary but this is better than a scar too high.

Thank you for this very important question. In my opinion, the proper abdominoplasty scar especially in a lateral tension abdominoplasty is below your C-section scar. I am sure you've seen a lot of pictures in traditional abdominoplasties where the scar is generally too high. I place my scars extremely low as to avoid this issue and to be able to camouflage the scar within low riding bikinis. Please seek a board-certified plastic surgeon with expertise in this area and could show you before-and-after pictures with similar results as to what you're planning to achieve. 

The short answer is it depends on how much extra skin you have. A consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon should be the first step. I like to keep the scar low so not seen in most regular bathing suits. I hope this helps! Good Luck!

The use of your c-scection scar is typical of a tummy tuck.  The pictures that you may hav e viewed may have been designed differently.

Dr. ES

and it would take an examination to determine if yours could be done... general rule is if your scar is 2 inches or more above your genitals, it will be removed with the procedure.  If your belly button cannot be pulled down to the scar, you could end up with a vertical scar as well.  Discuss your concerns and goals with your chosen surgeon.