Tummy Tuck Using Same Incision for C-section?

                  It’s
not unusual for patients who are undergoing abdominoplasty to have given birth
by C-section.  The vast majority of
C section scars are oriented transversely and are located at the level of the
pubic hairline.  Rarely these
incisions are vertically oriented and in most cases are
entirely removed during abdominoplasty when they are located below the level of
the umbilicus.

                   When
C-section incisions are oriented transversely, the abdominoplasty incision is
made slightly below the C-section incision.  The C-section scar is totally removed and replaced by a
longer incision that’s located slightly lower than the original C-section scar.

                   It’s
important that the abdominoplasty incision not be made above the C-section
scar.  In some cases this can
result in loss of blood supply to the intervening tissue and can potentially
result in wound healing problems.

                   If
you’ve had a previous C-section and are concerned about abdominoplasty incision
placement it’s important to consult a board certified plastic surgeon.  This surgeon should be able to
formulate an appropriate treatment plan for your condition.

Hello Mommyto3,

Thank you for your question regarding the use of the same incision for a tummy tuck and C-section.

During a tummy tuck, an incision is made underneath the C-section scar. This incision is typically placed several millimeters or several centimeters below the C-section scar, depending on the position of the C-section scar and the amount of skin that needs to be removed. The entire C-section scar is revised during a tummy tuck, ensuring a more aesthetically pleasing result.

Regarding your specific questions, there is no state regulation limiting the amount of skin that can be removed during a tummy tuck. However, there are restrictions on the volume of liposuction that can be performed. You mentioned that you gained a significant amount of weight. It would be beneficial to know your current weight to provide a more tailored recommendation. If you are obese, it is crucial to lose weight before undergoing a tummy tuck. Ideally, your BMI should be less than 30 to achieve the best surgical outcome.

In summary, the tummy tuck incision can effectively revise your C-section scar, and there are no specific restrictions on the amount of skin that can be removed. It is in your best interest to lose as much weight as possible before surgery. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in treating patients with a history of weight fluctuations and C-sections.

Good luck. I hope I’ve answered your question regarding tummy tuck procedures and considerations.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

However the length of the tummy tuck scar will have to be longer than your E-section scar.  Your need to lose weight would depend on how much you have gained.  There is no limit on how much can be removed when is come to skin.  Each plastic surgeon decides the right amount at the time of the surgical markings.  There is a limit as to how much fat can be removed with liposuction.

When an abdominoplasty is performed in a patient who has a previous C-section scar the scar is usually excised and removed as part of the lower abdominal incision.  This keeps the scar in a good position for clothing and swim wear although the scar will be longer.

You certainly can use a similar incision and actually place it lower than your orginal c-section scar but given the amount of laxity you describe, it is most likely that you will require a longer incision. C-sections scars tend to average about 1215cm whereas most full tummy tuck incisions average 20-40cm.