I have a vertical scar from belly button to the top of my pelvic area. Has reopened twice and healed. Can it be removed? (Photo)

Question

My first incision was from an emergency appendix removal. Secondly the incision was reopened again to remove a ovarian cyst. And thirdly from a c section from my daughter. I really just want the best opinion. So please and thanks for your time.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There are many options for this but nothing will get you full improvement.  revision of scar has risks to reopen and make ti worse. you can use microneedling or fractional lasers or RF to help, medical tattooing would be a good option as well.  Please see a scarring expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question and photograph.  Though no scar can ever be removed, they often can be exchanged for another.  In your case the best situation would be that you have sufficient laxity of your stomach after pregnancy that the vertical incision can be exchanged for a lower horizontal one that can be covered by your clothing.  Hope this helps.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  Based on
your photograph, you may benefit from an abdominal surgical scar revision.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear iriluv,based on your photo, it looks like your scar can be improved after a revision surgery which should make your scar less visible. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I have a vertical scar from belly button to the top of my pelvic area. Has reopened twice and healed. Can it be removed? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Scar optimization

Answer: Scar optimization

Answer: Scar revision

Answer: Scar revision

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I have a vertical scar from belly button to the top of my pelvic area. Has reopened twice and healed. Can it be removed? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Scar optimization

Answer: Scar optimization

Answer: Scar revision

Answer: Scar revision

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.