Ask a Surgeon - Tummy Tuck - I’ve had three c-sections and I now want to have a tummy tuck. Will scar...

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I’ve had three c-sections and I now want to have a tummy tuck. Will scar tissue...

Q:

I’ve had three c-sections and I now want to have a tummy tuck. Will scar tissue present a problem for having this procedure?

A:

Surgeons often perform abdominoplasties on patients who have had multiple c-sections. The resulting scar tissue as well as weakened muscles, loss of skin elasticity, and a stubborn abdominal panniculus resistant to diet must all be addressed.

The specific type of abdominoplasty performed (i.e., complete abdominoplasty, “mini’ abdominoplasty, and/or abdominoplasty combined with suction-assisted–lipectomy) may be influenced by pre-existing abdominal scarring and post c-section anatomic variations. The abdominal scar resulting from a c-section can vary from almost unperceivable and asymptomatic, to a thickened unsightly tender keloid. Rarely, the scar may involve not only the skin, but adhesions may be present involving the underlying fat, fascia, and muscle. If the abdominal wall is weak your plastic surgeon will discuss options available to improve this. A plastic surgeon’s judgment and expertise combined with a patient’s realistic expectations and compliance can result in an excellent outcome following abdominoplasty after multiple c-sections.