C-SECTION SCAR REVISION

SEATTLE

That scar was supposed to fade quietly into the background of your story, but for some women, it doesn't. A step-off, a widened scar, or skin above it that just doesn't sit flat — noticing it every time you get dressed is a real thing, and it's not something you have to just live with.

WHAT IS A C-SECTION SCAR REVISION?

Many women who have a C-section end up with a scar on their lower abdomen that's barely visible once healed. Some women, though, remain unhappy with how it looks long after surgery — the scar can appear widened (sometimes from healing issues), thickened, or tethered to the tissue underneath. A lot of my patients describe a "step-off" appearance, where the skin above the scar looks fuller than the skin below it. That incongruity shows up not just in a bikini or underwear, but in tighter-fitting clothing like leggings too — and it can become a real source of irritation and insecurity that many women don't realize has a relatively easy fix.

A C-Section Scar Revision removes the older scar and evens out the skin edges to create a flat, smooth appearance on the lower abdomen. At the same time, I can also address loose abdominal skin, abdominal fat, or a rectus diastasis if those are part of the picture.

A CLOSER LOOK

During your consultation, I'll evaluate the quality and thickness of your scar, whether it's tethered or has adhesions underneath it, any abdominal step-offs, your fat distribution, and — most importantly — your skin laxity, since that's the biggest factor in whether a simple scar revision is the right fit or whether a Tummy Tuck would serve you better.

THE PROCEDURE

A C-Section Scar Revision is performed in our AAAASF-accredited Ambulatory Surgery Center in the Nordstrom Medical Tower in downtown Seattle, under local anesthetic, oral sedation, or IV sedation, depending on your comfort level and how extensive the procedure is. It typically takes about an hour. The old scar is removed and replaced with a thin, delicate incision line, and all sutures are hidden under the skin to dissolve on their own. Liposuction can be performed at the same time if needed.

For some patients, a C-Section Scar Revision is combined with a mini or full Tummy Tuck to address loose abdominal skin. During your consultation, I'll build an individualized plan around your specific areas of concern and your goals.

SCAR REVISION VS. MINI TUMMY TUCK: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

A C-Section Scar Revision can be a simple, standalone procedure, or for some women, it may actually mean a mini Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty). The deciding factor is almost always your skin: if your main concern is the scar itself — its thickness, tethering, or a step-off — a scar revision alone is often enough. If there's meaningful loose skin on the lower abdomen beyond the scar itself, a mini or full Tummy Tuck addresses both the scar and the skin laxity in one procedure. We'll work through which situation you're in together at your consultation.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?

The ideal candidate for a C-Section Scar Revision is in good overall health, at a stable weight, and at least a year out from their C-section. Ideally, this is done once you're finished having children, though that isn't always the case.

Beyond the basics, your candidacy comes down to a few specifics I evaluate in person during your consultation:

The quality and thickness of your scar, and whether it's tethered or has adhesions underneath it.

Any abdominal step-off, where the skin above the scar sits fuller than the skin below.
Your fat distribution, and whether liposuction should be added.
Your overall skin laxity — this is the biggest factor in whether a simple scar revision is right for you, or whether a Tummy Tuck would give you a better result.

Patients with a history of blood clots, or multiple risk factors for them, may need to take a blood thinner after surgery. We'll review your history carefully beforehand.

Dr. Megan far exceeded my expectations. She is extremely caring, talented, educated, and attentive. I am so thankful for her, she truly changed my life in the best way possible! I feel great knowing I 100% chose the right surgeon for my procedure.

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C-SECTION RECOVERY

Unlike your original C-section, a scar revision only involves the most superficial layers of abdominal tissue — no muscle is cut, which is a huge part of why C-section recovery is so much harder than this one. A gauze bandage goes over the incision initially, and you can start showering 48 hours after surgery. Some patients prefer an abdominal binder or compression garment afterward, mainly for comfort and support but compression is important for the weeks after surgery if liposuction was performed.

Dedicated scar care can begin 3 weeks after surgery. Light exercise can start at 3 weeks, and most patients feel back to normal by 6 weeks. Your scar won't reach its final, remodeled appearance until 12 months out — that's standard healing time, not a sign anything's wrong.

C-SECTION SCAR REVISION

FAQ

Will My Old C-Section Scar Be Removed?

Yes, the old c-section scar will be removed during this Seattle plastic surgery procedure. It will be replaced with a more even, thinner scar.

How Much Does A C-Section Scar Revision Cost?

Every patient's aesthetic concerns regarding their c-section will be slightly different. Surgical planning and cost will be individualized based on patient anatomy and plastic surgery goals.

When Can I Start Exercising After My C-Section Scar Revision?

Generally, 4 weeks is required before returning to vigorous exercise. Lighter exercises can be performed sooner with the approval of your plastic surgeon.

Do You Cut Through My Muscle During The Procedure?

There is no muscle cutting during this plastic surgery procedure. If combined with a tummy tuck and a diastasis repair is planned simultaneously, sutures will be placed within the muscle fascia.