Can a C section scar be used for the TT operation?
In almost all cases the C-section scar can be used as the central scar of a tummy tuck. The scar will not to be extended on either side, the length being dependent on the amount of side folding of the abdomen.
The tummy tuck scar is always preferable to be located low in the abdomen. (George Lefkovits, MD, New York Plastic Surgeon)
Keep tummy tuck scars low
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. (Richard Baxter, MD, Seattle Plastic Surgeon)
C-section scar and tummy tucks.
In the vast majority of cases the c-section scar is removed with the tummy tuck. Very rarely is the existing scar lower than the planned incision for the contouring.
Sometimes the tummy tuck scar seems to rise as there is more tension pulling from above. This needs to be evaluated preoperatively to see how much laxity is in the pubic area. Seeking a well-qualified plastic surgeon and discussing your concerns is the best approach. You can also get a quote so you can plan your procedure when the time is better financially. (Brian J. Lee, MD, Fort Wayne Plastic Surgeon)
Location of the tummy tuck scar post c section
I routinely place tummy tuck incision at the c-section scar or even lower than that. At your consultation, your plastic surgeon will be able to tell you where the tummy tuck scar would be placed. As plastic surgeons, we try to make the scar as invisible or hidden as possible. (Sugene Kim, MD, Houston Plastic Surgeon)
C-Section Scar as Part of a Tummy Tuck Procedure
More likely than not, your c-section scar can be incorporated into the central portion of a tummy tuck procedure. Be aware, however, that the final tummy tuck scar position will not end up quite as low as the c-section scar is now. Removing tissue above the c-section will pull the incisional closure higher. (Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD, Indianapolis Plastic Surgeon)
Using a C section scar for an abdominoplasty
More than likely your existing C section scar can be used as the central portion of your abdominoplasty scar. This is frequently done and requested. A complete exam would be need to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure in general. (Jeffrey Zwiren, MD, Atlanta Plastic Surgeon)
A tummy tuck scar can be placed where your c-section scar is.
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. (Eric Swanson, MD, Kansas City Plastic Surgeon)
Tummy tuck scar location post c section
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. 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. (Gregory Lynam, MD, Richmond Plastic Surgeon)
Most plastic surgeons will use the c-section scar, and extend it. Keeping the scar low, on the other hand, is harder than using the c-section scar. I like to suture the superficial fascia to the deep fascia to try to keep it down there, as tension from pulling the tissue low, tends to stretch the scar high. The following is an example of using a patient’s c-section scar and keeping the incision low. (Pablo Prichard, MD, Phoenix Plastic Surgeon)
When a patient has a C Section scar, that is generally where the incision is made for a tummy tuck. (Robert E. Zaworski, MD, Atlanta Plastic Surgeon)
Although this is only a general response based on incomplete info (no photo), there is usually no reason not to use the C-section scar as a starting point unless it is too high. (Jourdan Gottlieb, MD, Seattle Plastic Surgeon)