The C-section scar may worry some women, but fear not. Although it seems very apparent at first, it will fade over time.
Current suturing techniques and good post-surgery care can mean that it will be nearly invisible once healing is complete. Here is a small instruction manual to make this scar as invisible as possible.
In the early days
Immediately after the caesarean section, dressings will be applied to the scar to close it. They will fall off on their own within ten days of surgery, by which time the scar should have closed. Everything will be covered with a large bandage to prevent infection for the first few days after which your scar will heal better in the open air.
After about 3-4 days, you can take a shower and wet the wound. However, you will have to wait about a month before taking a bath or swimming in the pool. The most important care is to clean the wound well with mild soap and water every day. "The skin must be kept clean and dry at all times to avoid infection or poor healing,"explains Dr. Jean-François Pépin of the Chronos medico-aesthetic clinic. To dry the scar, pat it gently with a clean towel and avoid rubbing. Prefer cotton underwear that does not store moisture.
Normal healing or not?
It is normal to feel itching and tightness around the scar in the days and even weeks following the C-section. Pubic hair regrowth can also be uncomfortable and itchy. You may also experience loss of feeling or numbness due to severed nerves. This loss of sensitivity, which can last up to a year, is normal.
If the scar becomes more tender and red, blood or pus drains from it, or you have a fever, it's probably a sign of an infection. See a doctor if you have these symptoms.
In the first weeks
After about 10 days, the scar should be completely closed. It is from this moment that it is recommended to massage it gently. Massage softens the skin and can prevent adhesions and reduce sensitivity. However, “there is little evidence that massage improves the aesthetic appearance of the scar,” adds Dr. Pépin.
The first year
“The C-section scar usually takes two years to fully heal. Healing will be approximately 80% complete after 1 year and the other 20% during the second year,” explains Dr. Seed. In the end, a successful C-section scar should be barely pink and very thin (about two millimeters), he adds. It is essential to protect the scar from UV rays when you expose yourself to the sun in a swimsuit. Remember that the rays pass through fabrics, so apply sunscreen.
For Non-Breastfeeding Moms
If you are not planning to breastfeed after giving birth, ask your doctor to prescribe a silicone-based gel to apply to the scar. "Most cosmetic surgeons use it postoperatively to promote good healing and it gives good results," advises Dr. Pépin.
How to correct an unsightly scar
A scar can be unsightly for different reasons. The circumstances of the operation (emergency caesarean section for example), an infection after the operation or the genetics of the person may be involved. Some people naturally heal less well than others. There are different aesthetic treatments to correct a scar, but wait at least a year before turning to these options.
A red or dark scar
A pulsed light treatment may be indicated to correct the color and reduce redness. A specific wavelength is used to fade the scar. A series of several sessions will be offered to you depending on the condition of your scar.
A puffy scar (keloid type)
Over time, you may observe that the scar seems to harden and thicken, eventually forming a bead. This is called a keloid scar. It is actually the body that produces excessive tissue scarring and produces excess fibroblasts resulting in swelling.
“A revision of the scar can be performed (surgical revision) by a plastic surgeon,” suggests Dr. Pépin. If you plan to have a planned C-section in your next pregnancy, the obstetrician may correct the scar from your first C-section.
Cortisone injection is the technique most traditionally used by dermatologists. This procedure may be covered by insurance if prescribed by a doctor. Cortisone, injected using a mini syringe, aims to flatten and thin the scar by neutralizing the fibroblasts.
Several techniques offered in aesthetic clinics may be suitable for improving the appearance of your scar. This is the case with microdermabrasion and some laser treatments. “In general, a minimum of 3 sessions is recommended to see results,” says Dr. Pépin.
If you are bothered by the appearance of your C-section scar, consult your doctor or a dermatologist to evaluate the possibilities together.
