Keloid C-section scar removal: what to know

A keloid is excess scar tissue that extends beyond the original caesarean incision. Before recommending removal, a clinician checks whether the raised area is a keloid, a hypertrophic scar, an inflamed stitch site or an infection. Excision cuts away the visible scar, but it does not change the skin's tendency to form extra scar tissue. The new incision therefore needs a prevention plan. Treatment may be led by a dermatologist, plastic surgeon or obstetric clinician depending on the scar and your healing history.

Possible approaches include steroid injections to flatten or soften the scar, silicone sheets or gel after the wound closes, pressure dressings, laser treatment or excision combined with another therapy. The correct timing depends on wound healing, symptoms, breastfeeding and any planned pregnancy. Keep the incision protected from friction and follow dressing instructions. Do not cut or inject the scar yourself. Postnatal physiotherapy can address abdominal comfort and mobility when appropriate, while scar treatment focuses on the skin lesion.

Seek review before planned removal if the scar is painful, rapidly enlarging, ulcerated or bleeding. After a procedure, contact the treating team for increasing redness, heat, swelling, discharge, wound opening, fever or pain that is getting worse. These symptoms may need prompt treatment for infection or another wound complication.

Ask which treatment is recommended before surgery, how the wound will be protected afterwards, when silicone or injections can start, and how recurrence will be monitored. Also ask whether treatment should wait until breastfeeding or future pregnancy plans are clearer.