How do I get rid of a C-Section Shelf?

For many women, the presence of a “C-section shelf” can be a significant concern post-childbirth. This bulge above the C-section scar can be stubborn and resistant to diet and exercise. The accumulation of scar tissue and the dispersion of extra skin and fat around the surgical site are common causes of the C-section shelf. This may lead to an uneven contour that many people find unattractive. Board-certified Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Solomon Azouz has expertise in performing procedures to remove the c-section shelf and improve abdominal contour.

What is a C-Section Shelf?

A C-section shelf, sometimes referred to as a C-section overhang or pooch, is a bulge or pooch that may form in the lower belly following a cesarean delivery. There are several contributing elements, such as

• Scar tissue: An abdominal incision is made during a C-section. Scar tissue may develop as the incision heals. Scar tissue can be thicker and less flexible than normal tissue, leading to a bulge.
• Loose skin: The skin of the abdomen expands during pregnancy. Certain women may have extra skin that doesn’t fully retract after giving birth, particularly if they have had multiples or have significantly gained weight.
• Diastasis recti: The large muscles that run down the front of the abdomen are called the rectus muscles, and when they separate, it is called diastasis recti. Pregnancy can cause diastasis recti, and a C-section can make it worse.

C-section shelving may make you uncomfortable if you have back pain or find it difficult to do certain things.

Exercises for a C-Section Shelf

Diet and exercise cannot eliminate the c-section shelf completely; however, some workouts focus on strengthening the core and reducing abdominal fat. After a c-section, it is important to consult your doctor before beginning any new exercises. Some gentle core exercises include deep diaphragmatic breathing and pelvic floor exercises. To tighten the loose muscles, concentrate on core strengthening exercises like planks, dead bugs, and modified crunches. Non-surgical options generally offer more subtle improvements with a c-section shelf, as it cannot remove the excess loose skin or repair the separated abdominal muscles. After a tummy tuck or c-section shelf removal surgery, Dr. Azouz may recommend specific core strengthening exercises to help with muscle recovery.

C-Section Shelf Removal

During your consultation, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz will make recommendations for a customized treatment plan intended to smooth and flatten the lower abdomen after a cesarean section. Several procedures can be performed to remove a C-section shelf, including:

1. Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): This involves tightening the abdominal muscles, correcting the diastasis recti, and cutting away extra skin and fat, which can eliminate the shelf after a cesarean section.
2. Mini-Tummy Tuck: This less invasive procedure targets the region beneath the belly button. It is the best option for people who need a more focused correction and have a less noticeable shelf.
3. Liposuction: Although liposuction is mainly used to remove extra fat, it can also be used in conjunction with a full or mini tummy tuck to further refine the abdomen’s contours and lessen the prominence of the C-section shelf.

How much does a C-section shelf removal cost?

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz tailors each surgery to the patient’s goals. The cost of C-section shelf removal can vary tremendously depending on the specific procedures recommended to each patient. During your consultation, Dr. Azouz will provide a personalized treatment plan, including a breakdown of costs related to surgical fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and any necessary equipment. In some cases, the surgery can be more cost-effective if procedures are combined into one. Dr. Azouz also offers financing options.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Azouz

Consider the treatment options available with Dr. Solomon Azouz in Dallas, Texas, if a C-section shelf is troubling you. With advanced techniques and a patient-centered approach, Dr. Azouz can help you achieve the aesthetic results you desire. Call our office today at (972) 702-8888 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards reclaiming your confidence.