A Realistic Look at C-Section Scar Healing Stages & Treatment Options

A C-section can be a life-saving procedure for both mother and baby, but it comes with its own set of recovery considerations, particularly when it comes to the incision and resulting scar. Understanding the types of incisions, closure methods, scar variations, and healing timelines can help you take the best steps toward a smoother recovery and minimise long-term scarring. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about C-section scar recovery and treatment options.

What Are the Types of C-Section Incisions and Scars?

A C-section typically involves two incisions: an abdominal incision through which your baby is delivered, and a uterine incision to access the womb. The abdominal incision carefully cuts through seven layers: skin, subcutaneous fat, fascia, rectus muscles (separated, not cut), peritoneum, the uterine wall, and the amniotic sac, before the baby can be safely delivered. Understanding the types of incisions, closure methods, and how each layer is repaired can help you choose the most suitable treatment for your C-section scar.

Types of C-Section Incisions

• Abdominal Horizontal Incisions

• What the Scar Looks Like: Usually low on the abdomen, just above the pubic line. Horizontal and thin in most cases.

• Purpose of the Incision: Provides access to the uterus while minimising visibility and promoting easier healing.

• Abdominal Vertical Incisions

• What the Scar Looks Like: Vertical along the middle of the abdomen. Less common today.

• Purpose of the Incision: Historically used for emergencies or certain uterine positions. Offers rapid access to the baby.

Types of C-Section Closures

• Dissolvable Stitches: Gradually dissolve on their own and do not require removal. Commonly used internally.

• Surgical Staples: Allow quick closure but need removal after 5–10 days.

• Surgical Needle and Thread (Non-Dissolvable Stitches): Require removal by a doctor or midwife. Provide strong wound support.

• Surgical Glue: Creates a protective barrier over the incision and typically falls off naturally within 1–2 weeks.

Types of C-Section Scars:

• Keloid C-Section Scar: Raised, thick, and extends beyond the original incision. Often darker in colour.

• Hypertrophic C-Section Scar: Raised and red, but remains within the incision line. It can improve with treatment over time.

• C-Section Scar Overhang: Also called the C-Section shelf or “pooch,” it is a fold of skin over the scar.

What Are the C-Section Scar Healing Stages And How Long Do They Last?

C-section scars heal in stages, each with its own visible changes and timeframe.

1. Inflammatory Phase (Days 1-7)

• What You See: Redness, swelling, and tenderness.

• What’s Happening: Your body is sending immune cells to the site to prevent infection and start tissue repair.

2. Proliferative Phase (Weeks 1-6)

• What You See: Scab formation, new tissue growth, and reduced redness.

• What’s Happening: Collagen is being laid down to strengthen the wound and promote closure.

3. Remodelling/Maturation Phase (6 weeks to 12-18 months)

• What You See: Scar flattens and fades gradually. May change colour from red to lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

• What’s Happening: Collagen reorganises and strengthens, improving the overall appearance of the scar.

How Should You Care For A C-Section Incision In The First 6-8 Weeks?

1. Wash gently in the shower. Use mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing and pat dry afterwards.

2. Use safe pain relief while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor about approved medications.

3. Move carefully and avoid strain. Start with short walks as soon as you feel able, but avoid lifting heavy objects (nothing heavier than your baby) for the first 6–8 weeks. Support your core when sitting or standing.

4. Wear compression garments for comfort. SRC C-Section Recovery Shorts and SRC C-Section Recovery Leggings offer gentle compression and support, helping reduce swelling and providing stability around the incision without putting too much pressure directly on it.

5. Apply heat or cold packs after the wound has closed. Once your incision has healed sufficiently (your doctor will confirm), you can use SRC Relief Femme-Eze Preneium Ice & Heat Packs to ease tension and discomfort. Be sure to put a cloth or towel between your skin and the pack to avoid burns or irritation.

What to Expect with Your Stitches and Dressings?

• Dissolvable stitches: Usually dissolve on their own within a few weeks. Keep the area dry and avoid scratching.

• Staples or non-dissolvable stitches: Will be removed by your healthcare provider; protect the area and follow dressing instructions.

• Surgical glue: Forms a protective barrier. Avoid picking or scrubbing; it typically falls off naturally.

How to Minimise C-Section Scarring in the Months After Recovery

C-section scar recovery doesn’t end when the incision closes. Ongoing care can improve appearance and reduce complications. Here are at-home and advanced treatments you can try for C-Section scar recovery.

At-Home Measures Most People Can Try

1. Try SRC Scar Repair Care

SRC silicone scar sheets help rehydrate the scar and normalise collagen production, which can flatten and soften raised or pigmented scars. The silicone gel sheets also deliver gentle, consistent compression, decreasing tension on the skin to minimise scar widening or hypertrophy.

2. Scar massage

Scar massage, once the wound is fully closed, may help by mechanically stimulating collagen remodelling and improving scar pliability. Start only once your doctor confirms the wound is fully closed. Use gentle circular motions, gradually increasing pressure. Stop if sore or inflamed.

3. Sun protection

Protecting healing scars from sun exposure is critical because UV radiation can darken scars, worsen discolouration, and make them more visible long-term. Use daily SPF on exposed areas to prevent discolouration and pigmentation changes.

4. General healing 

Good overall health supports optimal scar healing. A protein-rich diet provides the amino acids needed for collagen synthesis, while staying hydrated ensures proper cellular function and tissue repair. Avoiding smoking is also important, since nicotine impairs blood flow and collagen formation.

Advanced Treatments Your Doctor Might Recommend

Your doctor may recommend more advanced, targeted therapies when scars remain raised, tight, or painful despite basic care. These medical treatments aim to improve scar appearance, restore mobility, and reduce symptoms by addressing the underlying tissue changes more effectively than at-home options alone.

1. Corticosteroid injections

Intralesional corticosteroid injections are common C-section scar treatment options for hypertrophic and keloid scars. Corticosteroid is found to decrease scar volume significantly and alleviate pain surrounding the scar. [1] 

2. Laser therapy or microneedling

Laser therapy and microneedling are minimally invasive options to improve the texture and colour of scars.

3. Scar revision surgery

Surgical scar revision may be considered when scars restrict movement, are painful, and other therapies (e.g., injections, laser therapy) have been unsuccessful. It can help reshape or reposition the scar, improve function, or reduce discomfort around the scar.

What to Look Out For After a C-Section?

Recovery varies for each woman, but knowing what’s normal can prevent complications. See C-Section Recovery: A Week-by-Week Guide for more details.

What’s Usually Normal

These signs typically indicate that your caesarean scar is healing properly.

• Tenderness and slight swelling for the first few days

• Mild redness along the incision edge that fades over time

• Uterine cramping as the uterus returns to pre-pregnancy size

When to Contact Your Doctor

If you notice any or a combination of these signs, contact your healthcare provider immediately. 

• Fever or chills

• Increasing redness, heat, or swelling around the incision

• Discharge of pus or foul-smelling fluid

• Excessive bleeding

• Leg swelling or pain

• Abnormal vaginal discharge

• Worsening pain or general unwellness

How Do You Know if Your C-Section Incision Is Healing Properly?

Visible signs of proper healing include:

• Scar edges that are closed and clean.

• Reduced redness and swelling over time.

• Absence of unusual discharge, odour, or intense pain.

• Gradual flattening and softening of the scar tissue.

Every C-section scar heals at its own pace. While timelines vary, monitoring your incision and understanding the C-Section scar healing stages ensures you can act promptly if issues arise. Early and consistent care, along with awareness of your scar’s appearance, can make a significant difference in long-term recovery and scar appearance.

FAQs

1. Do C-section scars go away?

C-section scars don’t disappear completely, but most fade significantly over time with proper care.

2. How long does it take for scar tissue to heal after a C-section?

The scar continues to remodel and strengthen for 12–18 months after surgery.

3. How long should I keep my C-section incision covered?

Initially, keep the incision protected with a sterile dressing until your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

4. What to put on a C-section scar to heal?

Silicone sheets or gels, gentle massage, and SPF protection can help improve healing and appearance.

5. What not to do for C-section recovery?

Avoid heavy lifting, smoking, scrubbing the incision, or applying unapproved topical treatments.

6. What heals a cesarean wound faster?

Proper hygiene, balanced nutrition, hydration, gentle movement, compression garments and using recommended scar treatments can speed healing.

7. Can I exercise while my C-section scar heals?

Light movement is recommended early on but avoid strenuous exercise until cleared by your doctor.