Cesarean Section Scar Keloid Recurrence and Combination Treatment | [Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon]

After the joy of holding a baby, another concern often follows: the long scar left on the abdomen. A C-section scar can irritate the skin when brushed by clothing, and seeing it in the mirror can lead to postpartum stress.

A C-section is a surgery that involves a long incision, either horizontal or vertical, on the abdomen, leaving a linear scar. Initially, it appears as a red mark, which may fade to white during recovery or, depending on individual constitution, may thicken and rise. It can also be accompanied by itching or pain.

While some scars naturally lighten over time, in some individuals, they can develop into keloids, often increasing in size. Therefore, the period of 3 to 6 months after childbirth is a time to observe how the scar progresses.

C-section scar treatment begins by first identifying the current stage of the scar, as the appropriate method differs depending on its color and shape.

In the period immediately after the wound has healed, silicone patches are often used for management. While they protect the scar from widening and maintain moisture, they are not a complete barrier against scarring and are best considered as supplementary care.

If the scar is still red in its early stage, it is advisable to start vascular laser treatment promptly. Beginning laser treatment during this period may help reduce the scar from thickening or hardening into a white, firm texture. Treatment can usually begin 1 to 2 weeks after suture removal, but the exact timing is determined by a specialist based on the recovery status.

Among C-section scars, keloid scars are the most challenging type to treat. They spread thickly beyond the incision area to the surrounding skin, with constitutional factors playing a significant role. Itching and pain are often severe, and treatment is not simple because recurrence is frequent if only the scar is removed.

For these reasons, combination treatment using Triamcinolone Scar Injection and scar laser is commonly employed recently. The injection reduces excessively proliferated collagen to lower the scar's height, while the laser precisely stimulates the scar tissue to create an environment that suppresses recurrence. The likelihood of recurrence is lower when laser treatment is combined with injections compared to using injections alone.

C-section scars that develop into keloids can cause discomfort in daily life if they grow in size and are accompanied by itching and pain. Given the high risk of recurrence, combination treatment using both laser and injections may help maintain the effect for a longer period. Check your current scar condition and plan your treatment now.

Author · Chief Director Lee Sang-joo / Dermatologist Chief Director of Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon, he has long specialized in treating everything from pigment and wrinkles to scars. He serves as the President of the Korean Dermatological Association in 2026 and an adjunct professor at the Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine. Detailed career information can be found in his medical staff profile. · Last reviewed on September 6, 2026

This article is intended to provide general medical information, and treatment methods and results may vary depending on the type of scar and individual constitution. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, please consult with a dermatologist.