By | May 23, 2025
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How To Avoid Keloid After C-section

Avoiding a keloid after a C-section can be challenging if you’re genetically predisposed, but there are effective strategies to reduce your risk and manage the scar proactively. Keloids are thick, raised scars that grow beyond the original wound boundary, often due to an overactive healing response.

🔹 Risk Factors for Keloids

  • Genetics: More common in people with darker skin tones (African, Asian, Hispanic descent)
  • Previous keloids: If you’ve had them before, you’re more likely to get another
  • Younger age: People under 30 are at higher risk

✅ How to Minimize Keloid Risk After a C-Section

1. Choose the Right Surgeon and Closure Technique

  • Let your doctor know you have a history of keloids (if you do).
  • Ask about intracuticular sutures (under the skin stitches), which may reduce scarring.
  • Some surgeons use pressure dressings or silicone gel sheets immediately after healing begins.

2. Keep the Wound Clean and Moist

  • Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.
  • Moisturize with petroleum jelly or silicone gel once the incision is closed to keep the skin pliable.

3. Apply Silicone Sheets or Gels

  • These are clinically proven to reduce keloid formation.
  • Begin using them once the wound has closed (usually 2–3 weeks post-op).
  • Use daily for several months.

4. Avoid Tension on the Scar

  • Excessive stretching of the skin can worsen scarring.
  • Avoid heavy lifting or activities that pull on the incision.

5. Protect from the Sun

  • UV exposure can darken and worsen scars.
  • Use high-SPF sunscreen or keep the area covered, especially in the first year.

6. Massage the Scar

  • Once the incision is healed, gently massage the area daily with a soft circular motion.
  • This improves blood flow and may break down excess scar tissue.

7. Medical Treatments if Needed

If a keloid starts forming:

  • Steroid injections: Can flatten and soften keloids.
  • Cryotherapy or laser therapy: Often used by dermatologists for stubborn keloids.
  • Pressure therapy or radiation (rare): Sometimes used in high-risk cases post-surgery.

🚨 When to Talk to Your Doctor

  • If the scar becomes itchy, raised, red, or painful after initial healing.
  • If you’ve had keloids before, mention it before your C-section so preventative measures can be taken.