Abdominal scars
Abdominal scars may follow surgery, caesarean birth, injury, burns, infection or piercing. They may be flat, raised, depressed, differently coloured or tethered to deeper tissue, which can also alter the surrounding contour.
What you may notice
- A horizontal, vertical or small keyhole scar
- Raised, firm or itchy tissue
- A widened or indented line
- Dark, red or pale colour difference
- Tethering or a contour step
Why it can happen
Outcome depends on injury depth, incision direction, tension, infection, healing problems, genetics and skin type. Keloids extend beyond the original wound. A bulge beside a surgical scar may be a hernia, not a cosmetic scar.
What may help
Sun protection and silicone may support early scar care. Raised scars, colour, texture and tethering need different treatments, including injections, laser, microneedling or revision. Surgical revision creates a new wound and recurrence is possible.
When to consult
Consult a clinician for increasing pain, redness, drainage, ulceration, rapid growth or a bulge that worsens with coughing. Stable scars can be assessed after maturation.
Evidence and sources
- National Health Service. Scars [Internet]. London: National Health Service; 2023 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scars/ (new tab)
- DermNet. Keloid and hypertrophic scar [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet; 2022 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/keloid-and-hypertrophic-scar (new tab)
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing [Internet]. Arlington Heights (IL): American Society of Plastic Surgeons; [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/skin-rejuvenation-and-resurfacing (new tab)