Pregnancy Should You Have a Tummy Tuck – There’s no doubt that having a baby can be a wonderful experience. But not every woman thinks the effects on their body are quite so beautiful.
While not every woman experiences a post-pregnancy “pooch,” many do. This can mean a bit of extra skin and a few stretch marks. But things aren’t always this subtle. That baby belly can get in the way of clothing, self-esteem, and even daily activities.
If you’re less than pleased with your post-pregnancy body, you may be seeking tummy tuck options. Also called abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck can give you a sleeker look.
Many women ask, “How soon after a baby can I have my tummy tuck?” Here’s how to find out if you’re ready.
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What Can a Tummy Tuck Do for Your Body?
It’s well-known that having a baby can change the body. But what about abdominoplasty? Can this popular surgery give you back your pre-pregnancy look?
While abdominoplasty gives you a sleeker shape, no surgery can turn back the hands of time. A tummy tuck can:
- Flatten the lower belly area
- Remove some skin for a tighter look
- Remove some stretch marks
However, a tummy tuck:
- Might not eliminate all of your stretch marks
- Might not make your body look exactly the way it did before pregnancy
Is It Time for Abdominoplasty? Ask Yourself These Questions
Technically, a tummy tuck can be performed as soon as you’ve recovered from childbirth. On the other hand, you may be wondering, “Is it time?”
Ask yourself the following questions to help decide whether to schedule your abdominoplasty.
“Am I Done Having Children?”
Another pregnancy will stretch the skin and muscles out all over again. So if you’re planning on a bigger family, you may want to wait until after your last child before having a tummy tuck.
Again, you can have abdominoplasty when ready and in good health. So ultimately, the decision is up to you and your doctor.
“Am I Done Losing Weight?”
If you dislike your post-baby belly because you still have weight to lose, you may not be ready for a tummy tuck. Most surgeons recommend that you get to, or near, your goal weight before plastic surgery.
“How Does My Post-Pregnancy Belly Make Me Feel?”
This one may seem obvious, but it’s important. How we feel about our bodies can affect our daily lives. If your self-esteem has taken a hit due to your post-pregnancy tummy, you may want to consider abdominoplasty sooner rather than later.
“Have I Given Things Enough Time?”
Your belly after giving birth may not be the one you have a year from now. While it can seem hard to wait, it’s wise to see how things look six to twelve months after having your baby. Your tummy could get flatter during that time. Your skin may also tighten up slightly.
“Can I Afford a Tummy Tuck?”
You may be surprised to hear that this is one thing that shouldn’t make you hesitate. Many plastic surgeons offer payment plans for abdominoplasty.
We would never advocate overspending, especially if you have a budget. But if the expense is the issue, sit down and talk with your plastic surgeon. There may be a way for you to more comfortably absorb the expense over time.
“Are My Goals Realistic?”
“I want to look firmer and tighter” may be a positive body goal. “I want to look exactly like I did before pregnancy” might not be. Ask your plastic surgeon what you can expect from your tummy tuck.
Also, ask to see before-and-after photos so you can get an idea of what your result might look like.
“What Are My Options?”
Abdominoplasty is the gold standard for a post-pregnancy belly. (And there’s no doubt it can produce dramatic results.) On the other hand, you may want to seek other options. Liposuction is one example. And some patients opt for both abdominoplasty and liposuction.
This is another question you will want to ask your plastic surgeon. They can help guide you to the ideal plan for your goals.
Once You’ve Had Your Tummy Tuck
After you’ve decided to have an abdominoplasty, you will want to maintain your results. Keep the following in mind:
- Tummy tuck surgery is permanent. But you can stretch the area again if you make less-than-ideal lifestyle choices. After your tummy tuck, try to maintain a well-balanced diet and workout routine.
- Wait about three months to see your final result. Small changes can occur throughout the healing process. So if you still feel swollen or not quite “flat” immediately after abdominoplasty, don’t worry. Give it a little time.
- Try to maintain a stable weight. A significant weight gain or loss after abdominoplasty can result in an unbalanced look. (And, of course, weight stability is healthier for you.)
- If you have questions, ask. Don’t be afraid to call your plastic surgeon’s office with concerns.
Your decision to have abdominoplasty can be life-changing. With the right plastic surgeon and the right timing, you can achieve the positive results you’ve been looking for.
