After having children, many mothers look for ways to reclaim their bodies. From exercise regimes to strict diets, women are often ready to exhaust all their options post-partum. Although a healthy lifestyle is critical to health and well-being, these approaches won’t address all concerns.
This is why many mothers opt for a post-pregnancy tummy tuck.
When Diet and Exercise Aren’t Enough
Not every concern a new mother has is related to fat alone. In fact, many women struggle with stretch marks, loose skin, problematic c-section scars and abdominal separation, known as diastasis recti. While stretch marks and scars aren’t always visible, loose skin and abdominal separation can change the contour of the body and may be visible through clothing.
Of these issues women tend to encounter after pregnancy, diastasis recti is often the most difficult to cope with. Unlike loose skin, the right undergarments are unable to hide it. It also causes functional issues in terms of abdominal strength and posture.
Whether dealing with one or a combination of issues, the fact is that at-home fixes won’t correct these problems. This can be upsetting to women whose entire self-image has been reshaped by motherhood as it is, and many long for their body to more closely resemble what they looked like pre-baby.
How a Tummy Tuck Can Help
Diet and exercise are critical, but they can’t fix loose skin or abdominal separation.
The big reason for getting a tummy tuck after a baby is that this surgery can address problems that do not respond to diet and exercise. A standard tummy tuck brings the abdominal muscles back together, removes excess skin, and in some cases, can assist in minimizing stretch marks.
Depending on the approach, the plastic surgeon might also be able to alter a c-section scar that is larger or more jagged than desired. Clients have the option to add other procedures to their tummy tuck, such as a breast lift and augmentation, by planning a full mommy makeover.
What to Expect from a Post-Baby Tummy Tuck
The exact method used will depend on the type of tummy tuck you select and the approach your plastic surgeon feels is best. During abdominoplasty surgery, excess fat is removed from the abdomen, abdominal muscles are repaired and excess skin is removed.
If you have had a c-section, your plastic surgeon can make their incision in the same location, so you only have one scar. If needed, they can remove excess scar tissue at this time.
The end result is a stomach that is tight and flat. In nearly all cases, the resulting scar is placed low enough not to be seen in underwear or bathing suits.
How Soon Can a Mom Get a Tuck after Birth
Once you are confident that your body contour cannot be improved by diet and exercise alone, you can schedule your tummy tuck consultation. Keep in mind that your surgeon likely won’t schedule the surgery until you are at least six months post-partum or six months post-breastfeeding, whichever comes first. This is due to the changes your body could still experience, and the fact that new moms do a lot of lifting. At this point, you can start prepping for the tummy tuck that you want!
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in hand and microsurgery. Dr. Campanile knows that making a lasting change to your appearance is a big decision. His calm, professional approach and deep caring for his patients set a tone that will help you feel confident and relaxed while reviewing your options and learning all about the procedures that can benefit you. Request a consultation today to meet with Dr. Campanile in person.
