Pregnancy stretches the skin and weakens the abdominal muscles. Unfortunately, sometimes dieting and exercise are not enough to restore the stomach back to its original condition. Now, due to advances in plastic surgery, many moms are finding it’s a lot easier to get a tummy tuck to eliminate the extra fat and tighten up abdominal muscles to achieve a flatter stomach. It’s a simple solution. They can finally get the body they want after pregnancy without having to worry about stubborn flab and excess skin.
So How Does the Procedure Work?
What does the surgery consist of? Also known as abdominoplasty, a traditional tummy tuck consists of a few incisions. First, the cosmetic surgeon will make an incision directly above the pubic area extending from one hip to the other. Another small incision is made around the belly button. Because the surgeon will be moving skin around, the navel might have to be repositioned at the end of the surgery. After making the incisions, the surgeon then removes excess fat and loose skin, and tightens the abdominal muscles.
Patients can also opt for a “mini” tuck, which involves a smaller incision and less skin removal.
Recovery Process
Recovery time usually depends on the patient. However, most patients find they are able to perform normal daily activities anywhere from one to three weeks following the surgery.
Initially, patients may notice bruising, swelling, and numbness in certain areas, but that will fade in a few weeks. Fluid may accumulate under the skin, but will be drained by the surgeon during check-ups.
Patients should refrain from performing any strenuous physical activity for the first few weeks after the surgery. The incisions need time to heal in order to ensure they will not reopen. After a few weeks, Dr. Gaines will implement an exercise program to help speed up the healing process.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Generally, you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you have a post-pregnancy pooch or sagging skin.
However, Dr. Greg Gaines of Gaines Plastic Surgery advises new moms to wait at least six months before undergoing surgery for a tummy tuck. The body must fully heal from pregnancy before surgeons can perform a tummy tuck. Patients who wish to have children in the future should wait to have a tummy tuck.
Dr. Gaines and his team of cosmetic surgery experts in Gainesville, Florida understand that opting for a tummy tuck after pregnancy is a big step. It’s our mission to make sure you get the body you want in the safest, but most reliable way. Contact our office today for more information on how you can get rid of unwanted belly fat after a pregnancy.