Can I Have a Baby after Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to reverse the effects of pregnancy on the stomach. Most tummy tucks involve removing hanging abdominal skin, tightening the remaining skin, eliminating pockets of stubborn fat and repairing separated or damaged muscles.
One of the most commonly asked questions about tummy tuck is whether a woman can go on to have a baby afterward. Below, Dr. Ronald DeMars, a Portland tummy tuck surgeon, reveals the answer.
It’s Possible, but Not Recommended
It is anatomically possible to have a baby after tummy tuck. The surgery itself does not compromise a woman’s ability to become pregnant or safely carry and deliver a healthy baby. The unborn child will still have plenty of room to grow and thrive in the womb.
Some women are surprised to learn that they are expecting again after tummy tuck, and others simply change their minds and want to expand their families. No matter the circumstances, these women can go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies.
With that said, Dr. DeMars does not recommend having a baby after tummy tuck, because the pregnancy can sabotage the aesthetic results of surgery. Exactly how is unpredictable, because everyone’s body is different. Some women find that they still love their tummy tuck results after delivering and recovering from childbirth. But very often, pregnancy causes irreversible stretching of the skin, weight gain that is hard to work off with diet and exercise and a separation of the abdominal muscles. The severity of these problems depends on genetics, body shape, number of previous pregnancies, amount of weight gained during the pregnancy and other factors. These concerns can only be remedied with a tummy tuck; therefore, revision surgery is needed to reclaim a flat, toned stomach.
If you had tummy tuck surgery in the past and find yourself expecting a baby, you should inform your OB-GYN of your past surgery. And if you are exploring your tummy tuck options but seriously contemplating a future pregnancy, be sure to inform your plastic surgeon. This information helps your medical team make decisions with your best interests in mind.
How Long Should I Wait after Pregnancy to Get a Tummy Tuck?
Every plastic surgeon has their own recommendations regarding timing a tummy tuck. Generally, you should wait at least six months to a year after delivering to pursue tummy tuck. This allows your body time to return to its “baseline” and offers the best chances of successful, long-term results.
Discuss Tummy Tuck with Dr. DeMars
Do you feel you have completed your family and are interested in abdominoplasty to transform your post-baby belly? Dr. DeMars would be happy to discuss the procedure in detail during a consultation. Please call (503) 253-3458 or email our Portland plastic surgery practice today to make an appointment with Dr. DeMars.
