Is a tummy tuck the right procedure for you? Your post-pregnancy body isn't the same—especially in the abdominal area. You've tried changes in your diet and you exercise regularly. But you haven't seen the stomach-specific results you expected. Take a look at what you need to know about body contouring and the tuck procedure.
What Is A Tummy Tuck Procedure?
Also known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck shapes and tightens the belly area. A surgeon removes excess fat and skin from the abdominal area to create a slimmer look. This procedure can also tighten the connective tissue under the skin, adding to a trimmer shape.
Why Would Someone Want This Procedure After Pregnancy?
A postpartum belly is a normal part of pregnancy for many women. But this doesn't mean you have to accept it as a new, and permanent, part of your body. Between the hormonal changes of pregnancy (and the postpartum period) and nine months of a growing belly, it's not always easy to flatten the abdominal area immediately after giving birth.
While some women bounce back into pre-pregnancy shape right away (or with increased physical activity), others don't. If you've already changed the way you eat and started a new exercise routine, but haven't seen results, an abdominoplasty may help. Not only can this procedure flatten your abdomen, but it can also help to eliminate loose or sagging stretched belly skin.
How Soon After Pregnancy Can You Schedule This Surgery?
Even though a tuck can effectively change the shape of your abdominal area, it isn't an immediate answer. An abdominoplasty is an option to choose after you've already tried weight loss through more conservative methods. But if dietary and exercise-focused strategies still leave you with a bulging belly, it's time to talk to the doctor about the alternatives.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you should wait at least six months after childbirth to have a plastic surgery procedure. Along with a six-month wait time, you may also need to meet other criteria before the doctor agrees to a tummy tuck. These include your overall health status, your current weight, and whether you will have another child. If you plan to get pregnant soon or in the near future, you will want to wait for an abdominoplasty.
How Long Is Abdominoplasty Recovery?
This type of surgical procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis. This means you won't need to stay overnight in the hospital. Even though you will get to go home within hours of your surgery, you can't resume normal daily activities right away.
Talk to your surgeon about downtime and activity restrictions before your procedure date. The doctor's instructions can help you to prepare for after-care-related issues. You will need to take it easy, avoid lifting, and change your exercise/physical activity routine for several weeks (or possibly longer) after the procedure.
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