After having a child, many moms become dissatisfied with their “post-baby” body. When they decide to do something about it, such as with a tummy tuck after their final pregnancy, they’ve already thoroughly researched the procedure online. And they arrive at their consultations prepared with questions. Why? Because moms are superwomen.
It’s natural to have a lot of questions about something like surgery. I often field many questions about the procedure itself, such as where I make the incision, how long the operation lasts, and whether a patient will spend the night at a hospital or go home the day of the procedure. If you’ve recently given birth, though, I often ask you to consider a few other things before committing to surgery.
Is it the right time for me?
Choosing the right time for your tummy tuck is paramount. Here are a few considerations to factor into your timing assessment:
- Are you at a stable weight: You may read or hear that it’s important to wait at least 6 months after your child is born before having a tummy tuck. That’s not bad advice, but I tell my patients that it’s more important to reach a comfortable weight that you’re able to consistently maintain. After having a baby, it usually takes several months for your weight to stabilize.
- Are you finished having children: I also recommend postponing a tummy tuck until you aren’t planning to have any more children. Undergoing tummy tuck surgery doesn’t prevent you from having another child, of course, but if you do become pregnant again, it will likely have an adverse effect on your results.
- Are you emotionally ready: You’ll know you’re emotionally ready for a tummy tuck when you feel confident in your decision and have realistic expectations. Take time to process the changes in your body post-pregnancy and ensure you’re not rushing into surgery. When you’re able to focus on self-care, have a strong support system in place, and feel mentally prepared for the recovery process, you’re likely in a good emotional space for the procedure.
Waiting until you are physically and emotionally ready for abdominoplasty ensures a smoother surgical experience and greater satisfaction with your results. Our related blog post offers additional tips for preparing for your tummy tuck surgery.
Is it the right time for my family and work?
You’ll have some physical limitations during the first few weeks of your recovery and will need help around the house, with child care, and other daily activities. Here are some issues to consider:
- Can your family help around the house: Especially in the first week after surgery, you will need to lean on your loved ones for help around the house after a tummy tuck. Make sure you have someone available to help you with household chores, making meals, running errands, and taking care of other responsibilities. The Aesthetic Society offers additional details about tummy tuck recovery that can help you plan for the type of help you’ll need.
- Do you have help with your kids: If you have infants or toddlers at home, you should also realize that you will not be able to lift your children for several weeks after the operation. If you have school-aged kids, know that you won’t be able to drive them to or from school for the first couple of weeks. Make sure you’ll have someone available to care for your kids while you’re recovering.
- Can you take the necessary time off work: You’ll need to take at least 2 weeks off from work, but you may need more than that if you have a physically active job. Make sure the timing is right to be away from work, so you can take the time off without worrying about work projects, staff coverage, or other concerns.
Some physical and emotional stress is normal during plastic surgery recovery, so I encourage my patients to be sure they have a good support system at home and at work.
Should I combine procedures?
It’s vital to consider your body as a whole when you’re considering tummy tuck surgery. For example, once your abdomen is flat and trim-looking, will you be unhappy with the shape of your hips, breasts, thighs, or other body area? Combining procedures with your tummy tuck offers comprehensive and complementary shaping that enhances your overall results.
- Should you get a mommy makeover: Combining a tummy tuck with liposuction and a breast lift (with or without implants) is a fairly common choice for women. While a tummy tuck addresses the midsection, a breast lift addresses the changes your breasts experience after pregnancy and breastfeeding. One of the benefits of combining surgical procedures in a single operation is that there is only one recovery period. You’ll generally save on the cost, as well, because certain fees (e.g., use of the surgical facility, anesthesia) are only charged once.
- Can nonsurgical procedures help: Nonsurgical body contouring treatments like truSculpt® can also complement your tummy tuck results. This noninvasive muscle toning treatment is quick and simple, building muscle in your buttocks, flanks, arms, or thighs to enhance their shape and sculpt your physique. Since each treatment takes only about 45 minutes, you can easily schedule them once you’ve recovered from your tummy tuck.
If you’re interested in combining procedures, discuss this with your plastic surgeon during the consultation.
Getting Started
If you’re ready to explore options for trimming your tummy after pregnancy, I’m happy to discuss your concerns, goals, and surgical options at your consultation. To get started, use our online form to request a consultation or call us at (518) 328-3330.
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