How Long After Pregnancy Should I Wait To Get A Tummy Tuck

Giving birth is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful things a woman can experience in life. However, it often comes at a price, as having a baby can change many things. Not only will you no longer get to enjoy that much-needed eight hours of sleep or have the pleasure to go out on a whim on a Friday night, but you will also lose your once flat tummy and perky bosom. Many women have to deal with some sagging in their lower abdominal area after delivering a baby.

Sadly, no amount of exercise or diet can make this pouch totally disappear. The good news is that you can regain some parts of your life back after pregnancy. Your baby will eventually sleep well through the night, and so will you. With a bit of help from plastic surgery, you can get a mommy makeover and reclaim your body. 

Are you thinking of getting a tummy tuck but unsure how long you’re supposed to wait before undergoing this procedure? Read on to learn more about a few factors you need to consider as you plan for your post-pregnancy surgery: 

BREASTFEEDING

Experts recommend that you wait at least three months after you finish breastfeeding before you undergo a tummy tuck. This is because breastfeeding generally leads to hormonal changes, which can affect your weight and recovery process. Besides, the medications you will have to take during and after your surgery will work their way into your breastmilk. This can pose a risk to your baby. 

WEIGHT FLUCTUATIONS

Pregnancy usually causes women to gain weight. Those extra pounds often linger even after you’ve given birth to your baby. A tummy tuck can indeed aid in enhancing the look of your abdominal area. But it’s not designed to be a weight-loss solution. As a matter of fact, this cosmetic surgery procedure is generally most effective when the patient is at or near their ideal weight and is not struggling with weight fluctuations. Any substantial weight gain or loss can impact the laxity of your tummy skin. This can essentially undo the expected outcome of your surgery. It’s highly recommended that you wait until your weight has stabilized or near your goal. The duration required for this will vary for every patient. 

FUTURE PREGNANCY PLANS

Besides weight inconstancies, additional pregnancies can also stretch your tummy skin and muscles. This can potentially reduce the tightening your surgery has achieved. A tummy tuck cannot stop you from having any more children in the future. But the time and money you’ve invested will definitely be more worthwhile if you can maintain the desired results for as long as possible. 

Generally speaking, giving yourself six months to a year following childbirth will be ideal. This period will allow your hormone levels to stabilize, your weight to become stable, and your body to heal smoothly. If you’re in doubt whether you’re ready for a tummy tuck, a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon will be vital. 

At Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center, we can assess your condition and help determine when a tummy tuck is suitable for you. 

Find out if you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck, contact Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center in Houston at (281) 502-5100 to book an appointment.