Pregnancy after Abdominoplasty Surgery

What You Need to Know about Pregnancy after Abdominoplasty

If you are considering undergoing abdominoplasty or have already had the procedure, you might be interested in finding out the details about how a subsequent pregnancy after Abdonimoplasty and how it could affect the results of your surgery.

Dr Bish Soliman is a Sydney based Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon performing abdominoplasty, as well as face, breasts and body contouring procedures.

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What Is an Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. This procedure can help individuals, especially women who have had multiple pregnancies or people who have had significant weight loss, achieve a flatter and more toned abdominal appearance. The surgery can address issues like excess/ sagging skin, stretch marks (to an extent, depending on their location), and separated or weakened abdominal muscles (diastasis recti).

Pregnancy after Abdominoplasty: What to Expect

When a patient has an abdominoplasty, excess skin is removed, and the abdominal muscles are tightened to create a flatter and more toned appearance. However, if the patient becomes pregnant post-surgery, the following changes and considerations may come into play:

Physical changes

After going through an abdominoplasty the body undergoes several structural adjustments. Should you become pregnant after abdominoplasty surgery, you can anticipate the following physical transformations:

• Abdominal Stretching: The most evident change is the stretching of the abdomen. Pregnancy causes your belly to expand, accommodating the growing baby. With a prior abdominoplasty, the skin and muscles, which had been tightened during the surgery, will be stretched again
• Muscle Separation: While an abdominoplasty often involves sewing together separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), a subsequent pregnancy can cause these muscles to separate once more due to the stretching
• Skin Elasticity Variations: Every person has a unique skin elasticity. While some women find that their skin returns close to its post-surgery state after giving birth, others may experience more permanent stretching or sagging
• Body Contour Alterations: The flatter appearance achieved from the abdominoplasty may be altered post-pregnancy. Some women might notice a difference in the shape or contour of their abdomen

Possible discomfort or pain during pregnancy due to prior surgery

While many women have comfortable pregnancies after getting an abdominoplasty, some report certain discomforts linked to their prior surgery:

• Tightness: One of the common feelings described is a sense of tightness, especially as the baby grows and the belly expands. This is largely due to the tightened muscles from the abdominoplasty adjusting to the growing uterus
• Sensitivity Around the Scar: The area around the surgical scar might become sensitive or tender as the skin stretches during pregnancy
• Abdominal Discomfort: Some women report a different kind of abdominal discomfort, which is often attributed to the reshaped muscles adjusting to the changes during pregnancy

Stretch marks and potential changes in the appearance of the scar

The skin’s response to pregnancy after an abdominoplasty can vary, and here’s what you might observe:

• New Stretch Marks: While an abdominoplasty may remove some existing stretch marks (those located on the excised skin), pregnancy can introduce new ones, especially as the skin stretches to accommodate the baby
• Scar Alterations: The abdominoplasty scar, typically situated low on the abdomen, can undergo changes. It might stretch, become more prominent, or change in colour. Some women find that the scar’s appearance improves after childbirth, while for others, it remains altered
• Scar Position Relative to Belly Shape: As the belly shape changes, the relative position of the scar can appear different. Some women notice that it might seem higher or lower based on the way the abdomen expands

When Is It Safe To Consider Pregnancy After An Abdominoplasty?

Deciding to grow your family after having an abdominoplasty is a personal decision, but understanding the medical implications is essential.

• Complete Healing: It’s generally advised to wait until you’ve fully healed from the abdominoplasty procedure before considering pregnancy. This can range from several months to a year or more, depending on individual recovery
• Preserving Surgical Results: By waiting a reasonable period after the abdominoplasty, you allow the results to settle. This means the skin, muscles, and scar have had adequate time to heal and mature. A premature pregnancy can compromise these results
• Comfort and Safety: Waiting ensures you experience minimal discomfort due to the surgery during pregnancy and reduces the chances of any complications that might arise from a not fully healed abdominal area

Seeking advice from professionals will provide clarity on the journey ahead:

• Understanding Surgical Changes: Dr Bish Soliman can explain the changes made during your abdominoplasty, the current state of your abdominal muscles, and the level of healing achieved
• Anticipating Pregnancy Changes: An obstetrician/gynaecologist can guide you on how the pregnancy might feel different after the surgery, addressing any unique concerns or considerations you need to be aware of
• Holistic View: By consulting both specialists, you get a complete picture. Dr Bish Soliman focuses on the surgical aspect, while the obstetrician/gynaecologist considers the overall health and wellness during pregnancy

Potential Complications during Childbirth

Having an abdominoplasty doesn’t necessarily complicate childbirth, but being informed is essential.

• Natural Birth: Generally, a prior abdominoplasty doesn’t impede the ability to have a vaginal birth. The uterus and baby grow, and the process of childbirth remains unaffected
• C-Section Considerations: If a caesarean section becomes necessary, it’s good practice to inform the surgeon about the prior abdominoplasty. Sometimes the incision for the C-section can be made in the same place as the abdominoplasty scar
• Abdominal Pressure: Some women might feel added pressure or tightness in the abdominal region during childbirth due to the tightened muscles from the abdominoplasty. It’s essential to communicate any unusual discomfort to the medical team during delivery

Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy Post-Abdominoplasty

Prenatal Care and Monitoring

Your first step to a safe and healthy pregnancy after an abdominoplasty should be consistent prenatal care.

• Regular Obstetrician Visits: Book and attend all recommended check-ups. Your doctor will monitor both you and your baby, ensuring everything progresses normally
• Open Communication: Be open with your obstetrician about your prior surgery. They might have specific advice or precautions for you to consider during pregnancy
• Additional Scans or Tests: Sometimes, doctors might recommend more frequent scans to monitor the baby’s growth, particularly if you feel unusual tightness or discomfort in the abdomen

Maintaining a Healthy Weight Gain during Pregnancy

Gaining the right amount of weight during pregnancy supports both your health and that of your baby.

• Balanced Diet: Focus on a well-rounded diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This nourishes your body and supports the baby’s development
• Monitor Weight Gain: Keep an eye on your weight. While weight gain is natural during pregnancy, excessive gain can put added strain on your abdominoplasty
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports healthy skin elasticity, which can be particularly essential after an abdominoplasty

Gentle Exercises to Support Abdominal Muscles

Supporting and strengthening your abdominal muscles during pregnancy can provide comfort, especially post-abdominoplasty.

• Prenatal Yoga: This is a popular choice for many expectant mothers. It’s gentle on the body, and there are specific poses that can strengthen the abdominal area without straining it
• Walking: A simple yet effective exercise, walking keeps you active without putting undue pressure on your abdomen
• Pilates: Seek out prenatal Pilates classes. They often incorporate movements that focus on core strength

Moisturising and Skin Care Tips to Ensure Scar Health and Elasticity

Your skin undergoes significant stretching during pregnancy. Proper care can help manage changes, especially around the abdominoplasty scar.

• Daily Moisturising: Apply a good quality moisturiser to your abdomen daily. This helps in maintaining skin elasticity and minimises itchiness
• Scar Oils or Creams: Consider products specifically designed for scar care. These can help keep the abdominoplasty scar supple as your belly grows
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sun exposure can darken scars. If your abdomen is exposed to the sun, ensure you use sunscreen or protective clothing

FAQs about Pregnancy after Abdominoplasty

What happens to the abdominal wall and skin elasticity if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty?

Post-surgery, the abdominal region undergoes significant changes, and understanding these can provide peace of mind during pregnancy.

• Abdominal Wall: An abdominoplasty often involves tightening the abdominal muscles. A subsequent pregnancy will stretch these muscles, but with proper healing and time post-surgery, this shouldn’t pose a significant problem
• Skin Elasticity: The elasticity varies from person to person. While the abdominoplasty removes excess skin, the remaining skin will still stretch during pregnancy. Proper skincare and hydration can support skin health during this time

Can I have a safe pregnancy after an abdominoplasty?

• Many women have healthy pregnancies after undergoing an abdominoplasty. However, it’s recommended to wait until you’ve fully healed from the surgery before becoming pregnant to ensure comfort and maintain the surgery’s results.

How long should I wait post-surgery before considering pregnancy?

• While the exact waiting period can vary, Dr Bish Soliman advises waiting at least a year after the procedure. This gives the body ample time to heal completely.

Will a subsequent pregnancy ruin my abdominoplasty results?

• While pregnancy will cause the abdominal muscles and skin to stretch, the degree of change post-pregnancy varies among individuals. Some women may find that their bodies bounce back close to the post-surgery state, while others might see more noticeable changes.

Will I feel more discomfort during pregnancy because of my abdominoplasty?

• Some women report feeling a bit more tightness or mild discomfort, especially as the pregnancy progresses. This is due to the tightened abdominal muscles from the abdominoplasty. However, the sensations vary among individuals.

Can the abdominoplasty scar stretch or become more noticeable during pregnancy?

• Yes, as the abdomen expands during pregnancy, there’s a possibility the abdominoplasty scar might stretch or alter in appearance. The degree of change often depends on individual skin elasticity and the scar’s location.

Can I exercise during pregnancy after an abdominoplasty?

• Yes, exercise is beneficial during pregnancy for both the mother’s and baby’s health. However, always consult with your doctor about the type and intensity of exercises suitable for you, especially considering your abdominoplasty.

Will I need a revision or another abdominoplasty after giving birth?

• It’s possible, but not always necessary. The decision for a second abdominoplasty or revision is personal and depends on how your body reacts post-pregnancy and your personal aesthetic goals.

Further Reading about Body Surgery with Dr Bish Soliman

• Read Dr Soliman’s Body Contouring Surgery Page
• Read Dr Soliman’s Abdominoplasty Surgery Page
• Read Dr Soliman’s Excess Skin Removal
• Read Dr Soliman’s Liposuction Surgery Page
• Read Dr Soliman’s Blog about How to Reduce and Improve Your Abdominoplasty – Abdominoplasty Scar
• Read Dr Bish’s Blog about Medicare for Abdominoplasty
• Read Dr Bish Soliman’s Blog about Preparing for Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty)

Medical References about Pregnancy after Abdominoplasty Surgery

• Pregnancy After Abdominoplasty – NCBI
• Pregnancy One Month Post Abdominoplasty: A Case Report and Review – NCBI
• Changes to Abdominal Muscles After Pregnancy May Affect ‘Abdominoplasty’ Results – American Society of Plastic Surgeons