How to Address a Loose Belly After Pregnancy

Effects of Pregnancy on the Abdominal Wall

While the baby grows, the abdominal wall stretches. This causes the abdominal muscles to lengthen. The skin stretches and gets larger. Meanwhile, the mother gains weight, which adds fat to her abdominal wall. In the end, many mothers have an abdominal wall with loose skin, weak muscles and more fat. Tummy tuck surgeries are used to tighten the skin, remove fat from the abdomen and tighten weakened muscles.

Women Who Have C-Sections are Particularly Vulnerable

Loose skin is also a problem for women who give birth via a c-section. These problems occur because the abdominal muscles are weak and there is now excess abdominal tissue. Generally, diet and exercise are unable to correct these issues.

When Diet and Exercise Fail, a Tummy Tuck May be the Answer

The inability to correct this problem through exercise and diet frequently leads to negative self-esteem, self-image and a decrease in self-confidence. These are usually the reasons a woman makes an appointment with Dr. Roudner to inquire about an abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck).

Other Issues Following Pregnancy

While a tummy tuck is the best way to contend with the abdominal muscles and excess skin, there are other problems associated with pregnancy. Problems such as a decrease in the volume and firmness of the breasts and localized fat collections can also be an issue. Dr. Roudner can also correct these problems by performing a breast lift with or without breast implants as well as liposuction procedures.

Ideal Candidates for a Tummy Tuck

The best candidates for a tummy tuck procedure are those who have completed their family, have a low Body Mass Index (BMI), are within 10 to 20 pounds of their recommended body weight, do not smoke, are in good overall health and are 6 months after the pregnancy.

Who Should Not Consider a Tummy Tuck

Dr. Roudner does not recommend a tummy tuck for individuals who have a high percentage of body fat. Generally, Dr. Roudner advises diet and exercise in a situation such as this. He suggests this because a significantly obese individual is more likely to suffer complications during the tummy tuck procedure. Once an individual loses the excess weight, a tummy tuck procedure may be performed to remove any excess skin.

The Tummy Tuck Procedure

During your tummy tuck procedure, you will be given medications to keep you asleep. This process is referred to as general anesthesia. A tummy tuck procedure performed by Dr. Roudner is usually an outpatient procedure. For this reason, you will need to be accompanied by a caregiver that can drive you and care for you after your tummy tuck procedure.

Recovering From Your Tummy Tuck

While a tummy tuck can provide you with amazing results, the recovery period is significant. You will be moving slow for about two weeks after your surgery. Be prepared to have someone stay with you and help you around your home for at least the first week after your tummy tuck procedure.

Dr. Roudner will Monitor Your Progress After Your Tummy Tuck

After your surgery, you will need to follow-up with Dr. Roudner on a regular basis for the first two or three weeks.

If you reside in or near Miami and are interested in a tummy tuck procedure, contact Dr. Roudner’s office today. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has received the Patients’ Choice Award for three years in a row. He and his staff are dedicated to giving their patients the best care available in the Miami area.