Welcoming a new addition to the family is perhaps one of the greatest joys a couple shares. From pregnancy to postpartum, your body transforms as it prepares to bring life into the world. Afterward, if you are eager to return your physique to its pre-pregnancy status, you might consider plastic surgery.
“Mommy makeovers,” specific cosmetic procedures designed to correct changes in the body that diet and exercise cannot completely achieve, are popular with new parents. Liposuction, tummy tucks, and breast modification can help restore a youthful look to your body, and increase self-esteem and energy for your new role. Before you schedule an appointment with your plastic surgeon, however, it is important to know exactly when is the right time to undergo the work.
It is strongly recommended to wait at least six months after giving birth before scheduling a procedure. After pregnancy and delivery, your body needs time to heal before you subject yourself to another hospital stay. Other considerations to make include:
Family. Postpartum tummies can have a flabby, saggy appearance. A tummy tuck can help tighten skin in this area, but if you plan to have another child you may wish to wait. While getting pregnant sometime after cosmetic surgery won’t affect the baby’s growth in utero, you may find the work put into your abdominal procedure comes undone.
If you are serious about body sculpting in the tummy area, it’s best to wait until you have finished having children so you can avoid multiple procedures.
Breastfeeding. Say your most recent baby is your last. Are you breastfeeding? If so, it is best to wait until you have weaned your child before you begin a procedure. If you are prescribed medications before and after your surgery, the risk of said medication getting into your breast milk increases. Also, weaning a child leads to further hormonal changes in your body. It is advised to wait until you have physically settled before getting any work done.
Weight. It is natural for new mothers to be concerned about “baby weight.” Some lose it more quickly than others, but if you are seeking a tummy tuck to restore your body’s original shape you may be advised to lose some weight first. Losing weight before a procedure can increase the chances of retention. If you drop weight after a tummy tuck, you may risk sagging skin.
Have other questions about cosmetic surgery after pregnancy. Dr. Kanter of Peninsula Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery is ready to consult with you. Contact us today online or call to make an appointment.