Tummy Tuck and Pregnancy: What are the Risks?

Posted in Plastic Surgery and Pregnancy

It is generally recommended that women should complete their families before having a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure. The reason for this is simply that the abdominal muscles and skin will be significantly stretched during pregnancy, which can have a major effect on the results of a tummy tuck. When this happens, a secondary tummy tuck can often restore those results.

That is, of course, an aesthetic risk of pregnancy following a tummy tuck. As far as health risks, most women will likely not face any significant concerns, and a tummy tuck should not affect one’s fertility or ability to give birth. One thing to note: tummy tuck surgery is often performed after an individual has been pregnant, specifically to address the physiological changes in the abdomen that have resulted from pregnancy. With that in mind, the notion of whether you are planning to have further children should be a consideration while weighing your decision to have tummy tuck surgery. Sometimes, it’s best to wait until your family is complete in order to avoid the possible necessity of a secondary procedure to restore the original results.

Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. David L. Durst, will answer all of your questions during the initial consultation and talk with you about the best options for your needs