Getting A Tummy Tuck After Pregnancy

Mothers around the New York City area have experienced post-baby physical issues. Some may find that is highly difficult to acquire their pre-baby body, especially in the tummy area. Some mothers are lucky and bounce back to tip top shape and flat tummy’s while other new mothers have tried exercising, dieting and still don’t have the desired results.

Even mothers who were athletic before their pregnancy who were in perfect, lean physical shape can experience difficulties in regaining their athletic appearance. One of the most common post-pregnancy issues is called diastasis recti. This is when someone experiences separated abdominal muscles after pregnancy. It does not cause pain, but it does result in the tummy bowing outwards, frequently resembling the look of being a few months pregnant, even though you have already given birth.

A tummy tuck is a common procedure that many NYC patients inquire about. Experiencing a tummy tuck involves a high level of discomfort and a recuperation period. It is wise to arrange 24 hour child care previous to your tummy tuck. There is a variety of tummy tuck procedures but the traditional and most common tummy tuck procedure includes a horizontal cut between the pubic bone and the navel. The incision can be just a few inches or can be the length of the abdomen. It depends on the situation and what is best suited for each individual patient. The skin is then pulled back, excess fat is removed, the abdominal muscles are repaired if necessary, the skin flap is stretched and pulled tightly, a new hole for the belly button is created and any excess skin is then cut away.

Since there is a high level of discomfort after the procedure, doctors prescribe pain medication to help ease the pain. It takes 10 to 14 days before you can do regular activities. You will not be able to drive due to being on pain meds for the first week or so. Also during the first week after surgery a tube is placed to drain excess fluid and blood. Swelling from the tummy tuck lessens in about a month, but it can take up to six months to completely dissolve.

Since you are a mother and most likely have a busy schedule, it is highly recommended to ask family and friends for help and support until you fully heal from the tummy tuck procedure. Expect to be in bed resting and not able to drive for up to two weeks. This means you will need to do preparations for your children and family, plus request time off of work. You will also need someone to help care for you, cook your meals and assist with removing the drain bag that has accumulated the excess fluid and blood during your recovery.

While there is pain involved with the tummy tuck procedure, a two week recovery time and a good six months until you see the true final result, NYC patients are frequently happy with the final results and feel more confident that they did with their pre-pregnancy body.