Will A Tummy Tuck Get Rid Of My C-Section Scar?

It is no secret that pregnancy and childbirth, while beautiful stages of life, can result in physical changes that make a woman feel less like herself. Although many women consider stretch marks, scars, and other “flaws” associated with their childbirth journey “badges of honor,” there is absolutely no shame in wanting to correct some of these imperfections and restore your pre-pregnancy body.

One of the most common concerns for women after having children is loose, excess skin around the abdomen. When the womb stretches to accommodate the growing baby, it can be difficult – if not impossible – for the skin to return to its original state, even after all of the pregnancy weight has been lost. This can be extremely frustrating and can lead many women to turn to cosmetic surgery for help. award-winning plastic surgeon Dr. J. Timothy Katzen has helped countless Beverly Hills women achieve their ideal bodies and rid themselves of the excess skin associated with pregnancy through the tummy tuck procedure.

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to produce a flatter, smoother, and more taut midsection by removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal fascia. In many cases, liposuction is performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck in order to remove stubborn pockets of fat and enhance a patient’s results. The final outcome can be dramatic and stunning, and when performed alongside breast augmentation and/or breast lift as part of a larger mommy makeover procedure, the results can be truly life-changing.

Can I get a tummy tuck after a C-section?

After a C-section, it is understandable that women are curious about whether they are still candidates for a tummy tuck. The answer is “yes!” A tummy tuck can be safely performed after a C-section in most cases, but it is important to wait until you have completely healed from your original surgery and the other aspects of childbirth before pursuing a tummy tuck. The dedicated and knowledgeable team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills can help advise you on when it may be appropriate to consider a tummy tuck after C-section, but in general, patients should follow these guidelines:

Be fully healed from their C-section: It is important to remember that your body has just gone through nine months of carrying a baby, followed by a major surgery. Before undergoing another surgical procedure, you need to allow yourself ample time to heal properly and completely. This can take different amounts of time for different patients, but usually a woman can consider a tummy tuck about 6-12 months after her C-section.

Be at an ideal weight: Patients considering a tummy tuck after a C-section should be at or near their goal weight, within about 5-10 pounds, and ideally have maintained that weight for at least six months prior to a tummy tuck. Future weight fluctuations can compromise the results of a tummy tuck, so patients should commit to a healthy lifestyle before and after their procedure.

Be a healthy non-smoker: As with any surgical procedure, candidates for a tummy tuck after a C-section should be healthy non-smokers with no contraindications to surgery or anesthesia.

Will a tummy tuck get rid of my C-section scar and stretch marks?

One of the first questions women ask when considering a tummy tuck after a C-section is whether or not the procedure can get rid of their scar, stretch marks, and other cosmetic flaws. The tummy tuck is a fantastic option for removing stretched-out skin that remains after childbirth, and removing all or most associated stretch marks. Dr. Katzen makes every effort to remove as much excess skin as is safely possible during a tummy tuck.

While the results of a tummy tuck can be incredible, it is still a surgical procedure that requires a lengthy incision. Patients should have realistic expectations about scarring. In some cases, Dr. Katzen is able to completely remove C-section scar during the tummy tuck. However, this depends on a patient’s anatomy, the amount of scar tissue present, and a variety of other factors. Dr. Katzen is highly experienced in the tummy tuck procedure and places incisions carefully and strategically, so that any resulting scars can be concealed with undergarments, swimsuits, and other clothing. The vast majority of patients who undergo a tummy tuck agree that their gorgeous new contour is well worth the scar.

How do I find the best tummy tuck surgeon in Beverly Hills?

If you are considering a tummy tuck after your C-section, the first step is to be evaluated by a highly qualified, experienced, and certified plastic surgeon. Call J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills to schedule your consultation with Dr. Katzen today, and learn more about how a tummy tuck or mommy makeover can help you achieve the body you once had or the body you have always wanted!