Seeing an ideal outcome after a tummy tuck is contingent on a lot of interdependent factors, many of which—like your surgeon’s skill—may feel out of your control. As a patient, though, there are four rules you can follow in order to help ensure that your body contouring results match or exceed your expectations.
Reach Your Target Weight First
An abdominoplasty is cosmetic, and should not be confused with gastric bypass or other weight loss surgery. However, while a tummy tuck won’t help you lose weight directly, body contouring can help show off your new shape after weight loss by improving the appearance of any loose, saggy skin around the midsection.
Maintain a Steady Weight
Over time, your tummy tuck results may be compromised if your weight fluctuates significantly after your surgery. In order to enjoy your new look for years to come, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re already at a healthy weight that you can realistically maintain down the road before you think about body contouring.
Complete Your Family
Although it’s physically possible to get pregnant and deliver a healthy baby after having a tummy tuck, most surgeons will recommend that you wait until your family is complete before scheduling a tummy tuck or mommy makeover. Post-tummy tuck pregnancies could cause the retightened skin and muscles to stretch out again, potentially undermining your results.
Timing Is Everything
While we’re on the subject of babies, most surgeons typically recommend waiting at least six months after delivery before considering cosmetic surgery. The best time to schedule your mommy makeover or tummy tuck is after your body has had ample healing time after pregnancy and childbirth, and you’re no longer nursing.