Post-Pregnancy & Post-Childbirth Belly Sagging: Analysis of Changes 3 Months After Abdominal Lift Surgery
Patient Registration Info
| Age | Weight | Height | BMI |
|---|---|---|---|
|
in their 30s |
70kg |
158cm |
28 |
Surgical site
abdominoplasty, M-type, Triple lock, Navel Correction, abdomen & bra line liposuction
4300cc
If you are considering or have decided to undergo abdominoplasty, concerns about scarring are natural.
Since the incision is relatively long and the full recovery process can take up to two years, it is understandable that patients may worry about the appearance of scars.
Unlike other cosmetic procedures, abdominoplasty requires long-term follow-up and scar management. Therefore, it is important to remain patient throughout the healing process rather than feeling overly anxious.
While focusing on the benefits of abdominoplasty is essential, it is equally important to fully understand the potential side effects and post-operative care required to ensure a smooth recovery.
The patient we will be analyzing today underwent a cesarean section approximately five years ago to give birth to two children. As a result, she experienced significant skin laxity across her entire abdomen and severe abdominal wall weakening in the upper abdominal area.
Although the patient had a general understanding of abdominoplasty, she required further explanation regarding the most suitable surgical approach for her current degree of skin and muscle laxity.
Upon consultation, the patient initially expressed a preference for a mini-abdominoplasty. However, based on the degree of skin laxity and muscle separation, it was determined that a more comprehensive procedure was necessary, including upper abdominal muscle tightening and excess skin removal.
To address the overall abdominal sagging and achieve a more contoured waistline, we proceeded with abdominal liposuction, bra-line liposuction, a medium-type abdominoplasty, and rectus muscle plication.
The surgical plan involved removing the severely sagging skin from the upper to the lower abdomen and repairing the stretched abdominal wall that had not recovered since pregnancy. This approach aimed to create a firmer and more sculpted abdominal contour.
However, we explained that opting for a medium-type abdominoplasty rather than a mini-abdominoplasty would result in a slightly longer incision and require repositioning of the belly button. Consequently, the patient also needed a procedure to correct both the position and shape of the navel.
Now, let’s review and analyze the results by comparing the preoperative images with those taken five months post-surgery.
When comparing the preoperative and five-month postoperative images of the abdominoplasty, it is evident that the excess skin and abdominal wall laxity caused by two pregnancies and childbirth have been corrected through abdominoplasty and rectus muscle plication. This successfully addressed the patient’s primary concern—sagging abdominal skin.
Additionally, the combination of abdominoplasty with abdominal liposuction provided a synergistic effect, resulting in a slimmer and more contoured waistline.
The stretch marks that were previously prominent above the navel are no longer visible, as the excess skin was pulled downward and removed during the procedure.
Furthermore, the navel, which previously appeared droopy due to skin laxity, was repositioned through an umbilicoplasty into a more vertical shape, enhancing the appearance of a slimmer waistline.
Especially before surgery, when the patient bent forward, the excess skin and weakened abdominal wall caused the abdomen to sag downward, making the body appear heavier.
However, after undergoing abdominoplasty, abdominal wall correction, and liposuction, the front abdomen was smoothly lifted, and the waistline became noticeably slimmer and more contoured.
Most patients are concerned about post-surgical scars, and this patient was also curious about the recovery period and aftercare.
As mentioned earlier, abdominoplasty scars require a relatively long healing period, and the time it takes for the scar to fade into a fine line varies from patient to patient. This was thoroughly explained to the patient.
In the early stages after surgery, redness or dark pigmentation may appear, but these gradually fade over time. Rather than feeling anxious, patients are advised to carefully follow the recommended treatments and aftercare steps.
Scar management includes scheduled scar laser treatments, injections if necessary, and essential self-care methods such as scar creams and silicone sheets. By following these step-by-step care instructions, patients can effectively manage their scars and allow them to gradually fade into fine lines.
Additionally, the scar from abdominoplasty is located in an area that can be fully covered by underwear, so patients are reassured that they do not need to overly stress about its visibility.
However, as with any surgery, the most crucial factor in scar management is consistency.
To ensure scars fade optimally, patients should take responsibility for long-term follow-up care, monitor their scar condition, and undergo additional treatments if needed. With diligent care, a better aesthetic outcome can be achieved over time.
