14 months postpartum, left with loose skin. Will weight loss make this more noticeable? Will I need a tummy tuck? (photo)

Question

I am 14 months postpartum (c-section) and currently 130 lbs. My stomach looks normal when I’m standing. However when I’m leaning/bending forward my stomach is unrecognizable. Will shedding this small amount of weight make my loose skin more noticeable when standing up and result in the need of a mini tummy tuck possibly?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Skin laxity is common after pregnancy.  Significant weight loss may make the laxity worse, but small weight changes will not likely have a big impact.  If you have completed your family you can consider a tummy tuck.  This would remove excess fat and skin as well as correct any abdominal wall separation.  See a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Courtney41792,
based on your photos, you look like a good candidate for a TT. Full tummy tuck should tighten your abdominal muscles and remove the excess skin. Flanks liposuction would give you a better shape. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon because only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Weight loss in some circumstances will leave you with loose skin, especially if the skin elasticity is lost. Judging by your photos, I am not sure how much more loose skin you would be left with. I would recommend getting down to a comfortable weight that you can maintain and reassess things at that time.

You may be happy with where things are at or you may benefit from a procedure (mini tummy tuck vs full).

Hope that helps.

You may be happy with where things are at or you may benefit from a procedure (mini tummy tuck vs full).

Hope that helps.

Felix Omar Márquez, MD · Answer

Hi, thanks for your question and photos. After 14 months, you are a candidate for a Tummy Tuck, to repair saggy and damaged skin. You can have great results with Lipo and Full Tummy Tuck, to stretch your waist. Remember that only after a physical exam is possible to say your best procedure, so consult a plastic surgeon in your area. Good luck!

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

CURRENTLY YOU NEED A TUMMY TUCK, BECAUSE YOU ALREADY HAVE LOOSE SKIN, THE MORE WEIGHT YOU LOSE, THE MORE NOTICEABLE IT WILL BE BECAUSE THE FAT THAT IS BELOW THE SKIN GIVES IT SUPPORT, THE LESS FAT, THE LESS SUPPORT AND SO THE LOOSER THE SKIN WILL BE

14 months postpartum, left with loose skin. Will weight loss make this more noticeable? Will I need a tummy tuck? (photo)

Answers (5)