What's the best approach for correcting my c section overhang? (photos)

Question

I had a emergency c section with my first and it left the overhang which is quite prominent compared to others I have seen. Before my 2nd I got down to under 8 stone, and it was still noticeably visable. I had my 2nd and it's stretched it back out. I'm loosing the weight, but the over hang is effecting me alot now. I know it's going to be a surgery route as it's caused by cutting through muscle etc. What are my options though, after I lose the weight?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

When patients have experienced extreme weight loss due to diet and exercise, #gastricbypass surgery, or #stomachstapling  or #lapband surgery, there will be excess body skin that needs removal. In order to correct this problem many patients will need a #TummyTuck surgery, #panniculectomy, or #abdominoplasty. This is becoming a highly requested procedure among patients who wish to rid themselves of excess skin and tighten muscle in their abdominal area. This procedure can be beneficial for women with loose skin and stretch marks following pregnancy, and patients who have undergone significant weight loss.Depending on the amount of skin that you have sagging there are a variety of procedures available:Mini-abdominoplasty tightens the lower abdominal wall and skin below the umbilicus, belly button, only (shortest scar).

Modified abdominoplasty addresses conditions where just the muscle wall or just the abdominal skin requires repair.

Standard abdominoplasty tightens all of the abdominal wall skin and muscles above and below the belly button. The scar can be altered or lowered to be hidden by most panty lines and bathing suits. (Standard scar).

Extended abdominoplasty tightens the abdomen and the flanks or sides (longest scar extending around the flanks onto lower back.)

A general anesthetic is most common, although mini-tucks may be done with local anesthetic and intravenous sedation. A standard abdominoplasty is generally an outpatient procedure, but extended abdominoplasty may require a short hospitalization of 1–2 days. I would say that you likely would not need the extended or even standard procedure, and that most likely the mini or modified abdominoplasty would help you tighten up all of the loose skin from your weight loss. Just be sure to cover all of the options with your surgeon in consultation.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based upon photos provided, you appear to be an excellent candidate for a full tummy tuck. The abdominal skin excision and muscle tightening could give you an excellent contour as well as improve the tone of the anterior abdominal wall. Liposuction could be used to better define your flanks and hips at the time of tummy tuck surgery. Please see a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring for an in-person examination to discuss the specific details of the procedures. Ask to see before and after photos to get an idea of what can be achieved. I offer complimentary consultations to discuss your treatment options. Hope this helps!

Robert V. Mandraccia, MD · Answer

looks like a tummy tuck will help you. Involves removing skin, tightening muscles and moving belly button. I use IV sedation anesthesia for safety, but general anesthesia is fine as well. Good luck.

Mark Hanikeri, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hi and thanks for the photos and question.  You appear to be a good candidate for a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) with or without liposuction.  This is very effective to address the excess skin and bulging from stretched muscles after pregnancy.  I would advise that you wait until you have finished having children and then see a Specialist Plastic Surgeon for an opinion.I hope that helps.Regards

Dr Mark Hanikeri MBBS, FRACS

Perth Specialist Plastic Surgeon

What's the best approach for correcting my c section overhang? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Post pregnancy tummy tuck

Answer: Post pregnancy tummy tuck

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What's the best approach for correcting my c section overhang? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Post pregnancy tummy tuck

Answer: Post pregnancy tummy tuck

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.