19 months after having children - What can I do to improve my stomach? (Photo)

Question

I’ve had 2 kids and this is what my stomach looks like 19 months later. I’m wondering if a tummy tuck is my only option? I know it’s not too bad but my belly button bothers me the most. I’m also worried if I got a tummy tuck the belly button scar would be higher on me and not be completely removed, therefore left with a huge scar and then a belly button scar as well. I’m just not sure if it’s worth it or what else I could do.

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

A full tummy tuck would give the most complete improvement by removing excess skin, tightening the abdomen and recreating the belly button in a more natural shape. The belly button you see now would not be left in place, it would be reshaped during surgery, so the concern about having both the old scar and a new belly button is not usually an issue.
If your main concern is only the belly button itself, an umbilicoplasty can be performed as a smaller procedure, but it will not address the loose skin around it. Non surgical skin tightening treatments can create modest improvement, but they do not change the belly button’s appearance significantly.
The decision depends on whether you want a subtle change (umbilicoplasty or non surgical options) or a comprehensive correction (tummy tuck).
I have also shared a detailed video where I explain how the belly button is recreated during tummy tuck and show examples of how the scar is planned to remain low and hidden.
&mdash; Güray Yesiladali, MD

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

It’s difficult to give a complete answer to your question as I do not have the benefit of having a physical exam and understanding how loose your tissues of your abdomen are.  A tummy tuck will remove the loose skin of your abdomen and re-approximate the muscles of your abdomen, if required. The incisions for a tummy tuck can be kept very low, with the possibility of having a vertical scar above the horizontal tummy tuck scar if your belly button opening can’t be fully removed. Another option is to position the horizontal tummy tuck scar high on your abdomen to assure that the opening for your belly button can be removed and that you would just need to accept a slightly higher tummy, tuck incision line.  Other options, such as an umbilical float are possible, but would need a in-depth consultation with your plastic surgeon for you to understand.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cassmom99,

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

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

You are a great candidate for tummy tuck surgery. Loose skin is a natural part of the post baby body, and  unfortunately, it is not possible to prevent it from happening. Women naturally gain weight during pregnancy. The weight a person gains during this time will naturally affect loose skin after pregnancy. Tummy tuck is a great solution and the results are instant.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you are not planning future pregnancies, I recommend abdominoplasty with mesh reinforcement. The mesh creates a more hourglass figure by compressing the abdominal wall resulting in early satiety and helps maintain a reduced weight.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

It seems you are a good candidate for an abdominoplasty.  Yes, I suspect he would have the extra vertical scar, but as you say it is a trade off.  Look at plenty of before and after photographs and make your own decision whether the trade-off is worth it.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question.
It is hard to say based on this photo. You may need a tummy tuck vs. liposuction. Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options. Best wishes!

Kamol Pansritum, MD · Answer

A full tummy tuck will help tighten the skin and remove some existing scars. The area above your belly button will be tightened, resulting in a smoother and more regular appearance.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the provided photo it appears you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck!  This would remove excess fat and skin as well as correct abdominal wall laxity.  The result would be a flatter, tighter tummy.  The stretch marks below the belly button would be removed as part of the procedure and the scar above the belly button would be pulled low.  The best place to begin is a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

19 months after having children - What can I do to improve my stomach? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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