Can tummy tuck before pregnancy lead to preterm labor or other complications?

Question

I did liposuction on my abdomen and it still doesn't look like as flat as I would like it to be. I'm considering tummy tack to hide a long appendectomy scar. The doctor thinks muscle tightening is not necessary although he thinks I have some muscle weakness. If there is a very slight chance that I'll get pregnant, should I still do the muscle tightening and will minimal tightening be safer? Im 42 with one c section birth, 147 pounds, 5.6, stomach , don't have loose skin.

William Bruno, MD · Answer

Generally it is not advised to become pregnant after a tummy tuck for cosmetic reasons. However there are no concerns for the developing fetus should you become pregnant after a tummy tuck (even with muscle tightening). Consult with another plastic surgeon for a complete examination if you have concerns or questions about your anatomy or about your surgical plan.Best wishes,Dr.Bruno

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I have not observed this to be a concern.  The main issue may be that a revision may be necessary following pregnancy.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If there is a chance you are going to gave more children, I would recommend the tummy tuck but no muscle repair.  There is no evidence that I am aware of that a tummy tuck and muscle repair is detrimental to future pregnancy, but pregnancy could disrupt the muscle repair.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Sy77,There is no published literature that suggests such a complication. You have 9 months for your body to adjust to the pregnancy if it happens which is plenty of time for your body to adjust. If you keep a healthy weight, you won't lose too much of your result either.I hope this was helpful,Dr. Daniel BarrettPlastic and Reconstructive SurgeryBeverly Hills, CA

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

I have seen it many times and let me reassure you that Tummy Tuck will not interfere with your normal pregnancy or delivery. Because the pregnancy takes 9 months to develop the volume on your abdomen, the muscle and skin have the perfect chance to stretch and won't interfere with the normal evolution. Plus if you do not put on so much weight (20 lbs max) your result may remain even 90%Dr. Cardenas

Can tummy tuck before pregnancy lead to preterm labor or other complications?

Answers (5)