Abdominoplasty for restoring desired body contours after childbirth
While starting a family is a deeply fulfilling experience for many women, the physical changes following pregnancy can significantly affect self-esteem, mental health, and social comfort. Abdominoplasty is one option to address these changes and restore a pre-pregnancy body shape.
Gabrielė Latakaitė-Čiuladė, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Vilnius Cardiolita Clinics, highlights that this procedure addresses not only cosmetic concerns but also health issues such as back pain from weight gain and weakened abdominal muscles.
The surgery involves removing excess skin and fat, repairing separated abdominal muscles, and fixing issues like white lines or umbilical hernias. Abdominoplasty is often performed alongside liposuction, which targets fat in the waist and back areas to create a more contoured and defined waistline.
Additionally, liposuction can be used to address volume loss in other areas of the body. Lipofilling, which involves transferring fat to areas like the breasts, face, or buttocks, is common, though it's important to note that only about 40-60% of the transferred fat typically remains over time.
Before opting for abdominoplasty, several factors should be considered:
- The procedure is typically recommended at least one year after childbirth.
- Breastfeeding should be completed before undergoing surgery.
- Post-surgery, a compression corset and sweat protection for the wound are required, which can be more comfortable during colder months.
- The patient's body mass index (BMI) should not exceed 30.
- Avoid lifting anything heavier than 5 kg for two months following the surgery.
