Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, and while some of these changes resolve over time, others may persist despite healthy lifestyle habits. Post-pregnancy surgery involves a combination of procedures that address physical changes resulting from pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What Is Post-Pregnancy Surgery?
A post-pregnancy surgery typically includes:
- An abdominoplasty
- A breast lift (mastopexy), sometimes combined with breast implants or a breast reduction
These procedures are intended to help with stretched abdominal skin, weakened muscles, and changes in breast volume and shape.
Abdominal Changes After Pregnancy
Pregnancy often affects the abdominal area. As the baby grows, the skin stretches and the abdominal muscles may separate, a condition known as diastasis recti. After childbirth and weight stabilisation, the skin and muscles may not return to their previous state, even with targeted exercise.
A post-pregnancy surgery removes excess skin and repairs the muscle separation beneath. This can help reduce abdominal bulging and improve waistline shape. In some cases, liposuction is performed at the same time to address localised fat in the flanks or upper abdomen.
Breast Changes and Lift Surgery
Pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to changes in breast shape and size. A breast lift (mastopexy) elevates the breast tissue and removes excess skin, resulting in a firmer position.
Will You Need Implants?
Not everyone requires implants. If you’re satisfied with your current breast size in an unpadded bra, a lift on its own may be appropriate. If you wish for more volume in the upper part of the breast or an overall larger size, implants may be recommended alongside the lift. Or if you would rather some reduction in size, then this can be combined with a lift.
Types of Scars
The type of scar will depend on the amount of lift needed. Common patterns include:
- Around the areola (periareolar)
- Around the areola with a vertical scar to the breast fold (lollipop)
- An anchor-shaped pattern including a horizontal line under the breast
These scars generally fade over time and are placed to be easily covered by clothing.
Sensation and Breastfeeding Considerations
Some patients experience changes in nipple sensation, ranging from no change to increased or decreased sensitivity. While permanent changes are uncommon, they are possible.
Breastfeeding after a breast lift can still be possible. Although the surgery may affect some of the milk ducts or tissue, many individuals are able to breastfeed, with or without the need for supplementation.
Recovery and Time Off
Most patients stay in the hospital for two nights after surgery. Light activities can usually be resumed within a couple of weeks after discharge, but full recovery may take around six weeks. During this time, you should avoid lifting anything heavier than a kettle to support proper healing particularly of the muscle repair.
Time off work depends on your job. Those in office-based roles may return in about three weeks, while more physically active roles may require around four weeks of leave.
Is This Surgery Appropriate for You?
Post-pregnancy surgery may be suitable if you’re experiencing ongoing physical changes after childbirth that have not improved through lifestyle measures. It’s generally recommended once the weight has stabilised and no further pregnancies are planned, as future pregnancies may undo some of the surgical results.
A comprehensive consultation will help clarify your objectives, examine your anatomy, and assess whether these procedures are suitable for you.
Dr Sophie Ricketts is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with a special interest in post-pregnancy procedures, including abdominoplasty and breast surgery.
