Will Pregnancy Change The Results Of My Tummy Tuck?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am 5’ 5” and weigh 172 lbs. I am considering a tummy tuck to get rid of my belly that is hanging over my pant line. I am not completely sure I am done having children but I want to go ahead and have a tummy tuck anyway. I am tired if carrying around this belly. My question is can I have a tummy tuck under local or something less than general anesthesia? Also if I should have another child in the future will I be able to get by without changing the look of the tummy tuck?

A: To get the best result from a tummy tuck, it really needs to be done under a general anesthetic. A tummy tuck is one cosmetic operation where the option of a local or IV sedation is just not practical and would not even be considered. Any pregnancy that goes to full-term is going to affect the results of any tummy tuck procedure. It is just a question to what degree will the tummy tuck change and how much loose abdominal skin will result. While it is likely that it will not create a complete return to the way you look now with a significant abdominal overhang, some new skin rolls will likely result.  

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana