West Coast Plastic Surgery

west coast plastic surgery logo
west coast plastic surgery logo
Menu

Post Pregnancy Surgery

an illustration of a pregnant woman holding her stomach

During pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, your body undergoes numerous changes. Even though diet and exercise may have helped, pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can cause changes to your body, and some of these may not revert with diet and exercise alone. But West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth is here to help. Pregnancy has a significant impact on:

Breasts: Breast size increases with pregnancy and breastfeeding. As the breast enlarges and the nipple-areola complex grows, the ducts and lobules expand too. There may be a slight difference in breast size in women with small breasts, however, women with medium and large breasts may experience a more significant size change along with ptosis.

Abdomen: Your belly is may also be affected by your pregnancy. Your genetics and anatomy affect the degree of long-term body changes. These changes can include separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, bulge or hernia, excess abdominal wall fat and skin, abdominal skin stretch marks and skin folds. 

In addition to the breasts and abdomen, other areas of the body like thighs and arms may also experience similar changes related to fat deposition and skin stretching.

 

Post-pregnancy surgery is a term that refers to a combination of procedures aimed at addressing physical changes that may occur after childbirth, such as changes in breast shape and abdominal muscle tone. It’s tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, focusing on restoring the body to its pre-pregnancy shape to address concerns such as volume loss in the breasts or abdomen.

 

Some common changes that are addressed by this procedure include ptotic breasts and stubborn fat deposits around the abdomen. Post-pregnancy surgery may help address physical changes such as changes in breast shape and stubborn abdominal fat that have not responded to exercise or diet. 

 

Risks & Complications

Breast: Infection, bleeding / hematoma, wound breakdown / healing issues, hypertrophic / keloid scars, swelling, bruising, seroma, pain, breast / nipple asymmetry, scar asymmetry, nipple paresthesia, partial or complete nipple loss, fat necrosis / breast lump, implant exposure, implant malposition, implant rupture, capsular contracture, breast implant illness, breast implant associated lymphoma, revision surgery, clot in legs and lungs. 

Abdomen:

Infection, bleeding / hematoma, wound breakdown / healing issues, hypertrophic / keloid scars, swelling, bruising, seroma, pain, scar asymmetry, scar migration, umbilicus malposition or shape asymmetry, abdominal wall paresthesia, fat necrosis (abdominal wall lumps), revision surgery, clots in legs & lungs.

 

Your first step in exploring post-pregnancy surgery is to schedule a consultation with Dr Khan at West Coast Plastic Surgery. As of July 1st, 2023, all patients are required to have a referral from a GP. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for your initial consultation (special conditions apply). You can contact us by phone at 08 6230 3041 or fax at 08 6230 3042 for post-pregnancy surgery inquiries.

Alternatively, email admin@westcoastplasticsurgery.com.au. A member of our team will contact you to book your appointment and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.

Recovery time can vary based on the number of procedures, existing medical conditions, and individual support during recovery. Many patients can go home the following day, provided they are comfortable and able to move around, though some may need a longer stay depending on their specific recovery.

You may be advised to wear a compression garment for the abdomen and a supportive bra for the breasts to assist with the healing process. You may experience some discomfort, especially if your abdominal muscles have been tightened. Pain management options will be provided based on your needs.

You may be recommended to sleep on your back or side during recovery. Some patients find sleeping in a recliner more comfortable, but this varies from person to person.

Depending on your recovery, light activities may be resumed within a few weeks, with guidance from your surgeon. Strenuous activities such as lifting, running, or heavy exercise should generally be avoided for six weeks, though this timeline may vary based on individual recovery.

 

Given the many variables at play, the cost of post-pregnancy surgery can vary depending on individual needs and the procedures involved.
It’s important to schedule a consultation to understand the full scope of the procedures and associated costs. Dr Qadir Khan can provide a thorough consultation where he will evaluate your needs and give a clear breakdown of the costs involved, ensuring transparency and helping you plan your surgery effectively.

For those considering post-pregnancy surgery, understanding the cost structure and seeking a detailed consultation are crucial steps.
Being well-informed about the financial aspects of your treatment will allow you to make an informed decision.

Benefits of Post Pregancy Surgery

The journey of motherhood, while deeply fulfilling, often brings about significant changes to a woman’s body. From the altered shape of breasts due to pregnancy and breastfeeding, to the stubborn abdominal protrusion that persists despite dedicated exercise, the post-pregnancy physique may be a potential source of distress. Post-pregnancy surgery is one option to address changes to the body after childbirth, along with other non-surgical treatments.

 

A post-pregnancy breast lift or augmentation or a combination of both, augmentation-mastopexy aims to increase the volume and change the shape of the breasts. Many women experience ptosis, asymmetry, or a loss of fullness post-childbirth. By integrating breast surgery like breast augmentation or lifts, one can increase breast volume and change the breast shape 

 

Meanwhile, the stretching of abdominal muscles during pregnancy can be challenging to address through conventional means. An abdominoplasty is one potential solution to this issue. It effectively tightens muscles, removes excess skin, and results in a flatter abdomen.

Localised fat deposits post-pregnancy are another potential concern that patients may have. These areas, resistant to dietary changes and exercise, can be effectively contoured using liposuction. This is often utilised as a complimentary procedure to the other aspects of a post-pregnancy surgery.

 

After a thorough consult, Dr Khan will discuss your examination findings, any necessary investigations and your realistic aesthetic goals. This helps devise a management plan which best addresses your concerns. You will have ample opportunity to discuss risks, complications, expected outcomes and recovery of the procedures that you might be suitable for.

Post Pregnancy Surgery Recovery Time

Recovery from a post-pregnancy surgery is an essential factor that many women in Perth consider when deciding on the post-pregnancy procedure that will suit them. While it may seem like an appealing option for many, it’s crucial to ensure an understanding of the procedure(s), risks & complications, recovery and expected outcomes. Breast Augmentation Recovery Time: Typically, patients can return to light activities within a week after the procedure. However, any strenuous activities or heavy lifting should be avoided for at least six weeks. The full settling of the breast implants and complete recovery might take a few months. Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Recovery Time: Similar to breast augmentation, most patients can resume light activities within a week. However, you’ll need to avoid vigorous exercises for about six weeks. The scars from a breast lift will fade over time, often becoming less noticeable several months post-operation. Abdominoplasty Recovery Time: Recovery from an abdominoplasty requires more time. While light activities can be resumed within two weeks, heavy lifting and strenuous exercises should be avoided for at least six to eight weeks. The full recovery and the settling of scars might take several months. It’s vital to note that if you opt for a combination of procedures for your post-pregnancy surgery, the recovery time can be influenced. For instance, if you choose to have both a breast augmentation lift and a abdominoplasty procedure, you might find that your overall recovery time is longer than if you had just one procedure. Moreover, individual factors such as a person’s general health, age, and body’s healing capability can also impact the recovery duration. It’s always recommended to follow your surgeon’s post-operative acre guidelines diligently to reduce the risk of post surgery complications. For the residents of Perth considering a post-pregnancy surgery, understanding the expected recovery timelines can help in planning time off work, arranging for help around the house, and setting realistic expectations for the post-operative period.

FAQs About Post Pregnancy Surgery in Perth

Post-pregnancy surgery typically does not directly affect your menstrual cycle. The procedures are primarily aimed at addressing physical changes that may occur after pregnancy and do not interfere with the reproductive system. However, stress, anaesthesia, or medications related to surgery may cause temporary disruptions or irregularities in some women’s cycles. These effects typically resolve on their own.

The ideal time for post-pregnancy surgery depends on individual circumstances. Generally, it’s recommended to wait until you’ve completed your family, as subsequent pregnancies may affect the results of the surgery. It’s also advised to wait 6-12 months after childbirth or once breastfeeding is finished, to allow your body to return to its baseline before considering surgery.

Yes, but it’s important to follow specific recovery guidelines. Light activities, such as walking, may be resumed within a few weeks, but this will depend on your individual recovery. More strenuous exercises, especially those targeting the operated areas, should be avoided for at least 6-8 weeks, or as advised by your surgeon. Always consult with Dr Khan before resuming your regular fitness routine to ensure safety and optimal healing.

In Australia, Medicare may cover some procedures if they are deemed medically necessary. Post-pregnancy surgeries may be classified as cosmetic, but certain procedures with a medical indication, such as abdominoplasty under specific conditions, might be covered. It’s important to check with Medicare and your private health insurer to clarify what is included in your coverage.

There is no specific age limit for post-pregnancy surgery, but suitability is determined based on your overall health, wellness, and individual goals. Whether you’re in your 30s or 50s, if you’re in good health and have realistic expectations, your surgeon will assess whether the procedure is appropriate for you.

There is no specific age that is best for post-pregnancy surgery. The decision is highly individual, and women may choose to undergo the procedure at different stages of life based on personal and health factors. It’s important to be at a stable point in your life, have completed your family if that’s your choice, and be in good health.