Will getting a tummy tuck fix my hernia after birth? Meet our client Kacey from NZ
Giving birth is a wonderful gift, but many women feel something isn't quite right after delivery. Many women experience abdominal separation and severe hernias that cannot be fixed with physical therapy and pelvic floor exercises alone. This leaves many feeling frustrated and desperate, unsure of what to do next. Reverting to pre-pregnancy bodies can pose a challenge for many women, especially in the case of hernias or diastasis recti. Surgical intervention is often needed to recover fully for those suffering from these conditions.
In this article, we will examine how post-pregnancy hernias are caused and how they can be repaired during a Tummy tuck by a specialist reconstructive and plastic surgeon at Azurite.
What are hernias?
Before understanding how pregnant women can develop hernias, it's helpful to know a bit about hernias themselves. Many might be surprised to learn that hernias are a common issue for women post-pregnancy. Often, when people think of hernias, they picture a scrotal hernia, which only affects men.
However, childbirth involves significantly more exertion than any workout than many could imagine. Any activity that strains the groin and abdominal muscles can cause a hernia, and few things are more strenuous than giving birth. For this reason, many specialist general surgeons perform hernia repair surgery alongside abdominoplasties for new mothers.
In simple terms, a hernia occurs when the intestines or internal organs push through the abdominal wall's muscles and connective tissue. The constant pressure on the inner abdominal wall during pregnancy, combined with the physical strain of labor, makes it unsurprising that some women develop hernias afterward.
A 2020 study titled “How to Treat Hernias in Pregnant Women?” published in the medical journal Cureus found that about 20 million hernia operations are performed globally each year. It also estimated the frequency rates of umbilical hernias at 0.08% and groin hernias at 0.12% among pregnant women.
While these percentages might seem small, hernias can significantly impact the quality of life for affected women. The worst part about hernias is that they do not heal on their own. Medical intervention, often surgical, is typically required to treat them.
Why Consider Abdominoplasty?
Correcting Abdominal Separation: Post-pregnancy, many women experience diastasis recti, where the abdominal muscles separate. Abdominoplasty can bring these muscles back together.
Hernia Repair: Severe hernias, which are common post-pregnancy, may not respond to non-surgical methods. A tummy tuck can effectively address this.
Improving Physical Appearance: Beyond functional improvements, a tummy tuck enhances the abdominal area's appearance, helping women regain confidence.
Patients with hernias can have them removed while getting a tummy tuck. The abdominoplasty procedure gives the surgeon access to the patient’s abdominal wall. While restructuring and suturing the abdominal muscles, the surgeon can also perform a herniorraphy to remove the abdominal hernia. Epigastric, inguinal, and umbilical hernias, which appear in the same region operated on during an abdominoplasty, can be treated during this procedure.
Patients undergoing a tummy tuck can have their hernias addressed at the same time. The abdominoplasty procedure allows the surgeon to access the abdominal wall, providing an opportunity to repair abdominal hernias while reshaping and suturing the muscles. This can include addressing epigastric, inguinal, and umbilical hernias, all within the same procedure.
For women post-pregnancy, abdominoplasty offers a solution to address both cosmetic concerns and medical issues. By consulting with a specialist, it's possible to repair post-pregnancy hernias and torn abdominal muscles through abdominoplasty, providing relief and restoration.Women who have just given birth are sometimes concerned about the changes pregnancy brings to their bodies. An abdominoplasty surgery addresses their cosmetic concerns and provides medical benefits. Torn abdominal muscles and hernias need not trouble women after pregnancy. After careful consultation with a Specialist surgeon, it’s possible to repair post-pregnancy hernias with an abdominoplasty.
Client Success Story: Kacey
One of our clients, Kacey, came to us after struggling with abdominal separation and a hernia that physical therapy couldn't fix. Post-procedure, she experienced not only physical relief but also a boost in confidence and overall well-being.
To get Kacey’s look she had the following procedures done by our board certified chief surgeon:
Extended abdominoplasty
Liposuction
Hernia repair
Implants and breast lift
Pricing for this package in 2024 starts from $18,500 AUD based on today’s exchange rate and includes accommodation, airport and hospital transfers, a recovery team to assist you daily back at the hotel and all surgical fees.
The Path to a New You
If you're experiencing similar post-pregnancy issues, consider an abdominoplasty at Azurite. Our team is here to guide you through the process, ensuring a safe and effective transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between a tummy tuck and abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck and abdominoplasty are essentially the same procedure. Both terms refer to the surgical process of removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles.
2. Who is a good candidate for abdominoplasty?
Good candidates are individuals in good health who have realistic expectations and are bothered by the appearance of their abdomen. It’s especially beneficial for women who have experienced significant changes post-pregnancy.
3. How long is the recovery period after a tummy tuck?
Recovery times can vary, but generally, patients can expect to return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
4. Are there any risks associated with abdominoplasty?
As with any surgery, there are risks including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. However, when performed by a qualified surgeon, the risks are minimized.
5. Will there be visible scars after the procedure?
There will be scars, but a skilled surgeon will place them in locations that can be easily concealed by underwear or swimsuits. Over time, scars will fade and become less noticeable.
6. Can abdominoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes, abdominoplasty is often combined with other procedures such as liposuction or breast surgery for a more comprehensive body contouring result.
Conclusion
An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, can be a life-changing procedure for women dealing with post-pregnancy abdominal issues. With the right surgeon and approach, you can achieve both functional and aesthetic improvements. Contact Azurite today to learn more about how we can help you regain your pre-pregnancy body.