Tummy tuck needs to wait!
Abdominoplasty should NEVER be performed at the same time as a C-section. Remember that your tissues get very swollen and distorted over a 40 week pregnancy. It usually take takes about the same amount of time for them to return to normal.
Be patient; your tummy tuck result will be better the longer out from delivery that you are. The only rare acception to this dictum, would be in a severly obese patient with a very large pannus.
Rarely, rarely, rarely. in a situation like this, an obstetrician would request removal of a large over hanging abdominal pannus (panniculectomy) in order to make room for and facilitate the C-section delivery.
This is indeed an unusual circumstance; and remember that a panniculectomy and abdominoplasty are very different operations, with very different goals. (Kevin Brenner, MD, FACS, Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon)
Tummy Tuck after c-section
Although you could technically have a tummy tuck right after a c-section, you should not. Your body has just undergone tremendous changes from your pregnancy and the additional stress and risks associated with another major procedure just are not worth it. Also, you just had a baby that you need to enjoy! (Randy J. Buckspan, MD, Austin Plastic Surgeon)
Do NOT have a tummy tuck at the same time as a C section!
It is not a good idea to receive a C section with tummy tuck. From the pregnancy, your body is undergoing significant hormonal and physiological changes. Your focus needs to be on the successful pregnancy and your beautiful new baby. Take care of yourself, lose as much weight as possible, and wait at least six months after your C-section before seeing a plastic surgeon and considering tummy tuck. (Pat Pazmino, MD, Miami Plastic Surgeon)
Tummy Tuck with C-Section together
Doing a C section with tummy tuck is a rather short-sighted and potentially dangerous idea for many reasons. The patient at the time of C-section is maximally swollen and bloated as are her tissues. As a result, LESS tissues would be removed due to swelling with later relapse and sagging.
The blood vessels are maximally dilated with potential large blood losses. The amniotic fluid with any of its contents will contaminate the much larger area of the Tummy Tuck surgery leading to potentially serious post-operative complications. The mother must be able to move bond with the baby immediately after birth (you no doubt have seen how the baby is often placed on the mother’s chest after birth or C-section to begin this bonding) – this would be delayed if a tummy tuck was done.
Finally, should any complication occur with the Tummy Tuck with further medical care (such as certain antibiotics be required which may not be used in nursing women) the relation would be shattered.
I am SURE there are other additional reasons NOT to do it but you should get the point. (Peter A. Aldea, MD, Memphis Plastic Surgeon)