For those patients wishing to restore their body after pregnancy, there are surgical and non-surgical options available to help women improve their figure and abdominal strength. Post-pregnancy procedures do not follow a specific, standard formula. This is a highly customisable set of procedures that address the problems unique to each mother.
The aim of plastic surgery and non-surgical procedures after pregnancy is improvements in post-pregnancy changes to the body. We recognise that new mothers are time-poor, and shorter recovery periods are optimal. As such, we provide you with treatment plans and recommendations to assist you in getting back into your normal day-to-day activities as soon as possible.
Common surgical and non-surgical procedures post-pregnancy are those that treat areas like the face, breasts, and tummy:
***Please note, as of July 2022, the Australian Government has reinstated a Medicare Item number for abdominoplasty following pregnancy for patients with diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation). This new Medicare item number is 30175. Patients must meet several criteria to qualify.
What Surgeries Does Post-Pregnancy Reconstruction Consist Of?
Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck,” removes excess skin and fat, usually from the lower abdomen and repairs separated abdominal muscles. The surgery tightens the abdominal muscles resulting in improved contour and tone as well as strength and function of the abdomen. An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is best performed after you have completed having children and you are at your ideal, stable weight.
Meet your Surgeon
Dr Steve Merten
Meet your Surgeon
Dr Steve Merten, MBBS, FRACS
Registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon
AHPRA MED0001155669
Education and Training:
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery from Sydney University in 1991
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in 2001
- Fellowships in Aesthetic (Cosmetic) Surgery at the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery and Monash University
- Fellowship in Breast Reconstruction at the University of British Columbia, Canada
Breast Enlargement
Pregnancy and breastfeeding often lead to changes in the breast appearance, with loss of volume commonly experienced. This may result in breasts being “deflated” and smaller in size, with loose skin. Breast Implants can restore volume to your breasts.
There are many factors that go into personalising a breast augmentation procedure. Together with your surgeon, you will make choices regarding implant type, size and projection, as well as placement technique and incision location. We utilise Crisalix 3D simulation software to help you virtually “try on” different implants and visualise your results.
Breast Lift
Mastopexy, or breast lift, is ideal when you are content with the size of your breasts, and you wish to retain the same size while correcting loose skin and/or dropped nipple position following pregnancy. A mastopexy can modify breast shape and position by lifting and tightening the breast tissue and skin. This provides firmer breasts and higher-positioned nipples.
The primary component of breast lift surgery is the removal of excess skin and tightening the internal breast tissue. Redundant skin is excised around the nipple and in the lower breast, then the nipple is repositioned to a higher level on the breast. In some patients, “internal re-arrangement” of the breast tissue is performed to further improve breast shape and position.
Breast Reduction
With pregnancy and breastfeeding, the ligaments and overlying skin of the breasts stretch and elongate. They may not return to their pre-pregnancy state on their own, and they are not issues that can be addressed with diet and exercise. Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) reduces the size of the breasts and creates a more aesthetic shape.
The specialist plastic surgeons at Pure Aesthetics have many years of experience in performing breast reductions, and Dr Merten has trained over 50 local and international plastic surgeons in advanced breast reduction surgery techniques.
Augmentation Mastopexy
Augmentation mastopexy combines a breast lift with implants to increase the size of the breasts while also reducing loose skin and raising the position of the breast and nipples on the chest.
If there is minimal loose skin present, breast implants alone may be sufficient for filling the breasts. On the other hand, if the breasts are of an adequate size but the tissue has become lax, a mastopexy without implants may be more appropriate. The most appropriate surgery or combination will be discussed during your consultation.
Nipple Correction
Cosmetic nipple surgery can reduce overly large or long nipples, reposition nipples, correct inverted nipples or resize enlarged areolas. These procedures can be performed at the same time as any other breast procedures.
Please note: some nipple procedures interfere with the milk ducts, which can reduce the likelihood of being able to breastfeed after surgery. It is critical to take this under consideration as you weigh up whether it is right for you.
Liposuction
Liposuction removes stubborn areas of fat not responsive to diet and exercise. However, the procedure is intended to reduce isolated pockets of fat and is not recommended for weight loss. Ideal patients are those at their goal weight and fitness level. Liposuction can be combined with other cosmetic surgeries such as abdominoplasty.
Labiaplasty
Childbirth can alter the anatomy of a woman’s vulva. When this occurs, some women find that activities such as exercising, intercourse or wearing form-fitting clothing become difficult or unpleasant. If you are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of your labia or suffer from chronic irritation, labiaplasty may offer a solution.
The procedure typically includes removal of tissue from the labia minora or majora and/or reduction of the mons pubis through liposuction. It is also possible to augment the labia majora or mons pubis with fat grafting if they have lost volume.
What Non-Surgical Treatments Can Be Considered Post-Pregnancy Reconstruction?
Non-Surgical Facial Medical Treatments
For concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, non-surgical treatments can be used. Treatments can temporarily but effectively address facial ageing with little to no downtime.
What Should I Consider Before Undergoing a Post-Pregnancy Procedure?
During your consultation, your specialist plastic surgeon will determine whether you are a suitable candidate for abdominoplasty, breast or other surgery and explain what you need to consider before moving forward. It is important to note that the surgery is not meant for extreme weight loss, and you should be at your ideal weight before undergoing the procedure.
In addition, it is best for this surgery to be done when you have finished having children, as further pregnancy can compromise your results. To ensure your recovery goes smoothly, we require patients to refrain from smoking, as this can complicate the healing process.
What Does Post-Pregnancy Surgery Recovery Entail?
The recovery after a post-pregnancy surgery will vary based on the specifics of each case. Breast, abdominal and other procedures may be combined into a single surgery, if appropriate.
For most post-pregnancy procedures, patients will need to spend a few days in hospital, followed by adequate rest for the first week. You may begin to move and walk around according to what your surgeon advises. Make sure to have help taking care of young children during this initial period of your recovery. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks to allow yourself enough time to heal.
In general, most patients can expect:
- 1-2 weeks off driving
- 2-3 weeks off work
- 6 weeks wearing compression garments
- 6-8 weeks off heavy lifting and strenuous exercise
More personalised details will be provided to you during your consultation so you know what to expect. This will include post-operative care instructions for resting, wound care, medications, special garments, and when to return for follow-up visits.
What Are the Risks and Complications of Post-Pregnancy Reconstruction?
All surgical procedures involve risks and potential complications. The risks that apply to any operation include anaesthesia complications, excessive bleeding, post-operative pain, hematoma, numbness in the surgical area, fluid build-up, infection and poor wound healing. Our team will explain the risks and complications of post-pregnancy reconstruction in detail during your consultation as part of your informed consent process.
What Will My Scars Look Like After My Surgery?
As with any surgery, scars cannot be avoided with the post-pregnancy reconstruction surgery. While the location and size of each incision will be determined by the specific procedures performed, our plastic surgeons utilise advanced surgical techniques to ensure scars are minimal and are in areas that are easily concealed. More details about how to care for your incisions and promote healing will be explained to you prior to your surgery.
What Is the Typical Timeline to See Results?
Most patients require two to three weeks off work and at least six weeks off heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. You will resume regular activities gradually, as swelling reduces, discomfort diminishes and your incisions heal.
The preliminary results of your surgery will be apparent at the time of your first dressing change. Depending on the procedures chosen, you may notice improvements in your breast, abdominal and hip contours. However, bruising and swelling will still be present, so patience will be required before you can evaluate your final results.
Final results can typically be observed at the three-month post-operative mark. Scar healing is a longer process, and you may not see the final appearance of your scars for up to a year.
Post-Pregnancy Before & After Photos
How Much Does Post-Pregnancy Body Contouring Surgery Cost?
The cost of a post-pregnancy procedure will depend upon the combination of procedures being performed, the number of operations needed to complete these, and the extent of the surgical improvement desired. Once your plastic surgeon has tailored a treatment plan to address your concerns, our team can provide you with a detailed plan of the fees associated with your treatment plan.
If any of your procedures are covered by Medicare, you will be responsible for determining this and claiming a rebate from your insurance provider. Our team would be happy to assist in any way we can should you have any questions or concerns regarding the cost of your post-pregnancy reconstruction.
Why Choose Pure Aesthetics?
At Pure Aesthetics, we recognise the decision to pursue plastic surgery and the choice of a surgeon are significant undertakings. We consider it a privilege to assist our patients with their plastic surgery. Our mission is to provide comprehensive, compassionate and safe care in an attentive and comfortable atmosphere.
Pure Aesthetics prioritises patient education so you feel empowered to make the best choices for your care. Our plastic surgeons, cosmetic physicians and paramedical staff spend a great deal of time getting to know you and answering your questions, so we can best understand what you are seeking from your treatment. This allows us to create a customised surgical plan tailored to your individual needs and desired outcomes.
Every member of our team strives to stay at the forefront of innovation so we may implement state-of-the-art products, techniques and technologies. We pride ourselves on providing the highest level of service and care for your plastic and cosmetic surgery.
