Can I Have a Second Tummy Tuck?

If you’re thinking about a second tummy tuck because you’re wanting another baby or are unhappy with your results, here’s what you need to know.

December 14, 2021

3 min read

Image

Many women are improving their appearances with a tummy tuck procedure. These surgeries offer a way for women to look and feel their best, especially after going through multiple pregnancies. 

However, if you’ve already had one tummy tuck, you might find yourself wondering if it’s possible to have a second tummy tuck. That’s especially true if you’ve recently had another pregnancy or undergone weight gain

To help you out, we break down everything you need to know about having a second tummy tuck procedure. We’re ready to look at what you need to know about getting 

Can You Have a Second Tummy Tuck?

Let’s start with the basics – and look at whether or not it’s actually possible to have a second tummy tuck. The short answer is, yes. It’s definitely possible to get a second tummy tuck. We do it all the time!

In fact, there is (almost) no limit to the number of tummy tucks that you can get, providing that you are a good candidate for the procedure. Your surgeon will evaluate you to make sure that you’re a good candidate for a second procedure before proceeding with the treatment. 

When you choose to get a second tummy tuck, the procedure is called a tummy tuck revision. That’s because this surgery is designed to revise or enhance the work done in a previous surgery.

There are many reasons why someone might want a second tummy tuck or a mommy makeover. These reasons include:

  • High scars
  • Poorly located scarring
  • Odd lumps
  • Leftover fat bulges 
  • Poorly corrected stomach
  • Failure of muscle repair
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Aging
  • Pregnancy

Any of these reasons may be cause for a second tummy tuck pregnancy. And, most times, you’ll come out of your second surgery with a thinner and more firm abdomen. It’s a great way to boost your skin laxity, core strength, and abdominal contour.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Second Tummy Tuck?

If you’re unsure of whether you are a good candidate for a second tummy tuck, you should know that you’ll need to meet certain criteria. For one, you will have been dealing with one of the aforementioned issues with your original tummy tuck. 

Secondly, you’ll need to make sure that you meet some other criteria:

  • You need to be in healthy physical condition
  • You have excess fat and loose skin around the belly
  • You should have realistic cosmetic goals.
  • You do not smoke

Because a second tummy tuck surgery is harder for a surgeon to perform than the first procedure, it’s essential that you book a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon. Look for someone who has lots of experience (like us) and who regularly performs tummy tucks (also like us). 

You should also be aware that even if you are getting the procedure in order to limit visible scars from a first procedure, you will always be able to see some amount of scarring. It is harder to hide scarring when you complete a revisional procedure than it is in an original tummy tuck procedure. 

How Does a Second Tummy Tuck Work?

So, you’re ready to book your second tummy tuck. To prepare you for what’s to come, let’s take a look at how a second tummy tuck works and what you should expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Before Your Procedure

Before you are ready to go under the knife, you might need to go through some preoperative testing. Depending on your age and health status, your surgeon may require a blood test, an EKG, and even an X-ray.

On top of that, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications in the days or weeks leading up to your surgery. Typically, blood thinners should be stopped as should certain medications that could interfere with your anesthetic.

During Your Procedure

During your procedure, you’ll be put under general anesthesia. From there, the surgeon will open the original tummy tuck scar. Then the surgeon will tighten your abdominal muscles together using stitches. 

The surgeon will then trim excess skin. If you have excess fat deposition, the doctor can also use liposuction to remove the unwanted fat.

The doctor may use drains to prevent blood from collecting underneath the skin flaps.

After Your Procedure

Following your procedure, you’ll need to be extra cautious when moving around. You’ll need to rest up for several weeks. During this time, it’s important to get up and move around during the day. Typically, we recommend walking for 10 minutes every 2 hours.

What Are the Risks of a Second Tummy Tuck?

As with any surgery, there are a few risks posed by getting a second tummy tuck. A few complications that can arise when you get a second tummy tuck include:

  • Allergic reaction to anesthesia
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Injury to the surrounding structures
  • Wound infections
  • Wound breakdown
  • Blood clots in the legs

Before booking your second tummy tuck procedure, you should sit down for a consultation with your surgeon. This will help ensure that your procedure is as smooth as possible.

Book Your Tummy Tuck Procedure Today

As you can see, getting a second tummy tuck is not only possible but can be very beneficial. It’s a great way to clean up your original procedure or to get your figure back after a second pregnancy or major weight changes. 

If you’re ready to get a second tummy tuck procedure, we’re here to help. Give us a call and we’ll help you book an appointment for a tummy tuck revision.  

Filed under:

Body

Share this


Discover how plastic surgery can change your life

Schedule an appointment with our board certified plastic surgeons

Request a Consultation


Related Articles