How can I treat loose and saggy skin at my tummy after childbirth?

Doctor's Answers 2

The causes for sagging tummy after childbirth may be attributed to a combination of redundant skin and lax abdominal muscles that occur due to stretching during pregnancy. In many women, the paired rectus muscles which are normally fused in the midline become separated by a gap, giving rise to a bulge; we call this rectus divarication. Many mummies try to exercise to improve their abdominal muscle tone, but exercise alone often does not help the situation.

The treatment options for sagging tissues around the tummy after pregnancy may be divided to non-invasive and surgical.

Non-invasive options are reserved to when the sagging is mild and purely due to skin excess. These treatments deliver energy in the form of high intensity focused ultrasound (Ultherapy) or radiofrequency to the deeper layers of skin, resulting in a zone of thermal injury. As the body repairs itself, collagen is deposited and the skin tighten, the effects being seen from around six weeks. However, the results from these treatments are subtle and one's expectations should be realistic.

If the amount of redundancy is moderate to severe, or if the sagging is also due to weak muscle tone or rectus divarication, then tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is required. Through an incision that is concealed along the bikini line crease, redundant lower abdominal skin and fat is removed and the abdominal skin pulled taut; depending on the amount of redundancy, the umbilicus may need to be repositioned. This may be combined with liposuction to remove bulges of fat and to aid in re-draping the abdominal skin. At the same time, lax or divaricated abdominal muscles can be tightened with stitches. These dramatically gives rise to a toned and pleasing abdominal contour.

Loose and saggy skin around the tummy are extremely difficult to treat generally.

If there is lots of redundant skin overhanging in the abdomen then tummy tuck may be the solution but if the skin is more crumped with lines, then thermage CPT may be a possible treatment.

Either way, its always good to come in and have the doctor have a look and give you the appropriate advise as its very hard to tell what loose and saggy means to you.

Hope that helps. Thks.

Similar Questions

How effective is fractional Co2 laser vs Infini RF for acne scars?

Good questions! I agree with Dr Chua’s reply on the pros and cons of Fractional CO2 lasers versus Infini RF. In addition, I would like to address your question on the ideal length of time between subcision and Infini RF treatments. The ideal interval between treatments is 4-6 weeks. This is to allow for adequate skin recovery. Hope that this answers your questions!

Photo of Human

Answered By

Human

Is PRP injection available for acne scarring in Singapore?

PRP at the present moment is not available in Singapore. It does help with acne scarring though, and you might have to go to neighbouring countries to do the treatment (including Malaysia). Having said that, you can consider Rejuran/skin boosters/microneedling that can help in a similar fashion. Your 2nd question on which is better — it depends on the severity and type of scars. But usually Fractional laser is the backbone of laser therapy. So consult your doctor early to discuss the available options.

Photo of Dr Winston  Lee

Answered By

Dr Winston Lee

Aesthetic

Ask any health question for free

I’m not so sure about a procedure...

Ask Icon Ask a Question

Join Human

Sign up now for a free Human account to get answers from specialists in Singapore.

Sign Up

Get The Pill

Be healthier with our Bite-sized health news straight in your inbox