Will I Get Stretch Marks If I Get Pregnant?

For women who have gone through dramatic weight changes, it is normal to see hanging skin or stretched abdominal muscles that make the midsection look flabby. Tummy tuck procedures at Morales Plastic Surgery remove the extra skin and tighten the abs when traditional diet and exercise cannot address this area. Patients are thrilled with body contouring results that make them appear healthy and trim.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rolando Morales normally recommends patients wait until their family is complete before getting tummy tuck surgery. This is because pregnancy can undo your results and lead to other problems, such as stretch marks. You can learn more about the subject of stretch marks and pregnancy by reading below or scheduling an appointment at our clinic in Houston, TX.

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks can be found in individuals of all ages and skin colors. While stretch marks from pregnancy are not harmful, they can cause cosmetic issues. Some people avoid wearing bathing suits or other articles of clothing because they are embarrassed about their skin. It can be difficult to predict whether stretch marks on the abdomen are permanent or will fade over time.

Stretch marks are usually caused by significant weight fluctuations, such as women going through pregnancy and childbirth. Some medical conditions and prescription medications can also lead to discolored streaks across the skin. A qualified doctor can diagnose stretch marks with a simple health evaluation and review of your medical history.

Pregnancy and stretch marks

Women are more likely to gain stretch marks when gaining weight during pregnancy. While genetics does play a factor in if you get stretch marks, chances vary from person to person. It is important to speak with your primary care provider about how much weight you should maintain while pregnant. They will also be able to recommend simple solutions, such as over-the-counter topical creams, to prevent stretch marks from occurring in the first place.

Body contouring with tummy tuck surgery

Women who get stretch marks from pregnancy can turn to body contouring surgery for potential removal. A tummy tuck is designed to address small pockets of fat and hanging skin in the abdominal area. The underlying muscles are then tightened to achieve a smoother appearance. Patients can choose from several options to get the outcome they want. This includes a full tummy tuck or mini tuck, depending on the size of your problem areas.

Can a tummy tuck get rid of stretch marks?

So, can a tummy tuck get rid of stretch marks? The answer depends on several factors. If your stretch marks are located on the excess skin that needs to be removed, then yes. However, this procedure is not designed for stretch marks outside of that area. Some stretch marks may be moved, lowered, or partially removed from the body. During your consultation, Dr. Morales will let you know if we can address your stretch marks before moving forward.

Learn about stretch marks from pregnancy

As with all forms of body contouring surgery, the final results depend on your unique case. When you call Morales Plastic Surgery, we can discuss your goals while giving an overview of what to expect. We can also show you before and after photos to give you a better idea of your results. If you want to learn if a tummy tuck can remove stretch marks on your abdomen, contact Dr. Rolando Morales in Houston, TX. We can lead you through the process with expert care.