Postpartum Abdominoplasty / Body

RestorationPostpartum Abdominoplasty

OverviewPostpartum abdominoplasty is a procedure that simultaneously corrects stretched abdominal skin, separated rectus muscles, and residual fat. Considering the condition of your abdomen and any existing C-section scar, the extent of incision and dissection is determined to refine the contour of the waist and abdomen.

Smoothing the skin, bringing the muscles together, and leaving no unnecessary scars.

Postpartum Abdominoplasty - Amorata Plastic Surgery
AMORATA PLASTIC SURGERY
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Stretched skin, separated muscles, and existing scars. Restoring the changes brought by childbirth, all at once.

Postpartum abdominoplasty resolves stretched lower abdominal skin, separated rectus muscles, and lingering fat in a single procedure. By limiting the dissection plane to the lower abdomen, we preserve upper abdominal blood flow, effectively reducing scarring and recovery burden. For those with a C-section scar, the incision is made along the preexisting line so as not to add any new scars.

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Recommended For

Recommended For

Those whose lower abdomen sags noticeably more than the upper abdomen after childbirth

Those who wish to restore their slim waistline lost after childbirth

Those with severe sagging skin folds and stretch marks on the abdomen

Those who already have a C-section scar and do not want an additional scar

Those who wish to remove raised, hypertrophic scar tissue at the C-section site

Those who have struggled with an abdomen that does not improve through exercise and diet

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Amorata's Principles

Utilizing Pre-existing Scars

Utilizing Pre-existing Scars

For patients with a C-section scar, the incision is planned along that existing line. As stretched skin and the previous scar tissue are excised together, scar revision is accomplished in a single procedure without the need for additional surgery.

Three Layers, Addressed in One Surgery

Three Layers, Addressed in One Surgery

The primary reason the abdomen protrudes forward after childbirth is diastasis recti—the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (the vertical "ab" muscles). However, the issue rarely involves the muscles alone. We bring the separated muscles back together, reduce remaining fat, and excise stretched excess skin. All three layers are corrected simultaneously in one surgery.

The Suture Technique Determines the Scar

The Suture Technique Determines the Scar

We do not close the incision all at once. By meticulously suturing layer by layer from the deepest tissue upward, internal tension is absorbed deep within, while barbed sutures evenly distribute any remaining strain along the skin layer. Minimizing surface tension significantly lowers the risk of the scar widening or becoming hypertrophic.

Han Seung-beom

Doctor's Comment

"There comes a moment when childbirth is behind you,
and you realize it is time to take care of yourself."

The rectus abdominis muscles separated by pregnancy are brought back to the center, and excess accumulated fat is removed through liposuction. The natural curves of the waist and abdomen are restored. By excising stretched skin, lower abdominal wrinkles and stretch marks are removed as much as possible, with the incision placed within the line of your existing C-section scar. Scar revision for keloids and hypertrophic scars is an added benefit.

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Recovery Guide

The recovery process varies for each individual. Instructions may be adjusted based on your progress.

Garments

Wear a compression garment for 6 weeks

Showering

Permitted starting from post-op day 7

Stitch Removal

Closed with barbed sutures; no separate stitch removal required

Sleeping Position

Sleep in a slightly flexed (bent-waist) position for the first 1 to 2 weeks

Medication

Take prescribed medications as directed

Exercise

Exercises engaging the abdominal core may be resumed gradually after 6 weeks

Warning Signs

Contact our emergency number immediately in case of high fever, severe swelling, or sudden acute pain

Alcohol & Smoking

No alcohol for 2 weeks; no smoking for 2 months

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1

Where will the scar be located, and how visible will it be?

The scar is positioned low just above the pubic bone, concealed by underwear and swimwear. If you have a C-section scar, the incision follows that existing line so that no new scar is added. During closure, tension is evenly distributed to reduce the risk of the scar widening or thickening. How the scar fades over time varies depending on individual skin characteristics.
Q.2

Is it very painful? What type of anesthesia is used?

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. For a few days after surgery, you may experience a pulling sensation and pain in the area where the rectus muscles were repaired, which is typically well managed with prescribed pain medication. Discomfort is generally most noticeable during the first week and subsides quickly thereafter, though individual experiences may vary.
Q.3

Is muscle repair (diastasis recti repair) necessary? Can it be corrected with exercise?

When the rectus abdominis muscles have separated (diastasis recti), exercise alone cannot bring them back together. Because the fascia encasing the muscles has been stretched, core exercises only strengthen the muscle tissue without closing the gap. Surgically repairing the separated rectus muscles is often essential to resolve a protruding abdomen and restore the waistline. The presence and degree of separation are evaluated during your consultation.
Q.4

How long is the recovery period? When can I return to work?

Patients with desk jobs typically return to work within 1 to 2 weeks. Major swelling subsides over 3 to 4 weeks, and exercises that engage the abdominal core can be resumed gradually after 4 to 6 weeks. Because a mini abdominoplasty limits dissection to the lower abdomen, it generally involves less recovery burden than a full tummy tuck; however, recovery speed varies by individual.
Q.5

When is the best time to undergo the procedure if I plan to have more children?

If you plan on having more children, we recommend postponing surgery until after your final childbirth. Becoming pregnant again can separate the repaired muscles and stretch the skin once more, potentially reversing surgical results. The ideal time for surgery is after your body has recovered and your weight has stabilized, typically evaluated during consultation at 6 months or more postpartum.
Q.6

What is the difference between a mini abdominoplasty and a full abdominoplasty?

The primary differences lie in the extent of dissection and the repositioning of the navel. A mini abdominoplasty limits dissection to the lower abdomen and preserves the belly button position, resulting in a shorter scar and an easier recovery. If skin laxity extends to the upper abdomen or there is significant excess tissue to resect, a full abdominoplasty with navel repositioning may be more appropriate. The best option is determined together during your consultation based on your abdominal anatomy.

Amorata Plastic Surgery Location

3F, Square Cube, 28 Seocho-daero 78-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul

3F, Square Cube, 28 Seocho-daero 78-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

HOURS

Mon – Fri
10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Amorata Plastic Surgery Director Han Seung-beom Business Reg. No. 722-14-02537 Tel 02-522-0955