Pregnancy is a defining experience for one’s body and for one’s emotions. There is always a focus on the incoming journey of parenthood, and plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery is one of the questions even expectant mothers consider. There are many misinformation regarding plastic surgery during pregnancy, but knowing the risks and facts that come with it is important to ensure proper decisions are taken. These are the facts.
Myth 1: Going Under the Knife for A Plastic Surgeons While Pregnant Is Okay
There is a belief that going under the knife for minor cosmetic enhancements while expecting is harmless. As much as I want to disagree, I cannot because elective surgery in any form during pregnancy can pose severe risks to the woman and her unborn child.
Reality:
• There is excessive fluid retention, shock and mobilization impairment which puts the fetus and the mother at risk making pregnancy one of the reasons plastic surgery is not recommended during.
Myth 2: Non Invasive Procedure Are Completely Safe
Even Botox or dermal fillers appear to be innocent while expecting, there is a risk of what could the unborn child be suffering while their mother is using it and the damage it could do to the unborn.
Reality:
• FDA has Not Approved The Use of Many Cosmetic Injectables During Pregnancy
• During pregnancy, the skin tends to respond to cosmetic treatments differently than it usually does because of the hormonal imbalance.
Risks of undergoing plastic surgery while pregnant
Anesthesia starts with a region-specific type of anesthesia followed by administering a general anesthesia to the individual: The anesthesia is said to affect a number of things including blood circulation, blood pressure or the level of oxygen in the blood which can turn into a complication for the fetus. Blood Clotting pregnancy alone has the possibility of developing blood clots. However, combining it with surgical procedures increases this risk even further. Impaired healing An increased blood volume along with other changes due to a hormonal shift can add a longer time for a wound to properly heal, increasing the risk of infection. Stress on the body The body of a pregnant woman faces a lot of changes and has to work overtime to support the fetus, stress through surgery would amplify the strain on the individual.
When is it acceptable to undergo surgery?
It is recommended to avoid elective surgical procedures to be performed during pregnancy, other types of surgeries which are considered life threatening should only be performed when absolutely necessary; in those cases a specialized multi disciplinary team operates to ensure the safety of both baby and the parent. Postpartum Procedures Due to different reasons, people who are interested in opting for a plastic surgery should consider waiting for a few months after the childbirth, this would speed up the recovery and add a layer of safety by eliminating most of the risk.
Most popular post pregnancy surgery includes:
• Tummy Tuck: Removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles which are loosened after giving birth
• Breast lift: Enhances or partially augments the breast, restoring the fullness and firmness which was lost during pregnancy.
• Liposuction: It is used to get rid of the fat that refuses to shed even after stringent exercise or dieting.
Safe Soothing Techniques During Pregnancy
Setting aside surgery options, there are soothing techniques and self care routines one can adopt when pregnant:
• Using Products: Knowing which product is safe to use during pregnancy is essential, as one can replace pre-pregnancy creams with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C in order to hydrate and brighten the skin.
• Massages during pregnancy: These can help to relieve stress and enhance circulation.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Monitoring and improving one’s diet, fluid intake and moderate exercise can help in one’s well-being.
Let’s Talk about that Next Step
If you intend to undergo determinate plastic surgery, consulting with board-certified surgeons either before or after the pregnancy is a good step to creating a plan that suits your needs. In most cases, surgeons advise patients to wait at least six months post-delivery after allowing the body time to adjust physiologically.
Considering the associated risks, undergoing any plastic surgery while pregnant is not the best idea. However, once the woman gives birth and rests, it’s possible for her to achieve the wanted look with enough planning and proper guidance. Along with seeking expert help, it’s possible to emphasize safe treatments, which is best for one’s health and target results.