Farah Khan reveals it took her 7 years to lose weight after delivering triplets, underwent ‘tummy tuck surgery’: ‘It was horrible’

Stressing that postpartum recovery is different for every woman, Dr Mansi Sharma, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi, Pune, said muscle separation, loose skin, and weight challenges are very common after childbirth and improve gradually with time, exercise, lifestyle changes, and physiotherapy. “Weight loss is important after pregnancy to get back in shape. Many pregnant women struggle to lose weight. The skin often stretches to accommodate the growing baby and, in some cases, it doesn’t return to its original firmness. The abdominal muscles may also become loose or separated, a condition known as diastasis recti, and it can also cause lower belly bulge, back pain, and poor posture,” explained Dr Sharma.

Asserting that a tummy tuck is not a weight-loss surgery, Dr Sharma said that it works best for women who are close to their ideal weight but struggling with loose skin and muscle weakness.

Dr Vashisht Dikshit, consultant, plastic and cosmetic surgery, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, said a tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess skin and tightens loose muscles in the abdomen. Many women choose this surgery after pregnancy because the skin and muscles of the stomach often get stretched beyond a point where exercise or diet cannot bring them back to shape. A tummy tuck helps flatten the stomach, remove saggy skin, and improve the overall contour of the waist.

“One of the main benefits is that it tightens the abdominal muscles, which may become separated during pregnancy.

Here’s what you should consider about this surgery (Photo: Freepik)

This separation can cause a lower belly bulge, back pain, and poor posture. After a tummy tuck, many women feel stronger, more confident, and more comfortable in their clothes. It also removes stubborn fat and stretch-mark–covered skin from the lower abdomen, giving a smoother and firmer look,” expressed Dr Dikshit.

A good recovery plan, rest, and avoiding heavy lifting for a few weeks are essential, said Dr Sharma. “At this stage, guidance from a gynaecologist becomes extremely valuable. They can help new mothers understand what’s normal, how long the recovery process may take, and what steps can support gradual strengthening, healing, and confidence-building,” said Dr Sharma.

When done by a qualified surgeon, a tummy tuck offers “long-lasting and natural-looking results,” said Dr Sharma.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.