Once you’ve set your mind on mommy makeover surgery, chances are you’re already looking forward to your results.
Do you find yourself dreaming of the new clothes you’ll buy? Or the places you’ll go on vacation once you have your “new” body?
While all of these goals are certainly great motivation as you approach surgery, it’s also important to be realistic about the results of a mommy makeover. Specifically, it’s important to remember that the results of a mommy makeover will take time. In fact, the best mommy makeover outcomes take time.
What Is a Mommy Makeover?
A personalized mommy makeover is a comprehensive aesthetic plastic surgery designed to address the physical changes that occur on a woman’s body after she’s had children. Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can all take their toll on the breasts, stomach, vaginal area, and, well … everywhere!
Furthermore, many women find they are especially frustrated with their efforts to improve their physique following childbirth. Diet and exercise resistant fat can be nearly impossible to get rid of, and things like drooping breasts and loose skin on the abdomen can only be fixed with surgery.
Most mommy makeovers include some combination of breast lift, breast augmentation or breast implants, tummy tuck, and liposuction. Sometimes, other cosmetic procedures are included. Ultimately, a mommy makeover procedure can restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy body and give her back her confidence.
How Long Is Mommy Makeover Recovery?
While every patient’s experience is unique, most women can expect to take about one to three weeks off from work and normal activities to focus on their recovery. It’s essential that you follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.
Ultimately, your recovery will vary depending on the specific procedures performed and individual healing factors. A young plastic surgery patient who’s undergoing breast surgery only may heal faster than an older patient who’s undergoing multiple procedures, including breast surgery, a tummy tuck, and liposuction.
Common Recovery Symptoms After Mommy Makeover Surgery
Following mommy makeover procedures, it is completely normal to experience the following symptoms:
- Pain and discomfort
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Limited mobility
- Fatigue
- Drainage
Mommy Makeover Timeline
Understanding the timeline of mommy makeover recovery can help you manage your expectations and provide insight into what you can expect during the healing process.
Immediately After Surgery
Immediately following mommy makeover surgery, you will notice some initial results. However, these results may be obscured by swelling, bruising, and surgical dressings. At this time, swelling, bruising, pain, and fatigue will set in as well.
Week 1
During the first week of recovery, swelling and bruising will likely peak before gradually reducing. You’ll need to take it easy and avoid strenuous activities to allow your body to heal correctly and safely. Your surgeon will have follow-up appointments set up to monitor your progress and remove any surgical drains or stitches.
Weeks 2-4
By weeks two to four, most of the initial swelling and bruising will be diminished, revealing more noticeable results.
You may begin to feel more comfortable participating in light activities (if okay with your plastic surgeon). And most patients will be back at work as well. At the same time, remember to continue avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
Weeks 5-8
During weeks five to eight of recovery, you’ll continue to see improvements in your body contours as swelling continues to decrease. Many patients will be able to gradually resume more strenuous activities and exercise routines under their surgeon’s guidance.
Months 2-6 and Beyond
In the months following mommy makeover surgery, your results will continue to improve as swelling resolves completely. By this time, you should be enjoying the full benefits of your mommy makeover, feeling more confident and comfortable in your appearance. Still, swelling may continue for up to one year.
How to Prepare for Mommy Makeover Recovery
Preparing for mommy makeover recovery is essential for ensuring a smooth and successful healing process. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Follow your surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, which may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Arrange for help at home if possible. This is most important for the initial days of recovery, especially if you have young children and/or pets to care for.
- Stock up on comfortable clothing. This means loose-fitting tops that zip or button open (no over-the-head pieces) and supportive bras to wear during your recovery period.
- Prepare your recovery space with extra pillows, blankets, entertainment, and things like tissues and lip balm to keep you comfortable and occupied while you rest.
Self-Care for Moms Is Important
One of the things a mommy makeover procedure does is reinforce your commitment to yourself. Self-care as a woman is always important, but once you have a child, it gets increasingly harder to put yourself first when you need it most.
If you’re unhappy with your body and would love to regain your pre pregnancy appearance, a mommy makeover could be your answer. Your next step is to ask yourself if you’re worth it … and the answer should be a resounding yes.
FAQ: Mommy Makeovers
Can a mommy makeover remove excess skin on the stomach?
Yes. Often, one of the surgical procedures included in a mommy makeover is a tummy tuck. This surgical procedure involves excising loose skin on the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles.
Is it worth getting a mommy makeover?
A mommy makeover is a plastic surgery that can get rid of stubborn fat pockets, excess skin, drooping breasts, and other common concerns following childbirth. Most of these issues must be treated with surgery for effective results. The majority of patients who undergo this surgery say it was well worth the cost and recovery time.
How much does a mommy makeover cost?
Mommy makeover cost varies widely depending on the plastic surgeons you work with, what procedures you undergo, and where you get surgery geographically. Mommy makeover patients should book a consultation to get a cost estimate for their mommy makeover journey.
Contact Us Today to Schedule a Consultation
If you’re planning on a mommy makeover amazing results can be in your future. But it all starts with booking your initial consultation appointment to discuss the body contouring procedures that would benefit you.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Raja Mohan is experienced with mommy makeover surgery and performs this procedure for clients at his Dallas practice. Contact us today to set up your consultation for mommy makeover surgery with Dr. Mohan. We look forward to working with you!