What is a Mommy Makeover, anyway?
In short, a mommy makeover is really whatever you want/need it to be. It typically comprises a combination of procedures aimed at reversal of the effects of pregnancy on the body. While it is not the technical name of the surgery, the term ‘mommy makeover’ has become very popular because the main goal is regaining the pre-pregnancy figure. As such, mommy makeover typically includes procedures to address both abdomen and breast contours, but can also include other problem areas. Common targets for surgical improvement are tightening of excess abdominal skin, tightening of the underlying muscular and connective tissue abdominal wall, improvement of breast droop and/or volume/deflation, and improvement of localized fat collections of the abdomen (especially lower abdomen, ‘mommy pouch’), love handles (flanks), inner and/or outer thighs, along the bra line, under the chin, or arms.
What procedures make up mommy makeover?
As described above, the mommy makeover is usually a combination of procedures, which most commonly (but does not have to…) include an abdominal and breast procedure, and may include additional problem areas.
| Abdomen |
| Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) Mini-tummy tuck Liposuction alone |
| Breasts |
| Augmentation Mastopexy (breast lift) Combination Augmentation/mastopexy Breast reduction |
| Other |
| Liposuction abdomen and/or flanks Liposuction bra line Submental liposuction Liposuction arms Liposuction inner/outer thighs Brazilian butt lift Labiaplasty Nonsurgical: i.e., skin care or chemical peel |
SPECIALIST CARE YOU CAN TRUST
You can trust the entire staff to help make your visit as comfortable and safe as possible!
What is the recovery for mommy makeover?
Of course, the recovery depends on which procedures are performed, and also may vary according to your surgeon’s preference. Of the most common procedures included in a mommy makeover is abdominoplasty which has the longest recovery. If abdominoplasty is included in your surgical plan, you should plan to take one to two weeks off from work.
You should plan to do some walking immediately after surgery, as this will help reduce chances of developing blood clots in the legs. Patients are typically up and about doing usual daily activities for the next several weeks, but avoiding strenuous activities and not lifting over 15-20 lb. These restrictions last until 12 weeks, at which point you will be released for full activities. Most plastic surgeons will use one or two drainage tubes that patients empty and keep track of the amount of fluid removed, and these can remain in place from anywhere from 3-6 weeks. Many plastic surgeons will also have you wear an abdominal binder or compression garments for several weeks to months during your post op recovery.
Recovery from most breast procedures generally takes less time (and basically fall within the abdominoplasty recovery), with 1-2 days off work, similar activity restrictions, and resumption of full activities in 6-8 weeks, depending on your surgeon.
Interested in mommy makeover?
If you are considering mommy makeover or wondering if you are a candidate for surgery, don’t be shy! Come meet with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons for a free consultation.