Typically a Mommy Makeover is a combination of some type of breast re-contouring, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or mini abdominoplasty and liposuction of the hips and thighs. When all 3 components are performed at the same time the results are usually very dramatic. In order to achieve the best outcome it is essential to closely follow the postoperative instructions given to you by your surgeon. Each surgeon has his or her own postoperative instructions. In our practice we have a lengthy discussion of the procedure and the postoperative instructions for each component of the Mommy Make Over. Of these 3 components tummy tuck requires the longest recovery.
A patient should plan on staying home for 2 weeks after a tummy tuck. After that they can begin to reengage in many day to day activities.
Athletic activities which create stress on the abdominal wall should be carefully reintroduced at 8 weeks progressing to 12 weeks. If the abdominoplasty included muscle tightening more aggressive exercises such as sit ups and abdominal crunches should wait for up to 12 weeks. Upper body restrictions will depend on the type of breast surgery performed. If a breast lift or a breast reduction is performed it is best to limit raising the arms high above the head until the incisions are sealed, which includes lifting your own baby. This normally takes up to 3 weeks. Unrestricted upper body activity can normally be resumed at 4 weeks. If an implant is used either for breast augmentation or in conjunction with a breast lift normal day-to-day upper body activities can normally be resumed in 2-4 days. It is best not to lift more than 10-15 pounds for 4 weeks after an implant is placed. Reintroduction of activity following liposuction is largely dependent on a patient’s individual tolerance. It is best however after liposuction to refrain from activities that will increase the blood pressure for 2 weeks postoperatively.
These are the postoperative instructions I give my patients. Each doctor however has his or her own postoperative instructions that they expect their patient’s to follow. It is very important that you follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions and call if you have any questions.