Women talk about it all the time – the ways in which our bodies change. This happens not only as we age, but especially after we have children. The way our body transforms and adapts during pregnancy and thereafter is truly remarkable! Unfortunately, this miracle is also often paired with some less than desirable changes to the way we look and ultimately the way we feel. While we encourage women to embrace their bodies and appreciate it in all of its phases, we also understand and support a woman deciding to get a little assistance getting closer to where she wants her body to be.

What does a “Mommy Makeover” typically entail?

A “Mommy makeover” actually refers to a series of procedures performed in the same surgical session that aim to improve the appearance of areas most affected by childbearing. The procedures in a mommy makeover are completely personalized to each patient and can include:

• Breast augmentation (implants or fat transfer)

• Breast lift

• Breast reduction

• Liposuction

• Tummy tuck

• Mini tummy tuck

• BBL or Brazilian butt lift

• Labiaplasty

• Non-surgical procedures (laser skin tightening, vaginal rejuvenation etc.)

Mommy makeovers are performed at least six weeks after the patient has given birth. (Breastfeeding mothers should wait six weeks after they have stopped breastfeeding.) You should wait until you are done having children to have a mommy makeover as having another child will undo the effects of the procedure.

What are the benefits to having a “Mommy Makeover”?

During pregnancy, your skin, tissue, and abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate the growing baby. While diet and exercise can help you lose extra weight after childbirth, your body may not bounce back. In addition, breastfeeding changes the breasts in ways that exercise cannot undo. This is why mommy makeovers are so popular: they improve the areas that don’t respond well to exercise.

It’s important to know that a mommy makeover is not a weight loss surgery and is not guaranteed to remove or reduce stretch marks. If you are concerned about stretch marks, be sure to discuss this during your consultation.

Since a mommy makeover allows you to improve multiple areas with just one surgery, you’ll only be put under anesthesia once and you’ll only have one recovery period. Whether you’re a working mom or a stay at home mom, you’ll appreciate less downtime!

Another major benefit of a mommy makeover is the self-esteem boost. Many women struggle with the changes that pregnancy and breastfeeding bring. While diet and exercise can certainly help you lose the “baby weight”, there are some areas that won’t respond. If you have loose skin, sagging breasts, or stubborn fat deposits, a mommy makeover can improve the appearance of these areas and help you look and feel more like your pre-baby self.

Recovery & What to Expect After a Mommy Makeover  

You will be recovering from anesthesia during this time and it is important that someone drive you home from and stay with you for 24 hours following the procedure. We recommend having someone nearby for the first few weeks after your surgery. You will appreciate a helping hand!

Plan to take at least two weeks off work and avoid strenuous activity and exercise for 6 weeks. You will be on narcotic pain medication and unable to drive for at least one week following surgery. Plan to sleep on your back or side, with your upper body and feet elevated. (Many patients choose to sleep in a recliner during recovery.)

You will have a minimum of 3 post-op appointments with your doctor: one a week after the surgery, one 2 months post-surgery, and the final appointment at 6 months after surgery. If you need to see your doctor at anytime between these appointments, please call your provider and let them know.

You should expect to be sore and swollen for up to 6 weeks after surgery and can expect to spend up to three months recovering. Your recovery time depends on the exact procedures you had and your body’s ability to recover.

As always, you should contact your provider if you have any other questions – they are there to assist you and make this exciting journey as easy as possible for you!