A mommy makeover is best described as a combination of procedures that are designed to improve the form and function of various regions of the body that may have been affected by a recent pregnancy. The surgery is incredibly customizable, allowing for the patient’s individual concerns to be addressed effectively.
The surgeries that are most often included in a mommy makeover include:
- Breast augmentation
- Breast reduction
- Liposuction
- Abdominoplasty
- Breast lift
- Labiaplasty
- Non-invasive cosmetic procedures
As a mommy makeover is a major aesthetic procedure, prospective patients are naturally concerned about how much recovery time they will need. Understanding how much time one needs to take off from work and responsibilities following a mommy makeover will make them feel more confident and comfortable going forward.
Mommy Makeover Recovery
The recovery time for a mommy makeover is naturally incredibly variable, as every individual’s body has a different rate of recovery and will undergo different procedures. A general rule of thumb is that the more procedures a patient receives, the longer their recovery period will be. Overall, the recovery period from a mommy makeover is not characterized as being ‘short.’
The length of the recovery period is essentially determined by the most extensive procedure performed, as it will require the most downtime. In most cases, the tummy tuck is the most extensive treatment.
Here are general guidelines for the main procedures:
Breast lift/breast augmentation – Patients can get back to work after just a week but will need to refrain from strenuous activity for at least 6 weeks.
Liposuction – Patients can go back to work the a few days following the procedure but will have to wait 6 weeks before engaging in strenuous activity
Tummy tuck – Patients have to wait 2 weeks before going back to work and will have to wait at least 6 weeks before doing any strenuous activity.
Preparation
There are some things that patients can do before their surgery to make recovery easier. Having a designated rest area is of utmost importance. Patients are recommended to buy some extra pillows to help them achieve complete relaxation. All necessary items for a relaxed time (snacks, TV remote, books, laptop/tablet, etc) should all be within arm’s reach.
Immediately following the surgery
A mommy makeover is an outpatient procedure, meaning that patients will be discharged to go home the same day. Patients are fitted with compression garments and given a prescription for pain medication. Patients will need someone to drive them home as they will still be under the effects of anesthesia.
Patients will be on pain medication for the first week, so it is recommended that they arrange for someone to help out around the house. During this period, patients are not supposed to drive and are recommended to take ibuprofen or any other NSAID.
After the first week, patients can resume light childcare responsibilities that are not physically strenuous. They are not to lift more than 5 pounds for the several months following the procedure. Beyond that, patients who undergo an abdominoplasty as part of their procedure will need to stay bent at the waist for the first 2 weeks following the treatment.
1-6 Weeks Post-Surgery
Patients have their first post-procedural appointment a week following the treatment and another follow-up visit at the 6-week mark. All stitches are removed during the first post-op appointment.
Bruising, swelling, and soreness are all common and to be expected. These effects are temporary and usually fade away by the 6 to 8-week mark. While most mommy makeover procedures are carried out without any complications, they are always a possibility. Infections around the suture sites are a notable concern that must be protected against. Patients are recommended to carefully follow all instructions laid out for them by the doctor, including avoiding swimming for at least three weeks.
6 weeks and beyond
After about 6 weeks to 2 months of recovery, most patients are able to resume exercise and other strenuous activities without negatively impacting their results. By this time, any swelling or bruising associated with the operation will have subsided, and patients will start to see the full results of their treatment.
What is the takeaway?
A mommy makeover is a powerful tool for all women who experience unwanted changes in their bodies following a pregnancy. While there is some downtime associated with the operation, it is a small price to pay for the long-lasting effects that the treatment provides. Having a plan laid out ahead of time and setting up a relaxing environment will ensure that patients have a smooth, peaceful recovery period.
As with any surgical procedure, it is recommended that patients refer to an experienced, skilled practitioner to carry out their treatment.
