Many moms no longer feel that sacrificing their physical appearance should be a normal result of having children.  For this reason, more and more moms are seeking what is known as a mommy makeover.  In general, a mommy makeover includes tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), a surgical procedure that tightens the skin and the muscle wall around the stomach area, and a breast lift (also called mastopexy), a surgical procedure that improves the shape of the breasts by lifting the nipples and eliminating excess skin.

Due to pregnancy and/or breast feeding women may experience sagging skin, lax muscle layers, an excess of fatty tissue deposits under the skin, unsightly stretch marks, and a change in the shape of the breasts and the position of the nipples.  The shape of the body becomes less desirable and fitting into clothes becomes more difficult. Women who desire further physical changes may combine a mommy makeover with breast augmentation (implants), liposuction, or another type of cosmetic procedure.

How is a Mommy Makeover Performed?

A mommy makeover is a type of plastic surgery performed under general anesthesia.  During the procedure, you will be monitored by trained medical professionals who will ensure that you are comfortable.  The combination of abdominoplasty and breast lift may be performed at one time or in more than one surgery.

See our information about abdominoplasty and breast lifts to help you understand how each surgery is performed.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Mommy Makeover?

Women who are of relatively normal weight and who are in good general health with pockets of excess abdominal fat and skin that have not responded to diet and exercise, in addition to having no ongoing breast problems are suitable candidates for a mommy makeover.  Any woman who has been recently breastfeeding will want to allow sufficient time for the milk to dry up before undergoing the breast lift component of the surgery.  As in many types of breast surgery, an individual with a significant history of breast cancer in the family should consider the procedure more carefully.  Anyone who is significantly overweight should lose weight before considering a mommy makeover.

Recovering from a Mommy Makeover

As with any operation, there is a recovery period during which there may be some discomfort.  Immediately after a tummy tuck, most people experience swelling and may be unable to stand fully upright for a few days due to the tightening of the abdominal skin and muscles.

It will take a couple of weeks to regain full mobility after abdominoplasty.  The abdominal area will feel tight, and lifting heavy objects or any straining of the abdomen (including exercise) should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks.  The scars along the bikini line and around the belly button are permanent but will be less noticeable because of their placement.

Most women will be able to resume normal activities within a week or two of their breast lift with relatively little discomfort during the healing period. Patients can expect the shape of the breasts to be good initially, but the shape will improve further as the breasts go through settling and the skin relaxes and molds.  This may take about two to three months.

As in any operation, infection and bleeding are possible complications of a mommy makeover, prolonging the healing period. In light of the need to pull the skin along the abdominoplasty stitch line, you may heal a bit more slowly than anticipated.  In some instances, fluid may accumulate under the skin (a painless serum buildup) which usually resolves in time or responds to draining, a simple office procedure.  Sensation of the nipples will not be affected by the breast lift procedure. Scarring from the breast lift incisions is permanent but will likely fade and become less visible over time.

Mommy Makeover Results

A mommy makeover helps flatten and firm the tummy, enhance the shapeliness of the figure, reduce or eliminate stretch marks, and give the breasts a more youthful and uplifted appearance.  Regaining the youthful shape of the breasts, a slimmer profile and better-fitting clothes may help boost a woman’s sense of self esteem.

Want to Know More About Mommy Makeover?

If you are interested in mommy makeover procedures and/or mommy makeover fees, contact the office by phone or email to receive more information or to schedule a consultation appointment.