If you've considered a “Mommy Makeover," you're not alone. Changes to the body following childbirth are one of the main reasons that women seek plastic surgery to target loose skin and encourage overall weight loss after pregnancy.
A “Mommy Makeover” is a term that typically describes a combination of a tummy tuck(abdominoplasty) and breast surgery, such as a breast augmentation, breast lift, or both. Combining these procedures can be more cost-effective and time-saving than getting them done separately. However, patient safety and recovery are always a priority when considering combination surgery, so you may need to complete these surgeries in stages.
Worried About the Mommy Makeover Recovery?
Here is a clear guide on what to expect in the first few weeks post-surgery.
Day One
After your surgery, you'll wake up in our surgery center in a comfortable reclining chair position. Your abdomen may be sore and tight, but it won't affect your breathing or eating. Expect a tight or swollen sensation in your breasts, with mild pain. You'll have an abdominal binder and/or bra for support, as well as drains that your caregiver will be instructed on. Assistance will be needed getting home and getting around for a few days, but you'll be able to walk on your own with minimal assistance in no time. You should get up and move intermittently with short walks around the house right away to help prevent blood clots.
Pain management will be tailored to your needs, and a combination of medications will be used for your comfort. Following post-op instructions on rest, ice, and elevation will also help you manage pain and swelling. Choose easy-to-digest foods and liquids.
Weeks One and Two
Expect more soreness, mild pain, and tiredness during the first week. Help with household chores will be necessary, especially the care of young children. You'll want to stick to a diet that consists of lean protein and high fiber foods, avoiding excess fat, sugar, and dairy. Drinking lots of water will help to reduce swelling. You'll need lots of rest, but not too much. It's important to get up and move around for short periods of time to help prevent complications. Daily showers and drain care are important for incision cleanliness. Your drains will be removed in the office within the first 7-10 days.
Weeks Three and Four
During this time, you'll begin to feel more comfortable standing up straight. Tiredness will start to reside. The swelling in your abdomen may worsen throughout the day but will improve overnight. Short walks are encouraged, and those with light activity jobs can return to work. You still won't be able to do any vigorous exercise or heavy lifting, but you'll start to feel more like yourself again.
Weeks Four To Six
Your initial recovery period is almost complete. Those with more strenuous jobs can start returning to work at a slightly slower pace. Gradually increasing gentle exercise is appropriate, but each patient's ability to return to full activity will vary. During this time you might feel anxious or conflicted about swelling and scars. Don't worry! This will improve over time.
Beyond Your Mommy Makeover Recovery
After undergoing a “Mommy Makeover”, patients typically begin seeing their outcome around three months. However, it is not uncommon to observe further improvements for several months afterwards. If you have any concerns or inquiries regarding your recovery or results, it is recommended to consult with a board-certified surgeon. They are dedicated to assisting you throughout the process!
Schedule A Consultation for a Mommy Makeover with the Centre
Interested in a Mommy Makeover surgery? Contact us to schedule a consultation with our Board Certified Surgeons based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to discuss what’s best for you.
By: Julia Weston