A Mommy Makeover offers one of the most comprehensive and personalized treatment plans to address the unwanted changes that develop after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Not only does Mommy Makeover surgery provide a variety of aesthetic improvements through a more streamlined treatment process, but it can also help boost confidence and body image after having children.
If you’re considering combining procedures to restore your pre-pregnancy body, knowing what to expect from the healing process and recovery period can be a crucial step in properly planning your surgery.
Board-certified Scottsdale plastic surgeon Steven Turkeltaub, MD outlines what Mommy Makeover patients can expect during their recovery and how to make the post-operative period as stress-free as possible.
Overview of a Mommy Makeover
A Mommy Makeover involves various breast and body procedures customized to address the changes that develop after pregnancy and/or breastfeeding. A tummy tuck and some type of cosmetic breast surgery is almost always included in a Mommy Makeover. Common breast procedures selected include a breast augmentation, breast lift, breast lift with implants or a breast reduction. Liposuction is another frequently-requested procedure.
A plan will be formulated to best meet your needs and goals.
Length of Recovery
As a personalized treatment process, the length of the recovery period after a Mommy Makeover varies from patient to patient. While women can generally expect to take one to two weeks off from non-strenuous work (longer if patients have more strenuous or demanding jobs), the duration of the healing process is generally determined by the type of tummy tuck performed. For example, a full or extended tummy tuck with musculature repair will warrant a more extensive recovery as compared to a mini tummy tuck in which only excess skin is removed.
The first few days of the healing process after a Mommy Makeover are typically the most uncomfortable. Swelling, bruising, tightness and discomfort are expected and the prescribed medications can help alleviate these reactions. You may feel tired for a few days or longer.
Frequent Ambulation is Important
While plenty of rest is paramount during recovery, Dr. Turkeltaub encourages you to frequently get up and ambulate after surgery rather than just lying in bed or in a chair. This will help to significantly reduce your risk of developing blood clots and better facilitate the healing process. By the same token, Mommy Makeover patients should be careful not to overdo it.
Dr. Turkeltaub provides his patients with activity guidelines and temporary restrictions. If you have any questions or concerns about whether a certain activity is safe at your stage of healing, you are encouraged to ask about it.
Help with Childcare and Household Responsibilities
One of the most practical preparatory steps for mothers is often to arrange help with childcare and supervision before a Mommy Makeover. Not only will surgery prevent you from driving early on, but a Mommy Makeover typically prohibits lifting anything heavier than 10 to 15 pounds for a period of time, including toddlers. In order to make the healing period as smooth as possible, women are encouraged to enlist help with pick-ups and drop-offs, preparing meals and supervising young children. Arranging for a spouse, significant other, another family member or a friend to assist with childcare for at least the first one to two weeks can help reduce the risk of various complications.
Similarly, patients should make a plan for completing household tasks like cooking, cleaning, laundry and grocery shopping in advance of surgery. Many patients find it helpful to prepare and freeze meals ahead of time, arrange for grocery delivery services or ask loved ones to set up a meal train for the first one to two weeks.
Setting up a dedicated “recovery room” at home can also support a calmer and more restful healing environment. Ensure that healthy snacks, water, medications, pillows and any other necessary items are within reach.
In general, all post-operative restrictions are usually lifted after 8 weeks. That said, patients should follow Dr. Turkeltaub’s guidance for the best possible outcome.
Compression Garments and Scar Care
Compression garments are required for several weeks after surgery. They provide support, facilitate greater comfort, reduce swelling and help shape your new contours. Wearing post-surgical bandages as prescribed by Dr. Turkeltaub plays an important role in the quality of your final results.
Silicone scar gel or tape is typically started around three to four weeks after surgery. It is employed to help maximize the aesthetic results.
Emotional Ups and Downs
Recovery from a Mommy Makeover isn’t just physical. Many patients experience a temporary emotional rollercoaster in the days or weeks following surgery. This can stem from hormonal fluctuations related to anesthesia and medications, frustration with limited mobility, discomfort with temporary swelling or simply the mental weight of having to rely on others for help. Knowing this is a common and temporary part of the process can make it easier to navigate. We encourage patients to surround themselves with adequate support throughout the healing process.
As a plastic surgeon board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Turkeltaub knows that gaining an informed understanding of the Mommy Makeover recovery process is critical to successful results and high-level patient satisfaction. He would be happy to discuss what to expect from every stage of a Mommy Makeover during your consultation, so don’t hesitate to contact the Arizona Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery today for more information.