Are you frustrated with your post-baby body?  You’re not alone.  Many women are unhappy with the body changes that occur as a result of pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.  Having a baby can bring about some dramatic changes to the body that can’t be fixed with a healthy diet and lifestyle, but a mommy makeover can help.  But what is a mommy makeover? 

What Is A Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover refers to a combination of procedures for women wanting to restore their pre-pregnancy shape.  The specific procedures included in a mommy makeover vary depending on the body concerns of the patient.  However, mommy makeovers generally focus on the breast and tummy, which are the areas most impacted by pregnancy and childbirth. 

Breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), and liposuction are the procedures most often included in a mommy makeover.

• Breast Augmentation –  Restores fuller, youthful contours to deflated breasts using saline or silicone implants.  Breast augmentation improves the size and shape of the breasts. 
• Breast Lift – Lifts sagging breasts to a higher position on the chest by removing excess skin.  A breast lift makes the breasts look perkier and more youthful. 
• Tummy Tuck –  Flattens and firms the stomach and restores abdominal contours by removing loose skin and excess fat from the abdominal area.  A tummy tuck may also involve tightening the tummy muscles that were separated or weakened during pregnancy. 
• Liposuction – Removes stubborn pockets of fat from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and hips.   Liposuction may be performed using traditional methods or more advanced techniques such as external ultrasonic-assisted liposculpture (EUAL).  EUAL uses ultrasound energy to liquefy unwanted fat.

How Long Does It Take To Recover After A Mommy Makeover?

The recovery period after a mommy makeover varies depending on which procedures were performed.  Most patients need to take at least 2 weeks off work after a mommy makeover.  However, patients with jobs that require physical activity will need to take additional time off.  

Recovering after a mommy makeover can be intensive.  Patients can expect to experience some swelling and bruising that can last for several weeks.    However, with proper planning and the necessary support at home, patients can have a smooth, successful recovery.  

When To Consider A Mommy Makeover

If you are unhappy with your post-baby body and have been unable to reverse the physical effects with diet and exercise, a mommy makeover may be the solution for you. 

Candidates for a mommy makeover should also be non-smokers and have realistic expectations about the procedure.  

Doctors typically advise women to wait until they are finished having children before considering a mommy makeover, as pregnancy will undo some of the benefits of the procedures.  

Benefits Of A Mommy Makeover

A mommy makeover often consists of a breast augmentation/breast lift, liposuction, and tummy tuck.  Combining procedures is an efficient solution as there is only a single recovery.   This makes mommy makeover ideal for busy moms who are juggling family and work and find it hard to take time off for recovery.

Doing multiple procedures together also enhances the overall aesthetic outcome, as several cosmetic issues are addressed simultaneously. 

Another benefit of a mommy makeover is it combats a variety of cosmetic issues.  It rejuvenates the breasts, gets rid of loose skin and excess fat, reduces stretch marks, and tightens the tummy muscles. 

Aside from the obvious physical benefits, a mommy makeover also has psychological benefits, as most women feel confident and happy when they look good.  

If you have body image issues brought on by pregnancy and childbirth, you can improve your body and self-confidence with a mommy makeover.