What is a mommy makeover and is it worth it?

what is a mommy makeover
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Pregnancy and childbirth are traumatic processes that can cause noticeable changes to the body. Crucial adjustments to hormone levels and a greatly expanding uterus are necessary to nurture and protect the growing fetus; however, these adaptations can often leave new mothers with a different post-pregnancy body. While diet and exercise are powerful tools for getting back to your ideal weight, many women find that the proportions of their new bodies have changed. For cases like these, a mommy makeover procedure is an excellent tool to help moms feel like themselves again.

What is a Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover is a plastic surgery action plan that addresses several areas of the body most impacted by pregnancy and childbirth. Many moms are opting for Mommy Makeover surgery to address issues with the abdomen, breasts, and pelvic floor. Since no two bodies will respond to pregnancy and birth the same way, each mom is usually given the option to choose which procedures are appropriate for her unique circumstance. 

Many months of stress placed against the abdominal wall as the midsection sheltered a rapidly growing human can have a traumatic effect on stomach muscles. These impacts are more pronounced for women with caesarian deliveries. These are some of the main reasons why liposuction or a tummy tuck is a significant component for most mommy makeovers to assist with regaining a flat stomach.  

Hormonal changes in breast tissue resulting from pregnancy or breastfeeding can result in the loss of breast volume or sagging. A breath lift is a procedure that removes excess skin and tightens the skin, creating the appearance of a more youthful breast. Still, some women may opt for breast augmentation to recapture lost volume and increase overall breast size. 

When is the Right Time for a Mommy Makeover?

It takes several months for the body to recover from the damage sustained by giving birth, and surgical or complicated deliveries can require more time. Most surgeons recommend no sooner than six to 12 months after birth for the best outcome. Any significant weight gain or loss can negatively affect results, so it may be best to put off the surgery until you are close to your ideal weight. 

Some physicians recommend waiting until the family is complete and no other pregnancies are planned before planning a mommy makeover procedure. This recommendation is mainly due to the adverse effects of future pregnancy on long-term results. Since breastfeeding can dramatically expand breast tissue, most doctors suggest waiting three to six months after weaning. 

Is a Mommy Makeover worth it?

According to RealSelf’s 2020 Most Worth It Ratings, 97% of patients said that a mommy makeover was worth having. If you’re thinking about having a mommy makeover, it’s important that you have a clear idea of your post-surgery goals. After all, it is a big investment – mommy makeover surgery can range from $9,000 to $20,000. If you are looking to reshape your body after childbirth, reduce sagging skin or feel more confident about the way you look and feel after childbirth then yes, a mommy makeover could be what you are hoping for. However, it’s important to note that mommy makeover surgery cannot stop the aging process and should not be considered an alternative to traditional weight loss methods or a healthy lifestyle.

Preparing for Post-Surgery

Drawing up a game plan before surgery helps simplify recovery and helps control stress that may impede healing. Managing expectations for the immediate recuperation period will help you accept your body’s temporary limitations and keep you from overexerting after arriving home. Setting up a quiet recovery area with plenty of pillows and a comfortable chair or recliner makes it easier to relax after abdominal surgery.

Having a family member or trusted friend help with childcare, shopping, and meal preparation will lighten your load and give you more time to rest and recover. Post-surgical instructions may limit the weight you can safely lift, so preplanning assistance for laundry will help in safely navigating those first few weeks. While there is a low risk of complications with mommy makeover surgery, be on the lookout for excessive bleeding and other signs of infection. 

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