Mommy Makeover- Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

A Mommy Makeover combines cosmetic procedures to address post-pregnancy physical changes, which can include deflated or sagging breasts, loose or stretched abdominal skin, and stubborn fat deposits that resist the most rigorous diet and exercise routines. Also known as MMO surgery, this procedure targets multiple areas of the body, including the breasts, abdomen, waist, genitalia, and buttocks. The common goal of all MMO procedures is to help women regain their pre-pregnancy physiques.

The phrase 'mommy makeover' has become increasingly common as women explore options to reverse the physical effects of childbirth. The procedure is highly customizable, enabling women to address their unique concerns.

A typical mommy makeover includes procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck, and liposuction. In some cases, it may also involve buttock augmentation or vaginal rejuvenation. Many clinics offer mommy makeover packages tailored to individual needs.

This page will explore everything you need to know about the mommy makeover, from candidacy and planning to recovery and results.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Mommy Makeover?

Not every woman is an ideal candidate for a mommy makeover. The procedure is best suited for women who:

• Are in good health and do not smoke.
• Have realistic expectations about the results.
• Have completed breastfeeding and do not plan on future pregnancies.
• Are at a stable weight but struggle with loose skin or stubborn fat that does not respond to diet and exercise.

Individual needs vary, so consulting a qualified surgeon is key to determining whether a mommy makeover is right for you. The surgeon will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and create a personalized plan.

For example, a woman who has lost significant weight after pregnancy might prefer a tummy tuck to remove excess skin, while another might prioritize breast augmentation to restore volume lost after breastfeeding. The key is to have clear goals and work with a surgeon who can help you achieve them.

Consultation and Planning

Here are the aspects to consider when planning a mommy makeover procedure:

Choosing a Surgeon

Finding the right surgeon is a critical part of the mommy makeover process. Seek a board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience with mommy makeover surgeries. A qualified surgeon understands the complexities of combining multiple procedures and will prioritize your safety and satisfaction.

When researching surgeons, consider the following:

• To understand patient satisfaction, read through patient reviews and testimonials.
• Evaluate surgeon skill through before-and-after patient photos.
• Select a surgeon who operates in an accredited surgical center with recognized safety standards.

The Importance of Consultation and Planning

A consultation is vital to ensure a personalized treatment plan, allowing the surgeon to assess your anatomy and discuss your desired outcomes. During this meeting, you will discuss the following:

• The desired amount of restoration.
• Placement of incisions to minimize visible scarring.
• The type of implant (if applicable), such as silicone or saline.
• Any additional procedures that may be needed, such as buttock augmentation or vaginal rejuvenation.

In the case of breast augmentation, for instance, the surgeon will assist in selecting an appropriate implant size and shape to produce a natural aesthetic outcome. When you talk to a surgeon about a tummy tuck, they will explain the difference between a full and a mini tummy tuck and help you decide which is right for you.

Pre-operative Instructions

Following specific pre-operative instructions ensures a safe and successful procedure. These instructions may include:

• Quitting smoking at least six weeks prior to your surgery to promote optimal healing.
• Avoiding blood thinners and other medications that increase bleeding risk.
• Ensuring full disclosure of all pre-existing conditions and risk factors.
• Clarifying the required changes and desired outcomes with your surgeon.

If you have a history of deep venous thrombosis, your surgeon may recommend additional precautions to minimize the risk of blood clots during and after surgery. Also, if you are taking medications for a chronic condition, your surgeon may adjust your dosage or recommend temporary discontinuation before the procedure.

Which Procedures are Usually Included in the Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover is performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation. The best option will be discussed by the surgeon during the consultation. General anesthesia is typically used for more extensive procedures, as it ensures that you remain unconscious and pain-free throughout the surgery. Local anesthesia with sedation may be an option for less invasive procedures, such as liposuction or a mini tummy tuck.

Here is an overview of the procedures included in a mommy makeover.

Body Contouring Procedures

Body contouring helps shape areas like your stomach, waist, and thighs for a more toned and balanced look. Body contouring may involve liposuction to remove stubborn fat from the flanks and thighs and a tummy tuck to tighten the abdominal wall muscles and remove excess skin.

• Liposuction enhances body contouring by sculpting targeted areas and creating a more defined silhouette.
• A tummy tuck treats excess skin, stretch marks, and weakened abdominal muscles caused by pregnancy. It also repairs diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles separate. Options include a full tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck, depending on the patient’s needs.

Breast Enhancement Surgery

• Breast Augmentation: This procedure uses silicone or saline implants to restore volume and improve the shape of the breasts. A breast lift (mastopexy) may also be performed to address sagging and reposition the nipples for a more youthful appearance.
• Breast Reduction: This surgery offers relief from discomfort and enhances body proportions for women with excessively large breasts.

Buttock Augmentation

Buttock augmentation can be achieved in the following ways:

• Buttock implants: Gluteal augmentation, commonly involving buttock implants, is a surgical procedure where artificial devices are inserted into the buttocks to increase volume and enhance shape.
• Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL): This involves fat transfer from other areas of the body to enhance shape and volume.

Other Potential Procedures

Additional procedures, such as an arm lift, thigh lift, or vaginal rejuvenation, may also be included in a mommy makeover based on individual needs.

What is a Mini Mommy Makeover?

A mini mommy makeover involves less invasive procedures that target one or two specific areas, such as liposuction or a mini tummy tuck. It is ideal for women with milder concerns or those seeking a shorter recovery period.

How Long Does a Mommy Makeover Surgery Take?

The procedure typically takes three to five hours, depending on the number of procedures performed. On average, patients are hospitalized for one to two days for monitoring and initial recovery. However, with highly invasive procedures, a longer hospital stay may be necessary.

What are the Benefits, Risks, and Potential Complications?

Benefits

• Restores body contours after pregnancy.
• Lifts self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Addresses multiple concerns in a single surgery.
• Results can be long-lasting with proper maintenance.

Risks and Complications

Mommy makeover risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, and anesthesia-associated risks.

There are also some procedure-specific risks. These include:

• Breast surgery: Loss of nipple sensation, implant leak, capsular contracture, or anaplastic large cell lymphoma.
• Tummy tuck: Poor healing of incisions, hematoma, or seroma.
•  Liposuction: Fat necrosis, contour deformity, or fat embolization.

A few rare but severe risks may include deep venous thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications, or asymmetry. The fatality rate of the Mommy makeover is extremely low.

What to Expect During Recovery?

During post-operative care, it is vital to:

• Diligently follow all wound care instructions to prevent infections and ensure optimal healing.
• Wear compression garments as directed to reduce swelling and support the treated areas.
• Manage pain with prescribed medications.
• Avoid lifting heavy items or participating in strenuous activities for several weeks following your procedure.

Recovery from a mommy makeover is individualized but generally spans four to six weeks. While light activities may be resumed within two to three weeks, a full return to normal activities is usually expected around the six-week mark. Final results are usually visible within six to twelve months once the swelling has subsided and the body has fully healed.

How Painful is a Mommy Makeover?

Post-procedure discomfort is manageable with medication and usually subsides within a few weeks. To speed up the recovery process, it is important to rest, stay hydrated, and follow your surgeon’s advice.

What are the Expected Outcomes?

The expected outcomes are improved body contours and enhanced self-confidence. Most mommy makeover procedures involve invasive surgery that usually provides long-lasting results with proper maintenance. However, it is essential to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.

However, it is also important to mention that some women experience mommy makeover regret due to unmet expectations or complications.

The Bottom Line

A mommy makeover is a potential solution for women looking to reclaim their pre-pregnancy bodies. By combining procedures like breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and liposuction, this surgery addresses multiple concerns in one go. With proper planning, a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon, and realistic expectations, you can achieve favorable results and renewed confidence.

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