Getting mommy makeover surgery at our Birmingham, AL, practice represents an investment of both time and money, but most patients believe it’s well worth the stunning, transformative results.
Once a patient sees the outcome of a mommy makeover procedure, she’s motivated to take the necessary steps to ensure long-lasting results. These tips involve short-term actions before surgery and during the recovery process and long-term lifestyle changes that can become lifelong habits.
Here are 5 tips that can help you maintain the results of your mommy makeover:
1. Choose a plastic surgeon with experience performing combination procedures.
This is probably the most important component of getting results that last for years. A mommy makeover is a complex surgery that involves careful planning and excellent surgical techniques. I’ve performed hundreds of mommy makeovers during my career, and there really is no substitute for the knowledge that comes with experience. Learn more about the surgeon’s role in mommy makeover surgery in my related blog post.
2. Closely follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions.
Getting enough rest is something you’ll hear from every plastic surgeon after a mommy makeover, and for good reason—it’s critical for the healing process. Additionally, wearing the Spanx®-type compression garment on the abdomen as instructed not only helps reduce swelling but also creates smoother contours and tighter skin. Wearing support bras also helps the breasts heal and prevents sagging after a breast lift (with or without implants). It’s also important to avoid exercising too early, even if you feel okay. Trying to do too much, too soon compromises the lasting results.
3. Lead a healthy lifestyle.
Many patients ask us, “How do I prepare my body for a mommy makeover.” Our answer is to start incorporating healthy lifestyle choices into your daily life before surgery. Being active, exercising regularly, and consuming a nutritious diet ensure you maintain your weight and your results over the long term. This also includes quitting smoking, as it takes a severe toll on the skin.
After recovering from your surgery, wear a quality support bra during exercise to prevent breast tissue from stretching.
4. Get to and stay at a healthy weight.
What is the ideal weight for a mommy makeover? Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all ideal weight for a mommy makeover. In general, however, you should be at or near your goal weight for several months before surgery. A stable, healthy weight improves surgical outcomes and helps ensure long-lasting results. If you’re still in the process of losing weight, it’s often best to reach your target weight first before undergoing mommy makeover procedures like a tummy tuck or liposuction.
You’ll also want to prevent weight fluctuations after surgery. Cycles of weight gain and loss stretch the skin and make it less and less elastic. This not only affects the abdominal area after a tummy tuck but also the breasts. Gaining 15 pounds or more, for example, enlarges the breasts and stretches the tissue, causing the breasts to sag prematurely.
5. Make sure you’re prepared for the needed mommy makeover recovery time.
A mommy makeover is a major surgery that requires adequate time for healing. Most patients need at least 2 weeks of dedicated rest before gradually resuming daily activities. Full recovery can take several months. Plan ahead by arranging for childcare, meal prep, and help with household tasks so you can focus on healing. You should also plan to take at least 2 to 3 weeks off from work, depending on the physical demands of your job.
You’ll also need to abstain from strenuous exercise for at least 6 weeks and follow your surgeon’s guidelines for wearing compression garments, managing discomfort, and gradually easing back into normal routines. By preparing in advance, you can set yourself up for a smoother, stress-free recovery and ensure your body heals beautifully.
Getting Started
If you’re frustrated because your post-baby body hasn’t bounced back the way you’d like, use the online form to request a consultation to meet personally with me and discuss your concerns. Or call our practice at (205) 933-9308 to schedule an appointment.
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