A woman who goes through pregnancy will notice changes to her body, some of which may be unwanted. Those women may turn to a mommy makeover to get close to their pre-pregnancy shape. Mommy makeover is the informal term for a set of procedures the woman will undergo to achieve the desired results.
The woman works closely with a trusted surgeon, such as Dr. Joel Aronowitz to determine the personalized plan that she will undergo. This takes a host of factors into account, such as what areas she’s not happy with and what types of procedures she wants to go through.
What can a mommy makeover achieve?
A mommy makeover can dramatically change the woman’s body. It can address stretched abdominal muscles, saggy breasts, a wilting buttocks, and excess skin. These problems often can’t be addressed through diet and exercise, so surgical intervention is necessary.
For a woman who’s suffering with her body image after giving birth, the components of a mommy makeover can help to improve her self-esteem. Some women choose to include facial components, such as eyebrow lifts or lip fillers, to the mommy makeover to boost the benefits even more.
What are the challenges of a mommy makeover?
One of the biggest challenges for a woman who undergoes a mommy makeover is that she wouldn’t be able to lift more than 5 to 10 pounds as she recovers from the surgical procedures she has done. This can be difficult since she’ll have a baby, but having around-the-clock childcare help will alleviate that concern.
Some women may have more than one surgical procedure during the mommy makeover. They should ensure they have childcare for each of those. In some cases, that need will be for six to eight weeks.
Another challenge is ensuring proper nutrition after the procedures. Eating well and staying hydrated are critical for healing. Having prepared meals and plenty of hydrating options readily available after the procedures is beneficial so the woman can relax and focus on healing. Help around the house is also beneficial during this time.
What should a woman do if she wants a mommy makeover?
If a woman wants a mommy makeover, her first task is finding a reputable surgeon. Surgeons, such as Joel Aronowitz MD should be willing to answer questions about what’s possible and what the woman should expect. Once she chooses her surgeon, she can set the schedule for the procedures so she’ll be back to normal activities as quickly as possible.
When is the right time for a mommy makeover?
Timing is crucial when considering a mommy makeover. Most surgeons recommend waiting at least six months after giving birth before undergoing any cosmetic procedures. This allows the body time to recover naturally and for hormone levels to stabilize. Additionally, women who plan to have more children in the future might be advised to postpone their mommy makeover, as future pregnancies could potentially reverse the effects of the procedures.
It’s also important for women to have reached their target weight before undergoing a mommy makeover. Significant weight fluctuations after the procedures can affect the results. Ideally, a woman should maintain a stable weight for at least six months before considering these surgeries.
What procedures are typically included in a mommy makeover?
While each mommy makeover is tailored to the individual’s needs and desires, some procedures are more commonly included than others:
- Breast augmentation or lift: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause breasts to lose volume and sag. These procedures can restore fullness and improve breast shape.
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): This addresses excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles that often result from pregnancy.
- Liposuction: This can target stubborn fat deposits that remain despite diet and exercise.
- Buttock augmentation or lift: Some women opt for these procedures to enhance the shape and volume of their buttocks.
- Vaginal rejuvenation: This can address changes in the vaginal area that may occur due to childbirth.
How to prepare for a mommy makeover
Preparation is key to ensuring the best possible outcome from a mommy makeover. Here are some steps women can take:
- Stop smoking: Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. Quitting several weeks before surgery is crucial.
- Adjust medications: Some medications and supplements can increase bleeding risk. The surgeon will provide guidance on which ones to avoid.
- Arrange for help: As mentioned earlier, having support for childcare and household tasks is essential during recovery.
- Prepare the recovery area: Setting up a comfortable space with everything needed within reach can make the recovery period easier.
- Follow pre-op instructions: The surgeon will provide specific instructions on eating, drinking, and medication in the days leading up to surgery.
What to expect during recovery
Recovery from a mommy makeover can be challenging, but proper preparation can make it more manageable. The initial recovery period typically lasts about two weeks, during which time rest is crucial. Pain, swelling, and bruising are normal and can be managed with prescribed medications and cold compresses.
Most women can return to light activities after about two weeks, but it may take six to eight weeks before they can resume more strenuous activities or exercise. Full results from the procedures may not be visible for several months as the body continues to heal and settle into its new shape.
Potential risks and complications
As with any surgical procedure, mommy makeovers come with potential risks. These can include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Poor wound healing
- Unfavorable scarring
- Changes in skin sensation
- Asymmetry
- Anesthesia risks
It’s crucial for women to discuss these risks thoroughly with their surgeon and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions to minimize the likelihood of complications.
Long-term maintenance of results
While a mommy makeover can provide dramatic improvements, maintaining the results requires ongoing effort. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, is essential for preserving the effects of the procedures. Additionally, protecting the skin from sun damage can help maintain the quality of any surgical scars.
Some women may choose to have touch-up procedures in the future to address any changes that occur due to aging or weight fluctuations. Regular follow-ups with the surgeon can help monitor the long-term results and address any concerns that may arise.
In conclusion, a mommy makeover can be a transformative experience for many women, helping them regain confidence in their post-pregnancy bodies. However, it’s a significant decision that requires careful consideration, thorough preparation, and a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By working closely with a skilled and experienced surgeon, women can achieve their desired results and embrace their new look with confidence.