- Ensure You’re Done Having Kids
- Achieve Your Ideal Weight First
- Don’t Rush the Recovery Process
- Choose Your Surgeon Carefully
- Don’t Feel Guilty About Wanting Change
- Prioritize Your Budget and Goals
- Take It Easy – Healing is Key
- Pay Attention to the Details
- Choose a Board-Certified Surgeon
- Plan for Post-Surgery Care
A “Mommy Makeover” is popular for reshaping the body after pregnancy, childbirth and weight fluctuations. Whether you’re considering a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, or both, it’s important to plan for the impact that such a full-body transformation can have. To help you navigate the process, we reached out to top plastic surgeons for their best advice on what to expect before, during and after this ultimate two-for-one procedure.
Ensure You’re Done Having Kids
One of the first steps in deciding whether to undergo a Mommy Makeover is ensuring that you’re finished having children. McMurray, PA plastic surgeon Simona V. Pautler, MD who specializes in these procedures, advises that pregnancy can undo the results of certain procedures, especially in areas like the tummy. “If you plan on having more children, it’s best to wait,” she explains. “You’ll get better results if you’re certain that your family is complete.”
Achieve Your Ideal Weight First
Before undergoing surgery, it’s crucial to be as close as possible to your ideal weight. According to Dr. Paulter, “Patients who are at a healthy weight for their height and bone structure typically see better, more lasting results. If you’re planning to lose weight, do it before your procedure, not after.” Achieving your goal weight beforehand will ensure that the results of your Mommy Makeover are the most flattering for your body.
Don’t Rush the Recovery Process
Recovery time is key to ensuring your Mommy Makeover is a success. New York plastic surgeon Jordan S. Terner, MD advises giving yourself ample time to heal properly and not rushing back into physical activity. “After a Mommy Makeover, you need to allow your body to rest and recover,” he stresses. “I recommend some patients separate breast procedures from tummy tucks to make the recovery process easier, but the main thing is to have enough time and help to heal.”
Choose Your Surgeon Carefully
While social media is a great tool to discover potential surgeons, Dr. Terner cautions against making your decision based solely on Instagram photos. “Instagram can be misleading,” he says. “Do your research, meet with at least two or three surgeons and look for personal referrals. A skilled surgeon will have a portfolio of real, successful results that align with your goals.”
Don’t Feel Guilty About Wanting Change
Many mothers experience guilt about wanting to improve their appearance, but Newport Beach, CA plastic surgeon Sanjay Grover, MD believes there’s no need to feel bad. “I’ve heard many stories of moms who feel like they’ve sacrificed everything for their children,” he shares. “A Mommy Makeover isn’t about vanity; it’s about improving your confidence and feeling like yourself again. This can actually make you a better partner and mother.”
Prioritize Your Budget and Goals
Houston, TX plastic surgeon Olga Bachilo, MD recommends patients prioritize their main areas of concern, especially when considering a procedure that fits their budget. “Not everything needs to be done at once,” she advises. “Make a list of what’s most important to you. Depending on your budget and goals, you may want to break your procedures into stages for the best results.”
Take It Easy – Healing is Key
Nashville plastic surgeon Daniel A. Hatef, MD warns that pushing yourself too hard to heal quickly can lead to complications, especially when undergoing liposuction or abdominoplasty. “Seromas, or fluid buildup, can happen if you rush the healing process,” he explains. “It’s vital to wear compression garments and avoid standing up too straight or doing too much too soon. Healing takes time and rushing it can actually delay your recovery.”
Pay Attention to the Details
Grand Rapids, MI plastic surgeon Bradley Bengtson, MD emphasizes the importance of creating a natural and aesthetically pleasing result, particularly with tummy tucks and breast surgeries. “A key focus of mine is crafting a natural-looking belly button,” he shares. “It may sound like a small detail, but the shape and positioning of the belly button can make a huge difference in the overall outcome of a tummy tuck.”
Choose a Board-Certified Surgeon
Dr. Bachilo stresses that choosing a surgeon with experience in the specific procedures you’re interested in is essential. “Make sure the surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery,” she advises. “Ask about their experience with your desired procedures and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions. Your surgeon should make you feel comfortable and confident in their care.”
Plan for Post-Surgery Care
Grand Rapids, MI plastic surgeon David Alfonso, MD emphasizes the importance of planning for post-surgery care, especially if you have young children. “Ensure you have adequate help for the first few weeks after surgery,” he says. “The more help you have, the better the recovery will be. It’s important to allow yourself time to rest and heal without feeling rushed to get back to everyday tasks.”
“Since most patients have children at home, having a well-established plan for post-operative support provides the confidence needed to focus on recovery,” adds Pittsburgh, PA plastic surgeon Jeffrey R. Antimarino, MD.
