Mommy Makeover
Motherhood is one of the great joys of life. Unfortunately, the toll on a woman’s body as a result of pregnancy can be significant. It should not come as a surprise that these changes can be even greater with twins, following multiple pregnancies, or after significant fluctuations in weight. These changes can directly affect a woman’s breasts, abdomen, hips, and thighs. They can even affect the skin of the face. Diet, exercise, and weight loss alone are often not enough to regain that pre-baby body. A “mommy makeover” provides a way to address and correct pregnancy-related changes with a series of customized plastic surgery procedures.
What is a Mommy Makeover?
A mommy makeover is a combination of plastic surgery procedures and/or aesthetic treatments designed to target and improve key areas of the body changed by childbearing and aging. Often, multiple procedures may be performed during the span of one operation to maximize results, consolidate healing time, and reduce surgical costs. The procedures often incorporated in a mommy makeover are primarily focused on the breasts, abdomen, hips, and/or thighs. Some women may also opt to include facial rejuvenation treatments and cosmetic injectables to smooth wrinkles, add volume, and restore a youthful glow.
What Are the Benefits of a Mommy Makeover?
A customized mommy makeover plan can deliver significant cosmetic benefits to many regions of the body. Each woman’s mommy makeover needs are different and depend upon her areas of concern and desired results. Features of one’s physique that can be corrected with a mommy makeover may include:
- Drooping or deflated breasts
- Stubborn “baby weight”
- Excess skin around the abdomen
- Stretched or lax abdominal muscles
Below we have provided informative sections focused on the cosmetic issues many mothers experience and the procedures plastic surgeon Robert Rothfield, MD offers to improve their appearance:
Abdomen
Prior to pregnancy, women have an hourglass type of waistline. Following pregnancy, the hourglass shape becomes more square. This is a direct result of the separation of the abdominal muscles that can occur as a result of a growing baby in the uterus. The stretching of the muscle and its lining can result in a bulge of the abdomen, either up high, or down low, or both. In some instances, this bulge can even give the appearance that the woman is still pregnant. In some women, the belly button can become misshapen, and even develop a small hernia. The skin of the tummy is another area that is prone to significant changes. Stretch marks can occur or the skin can develop a cottage cheese-like appearance. A step-off can develop at the site of a C-Section scar. These are all changes that can be dramatically corrected with an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).
Breasts
During pregnancy and in the months immediately following, the beauty of the breasts is often accentuated as they become more full and firm. However, these changes are often short-lived and the breasts can deflate and droop. The areola can widen and the skin may sag. A breast augmentation, with either a saline or silicone implant, can restore the fullness that was present during or prior to pregnancy. If the breast has become droopy and the areolas enlarged, a breast lift (mastopexy) can be added to effectively address these issues as well.
Hips and Thighs
“Eating for two” may result in more weight gain than is ideal. Taking off this baby fat is difficult and can lead to certain problem areas that become resistant to post-partum weight loss. These areas typically include the outer thighs (saddle bags), the hips (muffin top) and back region. Traditional liposuction or newer more advanced techniques using ultrasonic equipment or CoolSculpting® can be extremely effective in restoring these areas to their pre-baby condition.
Who is a Candidate for a Mommy Makeover?
The goal of the Mommy Makeover is to restore and/or enhance the body to its pre-baby figure. It can be a single treatment or a combination of procedures and treatments that address those changes that result from child bearing. In reality, every healthy mother is a potential candidate!
A one-on-one consultation with Dr. Rothfield is the first step toward finding out if a mommy makeover is right for you. During this appointment you will have the opportunity to discuss the physical changes you have experienced as a mother and explain the improvements you would like to make to your figure. Once Dr. Rothfield has a clear idea of your goals, performs a physical exam, and reviews your medical history, he can describe which procedures and surgical techniques can create optimal results.
If you are not a candidate for surgery, Dr. Rothfield may recommend non-surgical, non-invasive CoolSculpting® for fat reduction and body contouring.
Dr. Rothfield is the BEST! He is not only an excellent plastic surgeon, but he’s honest about what to expect (pain level/management, outcome, etc). He is also readily accessible should you have a question or concern, either before or after your procedure. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
Debby Miller
September 08, 2020
When Is the Right Time for a Mommy Makeover?
While some believe a woman is eligible for a mommy makeover immediately after she gives birth, Dr. Rothfield has found that it is best to wait at least several months after giving birth before undergoing the treatment. As explained above, pregnancy and childbirth can cause drastic changes to a woman’s body, and it is generally best to recover from these changes before having surgery. That said, Dr. Rothfield understands that every woman’s body adapts to motherhood differently. He will help you decide whether now is the right time for you to get a mommy makeover during your consultation.
Meanwhile, there are steps you can take on your own to prepare for a mommy makeover. For one, you must quit smoking before the procedure, as smoking can cause a variety of problems with surgery. You are also advised to avoid anti-inflammatory drugs and certain herbal substances in the two weeks leading up to surgery, which can also adversely affect the surgery. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities, so Dr. Rothfield will always make sure his mommy makeover patients are in good health before moving forward with treatment.
How is a Mommy Makeover Performed?
Based on the treatments you choose to move forward with, Dr. Rothfield will develop a highly customized surgical plan for your mommy makeover. While some procedures can be performed together during one surgery, such as a breast lift and liposuction or a tummy tuck and breast lift with augmentation, some patients may be encouraged to stage their surgeries for added safety.
The exact way your mommy makeover is accomplished will be covered during the consultation process. In addition to detailing each surgical approach, Dr. Rothfield will take time to explain the type of anesthesia that will be used and whether your surgery will be performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis. He will also review what you can expect to experience before, during, and after the procedure(s), so that you are fully prepared.
What is Recovery from a Mommy Makeover Like?
The details of your recovery will depend upon the different procedures you have undergone and the degree of enhancement that was provided. Below we have highlighted the average timeline for recovery from the most popular mommy makeover treatment options. It is important to note, however, that each procedure does not necessarily lengthen total downtime—most mommy makeover recovery periods will be dictated by the most extensive procedure performed.
- Tummy Tuck – Most patients can begin driving after about five days of recovery, though they often wait two weeks to return to work and light exercise. Tummy tuck patients are encouraged to walk immediately after surgery, but told to avoid full exercise until one month after surgery.
- Breast Augmentation – Most patients return to work and driving after approximately five days, and resume light exercise after two weeks. Full exercise can usually begin after one month.
- Breast Lift – Most breast lift patients—with or without breast implants—generally return to driving and work after five days, light exercise after two weeks, and full exercise after one month.
- Liposuction – Patients who have a small volume of fat removed can usually start working and exercising again after two to three days, while large-volume liposuction patients take about five to seven days to return to work and exercise. Compression garments should be worn for approximately six weeks.
Some degree of discomfort is expected during the first few days following surgery; however, more severe pain can be managed with medication. It is important to get plenty of rest, adhere to post-operative instructions, and attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Rothfield as you recover. If you have undergone multiple procedures, your body may take more time to complete the healing process. For optimal healing, it is always preferable to take more rest if you feel you need it than to push yourself into your normal activities too soon.
Does a Mommy Makeover Leave Scars?
Anytime the skin is cut, either from a broken piece of glass or a surgical scalpel, there is a permanent scar that results. Dr. Rothfield carefully tailors each procedure to minimize and hide the scars as best as possible. In most cases, he is able to place the incisions in rather inconspicuous places, where they are relatively hidden. All scars will begin to fade to some degree over a period of six months or so and will continue to do so over the following years. If you have specific concerns about scarring, we encourage you to discuss the issue with Dr. Rothfield at your one-on-one consultation.
What Type of Mommy Makeover Results Can Be Expected?
The majority of Dr. Rothfield’s patients are thrilled with the results they achieve with a mommy makeover. His extensive experience and skill allow him to create lifted, shapely breasts, smooth abdominal contours, and leaner hips and thighs. For many mothers, especially those who have given birth to multiple children, plastic surgery provides the only method for achieving the figure they desire. After recovery, most mommy makeover patients experience a boost in confidence and enjoy highlighting the curves they used to hide.
How Do I Choose a Mommy Makeover Surgeon?
Choosing a mommy makeover surgeon starts with board certification. Look for a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to ensure proper training and safety standards. Next, review the surgeon’s experience with mommy makeovers, including how frequently they perform combined procedures such as tummy tucks, breast surgery, and liposuction. Before-and-after galleries can also help you assess their aesthetic style and consistency. During your consultation, assess how the surgeon listens to your goals, explains available options, and provides personalized recommendations. Make sure you feel comfortable asking questions and that communication is transparent. Additionally, ensure your surgeon has hospital privileges should you require emergency treatment in a hospital. Finally, confirm that procedures are performed in an accredited surgical facility and that the surgeon prioritizes safety, including proper anesthesia and comprehensive aftercare. The right mommy makeover surgeon combines technical expertise, artistic skills, and a patient-focused approach.
How Much Does a Mommy Makeover Cost?
The average cost of a mommy makeover is contingent upon the specific procedures included. In addition to the treatments themselves, the final cost will include testing fees, hospital fees, anesthesia, and other factors. We will be able to answer any financial questions more in depth during your consultation after a customized treatment plan has been developed.
We encourage you to explore our financing and payment options. We accept a variety of payment methods and even work with a few trusted third-party healthcare lending companies that can help qualified applicants pay for their mommy makeover procedures over time.
Additional Mommy Makeover Frequently Asked Questions
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Does insurance cover mommy makeovers?
Insurance does not cover a mommy makeover. Cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, tummy tuck surgery, and other aesthetic options that are often included in a mommy makeover are usually considered elective and not medically necessary. Breast reduction surgery, however, may be considered medically necessary and eligible for insurance coverage in some cases. -
How long do mommy makeover results last?
When mommy makeover procedures are performed by a qualified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Rothfield, and when patients maintain proper care of their health and skin over time, the results can last for many years. While the longevity of mommy makeover outcomes varies among patients, most individuals are able to achieve very long-lasting results if they lead a healthy lifestyle, limit weight fluctuations, and take excellent care of their skin. -
Does a mommy makeover hurt?
The mommy makeover procedure is performed under general anesthesia and patients will experience no pain during the surgery. All patients will experience some degree of soreness or tenderness immediately after surgery that is well controlled with medication if necessary. Swelling and/or bruising may occur in the treatment areas however, this will gradually subside as healing progresses. Most patients will need to take some time off from work to rest and recover, and Dr. Rothfield advises patients to avoid rigorous activities for several weeks to promote safe healing. -
Can I still have children after mommy makeover surgery?
It is possible and safe to have children after mommy makeover surgery. However, Dr. Rothfield recommends that patients wait until they have completed their families before undergoing these procedures. Pregnancy, weight gain, and childbirth can alter the results achieved by a mommy makeover, and may necessitate secondary surgeries for patients who wish to correct those concerns. -
Can I breastfeed after a mommy makeover?
Yes, most women can breastfeed after a mommy makeover. If you plan to breastfeed in the future, discuss this with Dr. Rothfield during your consultation. -
How can I manage swelling after a mommy makeover?
Swelling is normal and, in most cases, gradually improves over several weeks, but consistent care helps you heal more comfortably and efficiently. You can usually manage swelling after a mommy makeover by following provided post-operative instructions closely. Wearing compression garments as directed can help reduce swelling and support healing. Keeping your upper body slightly elevated while resting, staying well-hydrated, and taking short, gentle walks can also improve circulation. Avoid strenuous activity until cleared by Dr. Rothfield. -
Can a mommy makeover improve stretch marks?
A mommy makeover can improve the appearance of stretch marks in certain areas but results typically depend on their location. During a tummy tuck, stretch marks on the lower abdomen may be removed entirely if they fall within the skin that’s excised. Marks outside that area may still improve as the remaining skin is tightened. Breast lifts or reductions can sometimes reposition or remove stretch marks on the lower breast. However, stretch marks caused by deeper skin changes generally cannot be fully erased.
For more information on Mommy Makeovers or to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Robert E. Rothfield, please contact us at Weston Plastic Surgery.