Pregnancy and childbirth can have unfavorable effects on a woman’s breasts, abdomen, hips, and thighs. Extra skin, sagging, and stretch marks can appear on some or all of these areas. A “Mommy Makeover” may combine several procedures, such as a breast lift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and liposuction, in order to improve these problems. If you are considering a Mommy Makeover, you are probably curious about the details of recovery…and we are here to make sure that you completely understand what will be involved during this period!
A Mommy Makeover can include a combination of procedures performed in the same operation, which means the patient will be able to recover all at once versus requiring separate recovery periods for each individual procedure.
After surgery, some minor swelling, pain, and discomfort may occur. Bandages will be applied to the surgical areas to aid the healing process and to keep the incisions clean. Drainage tubes may be placed to remove any fluid that collects beneath the skin early on in the post-operative process. A pain pump or oral medication can be used to control pain and discomfort while in the hospital, and an overnight stay may be recommended for patients who undergo extensive surgery.
Mommy Makeover patients should arrange for someone to drive them home upon leaving the hospital. It is also advised that patients arrange for someone to help with daily activities during the first two weeks, especially for mothers with children younger than two years old at home.
A compression garment is recommended to be worn during the entire recovery period to provide support and reduce swelling as the body takes on its new shape. Expect to take at least two weeks off from work, and oral medications will be prescribed to help manage the pain during this time. As able, patients will need to practice deep breathing exercises and walk around comfortably, which will aid in the recovery process. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for up to six weeks depending on the extent of your procedure, and tummy tuck patients should avoid twisting motions and using their core muscles during this time. Incision scars can take up to two years to fully heal. They may not completely disappear, but they will be placed inconspicuously and well-hidden underneath clothing and bathing suits.
If you are considering a Mommy Makeover in Alabama, please call Plastic Surgery Specialists at (205) 298-8660 today to schedule a consultation. Either of our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Robert I. Oliver or Dr. Jason M. Jack, will further explain the Mommy Makeover recovery process during your visit and determine which procedure(s) will benefit you the most.