How To Recover From Your Mommy Makeover With Ease

A mommy makeover is that extra push many new moms need to get their bodies back in shape. This customized combination of plastic surgery procedures can help a mom feel great about her appearance and get back into clothes that may fit differently following pregnancy. For many women, their once-firm bodies now have loose skin in the tummy area, stretch marks, and sagging breasts. A mommy makeover can help restore your figure to what it was before pregnancy.

The plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery are highly skilled in the procedures that comprise mommy makeovers. Their Northern Virginia office is a relaxing and warm environment, featuring state-of-the-art technology that provides excellent results. At Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we pride ourselves in educating our patients on the best tips for recovery. When patients are prepared ahead of time and know what to expect after surgery, it can help them get back to their routine sooner rather than later. Read below for information about what to expect from recovery and how to do it with ease.

Yes, I want a mommy makeover!

As a new mother, it can be challenging to think of yourself as a priority, so the decision to proceed with a mommy makeover takes a considerable amount of thought. When women in Northern Virginia have a mommy makeover, they may include one or more of the following procedures:

Breast augmentation and lift. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fluctuations in hormones can create sagginess and volume loss in the breasts. Breast augmentation and a breast lift can increase the size and shape of your breasts, as well as improve symmetry and position.

Liposuction. During this procedure, excess fatty tissue is removed to create a smoother, more contoured body. Liposuction can be combined with a tummy tuck to help achieve maximum results for the abdominal area.

Tummy tuck. Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck removes excess fat and loose skin, and tightens the abdominal muscles. The result is a flatter, firmer tummy that looks great in a bikini or your favorite clothes.

The benefits of a mommy makeover

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of a mommy makeover is that the patient can undergo multiple procedures simultaneously with only one recovery period. Recovery time can range from 2 – 3 weeks, depending on the extent of each procedure. Some of the issues a mommy makeover can address include:

• Droopy or saggy breasts

• Separation of the abdominal muscles

• Loose skin around the abdomen

• Stubborn fat around the waist

Recovery tips

The recovery process can go more smoothly for any procedure when a patient knows what to expect and how to prepare ahead of time. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your mommy makeover.

Your health matters. Patients who are healthy before their surgery are more likely to have a smooth recovery. It’s recommended that you get within 10 pounds of your ideal weight, and avoid alcohol and tobacco products as they can interfere with healing. It is also generally advised that moms wait 6 – 9 months after their last child before having a mommy makeover. Waiting allows a mom's body to fully recover from pregnancy and childbirth before taking on surgical procedures.

Get help. Assistance will be needed for up to a week after surgery. A friend or family member that can help you with routine tasks can make your recovery easier. The recovery process is different for everyone, and finding someone to help with the day-to-day routine will go a long way.

Ready your supplies. All moms must have at least a full week to recuperate and rest. Make sure your home is prepared, as a quick grocery store run will not be on your to-do list. Stock up on groceries, have your medications ready, assign tasks, and create a comfy space with all your favorite things nearby.

Take time off. The experienced, plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery know it can be hard for moms to sit back, relax, and rest regularly, much less make time to recover from surgery. Consider the first two weeks as "me time" and don’t overdo it. Be kind to yourself and listen to your body. Even if you feel better, make sure to proceed with caution. Taking it easy makes for a quicker recovery and will benefit your final results.

Communicate with your doctor. The recovery instructions are your guide to knowing what to do and expect. Following orders to avoid heavy lifting, stay hydrated, avoid the sun, get plenty of rest, and take your medications are essential to the healing process. Follow-up appointments are vital for our plastic surgeons to monitor your progress — they allow our staff to determine how you are healing and make any adjustments that may be required. Keeping to the original post-operative schedule and not skipping appointments will enable us to guide you through the process.

You've done the hard work, and now you want to feel and look great again. Planning ahead of time and knowing what to expect after surgery will make your life easier so you can enjoy the benefits of your mommy makeover. Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA, features a team of plastic surgeons who are extremely knowledgeable in both surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. Their compassion, care, and skill are precisely what moms are looking for when considering a rejuvenating procedure. If you are considering a mommy makeover in Northern Virginia, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons today.