What is a Mommy Makeover?

A Guide to Cosmetic Surgery After Pregnancy

If you’re a new mom, the post-baby glow you’ve heard so much about has been replaced with dark circles, exhaustion and, perhaps, a few new rolls. 

And while motherhood is incredibly rewarding, it can often feel like it’s taken its toll on your body — both internally and externally. If you’re looking to regain your pre-baby figure, it might be time to consider a mommy makeover. 

This comprehensive guide will take you through what a mommy makeover is, what procedures are typically included in one, and whether or not it’s right for you. 

Quick Definition

A mommy makeover is a combination of cosmetic surgery procedures that can include liposuction, breast augmentation or breast lift, tummy tuck, and various other surgeries. It is designed to help mothers restore their pre-baby bodies after childbirth.

What is a Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover is a combination of plastic surgery procedures that are designed to help restore the body to its pre-pregnancy appearance. Most women opt for surgery after having children because of persistent changes that cannot be reversed by dieting and exercising alone. 

Common post-pregnancy issues like excess skin, weakened abdominal muscles, and remaining pockets of fat can all be addressed with a mommy makeover.

Those who wish to undergo this kind of surgery should weigh the risks of such procedures carefully before deciding. While most women have had positive outcomes with their mommy makeovers, there are still potential side effects that should be considered before undergoing any type of surgery. 

Possible risks include infection, hematoma, and poor scarring along incision sites. That being said, the overall risk is minimal with experienced surgeons, particularly if they specialize in cosmetic surgery.

In addition to considering safety factors, thought needs to be placed into whether or not an individual is ready for the psychological aspect of such an operation. Following plastic surgery, it can take a few weeks or even months for the body to heal completely before you begin to see the desired results. 

Since this period generally consists of lots of downtime for recovery, it is important that patients understand in advance what they can and cannot do after completing their procedures.

Ultimately, many people experience tremendous satisfaction upon returning to their familiar figure after having kids. 

At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to considering these surgeries—it simply comes down to self-reflection and deciding which option works best for each person’s own unique lifestyle and needs. With that in mind, let’s dive into understanding more about the different parts and components involved in this popular procedure.

Parts of the Procedure

The desired outcome of a Mommy Makeover process varies from patient to patient; however, the procedure itself typically consists of addressing two or three procedures at the same time. The most common procedure is a combination of liposuction, an abdominoplasty, and/or breast surgery.

Liposuction involves hiding small incisions and using a suction device to remove undesirable areas of fat. This can be used to contour areas of the body like the thighs, hips, and abdomen, as well as eliminate resistant fat pockets that are difficult to eliminate with diet and exercise alone.

An abdominoplasty (often referred to as “a tummy tuck”) involves creating an incision from hip to hip, just above the pubic area. Excess fat is removed from the abdominal area, and excess skin on the stomach is removed and tightened. Abdominal muscles are tightened at the same time which extends the benefits of abdominoplasty surgery. 

Breast Surgery (such as a breast augmentation, breast lift or both) is implemented depending on if patients have noticed changes in their breasts due to pregnancy, such as deflated appearance or sagging that exercise is unable to improve.

Breast augmentation usually involves adding a breast implant or transferred fat, while a breast lift involves the removal of excess skin before tightening and reshaping breasts.

Numerous studies have proven that with qualified surgeons, qualified anesthesiologist, and proper care following their procedure, patients have been highly satisfied with the results they have achieved with their Mommy Makeover.

With careful consideration and planning ahead of time, women can regain their confidence levels by utilizing these available options safely. Moving forward, we will discuss why women should consider undergoing this procedure for themselves for physical and emotional benefits.

• According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, since 2005, there has been an 85% increase in the number of ‘mommy makeover’ procedures performed across the United States.
• Of the “mommy makeovers” performed in 2018, breast augmentation was the most common procedure (nearly 42%), with tummy tucks at nearly 20%.
• A survey from 2019 found that most patients who underwent a “mommy makeover” experienced improved self-esteem, better body image, and more confidence in their physical appearance.

Key Points to Know

A Mommy Makeover is a combination of procedures that includes liposuction, abdominoplasty and/or breast surgery. It can reduce fat pockets and post-pregnancy sagging skin in the arms, stomach and breasts. Numerous studies have shown that a properly performed Mommy Makeover can be extremely effective in restoring confidence and self-esteem. 

Benefits of a Mommy Makeover

A Mommy Makeover is a tailored combination of cosmetic surgical procedures designed to restore and improve a woman’s figure to its pre-pregnancy state. As such, there are many potential benefits associated with electing to have a Mommy Makeover.

Some of the primary physical benefits include improved abdominal shape and strength, a flatter stomach, and shapelier breasts. On average, patients can expect to regain lost volume in their breasts, reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and potentially even reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Electing to have a Mommy Makeover can offer many tangible and intangible benefits, including improved physical shape and strength as well as enhanced self-confidence and a greater sense of overall body satisfaction. Feeling good about oneself has its own rewards which, however small they may seem, can lead to great strides in both one’s physical health and emotional wellbeing.

In a recent study conducted by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), 87% of women surveyed rated their satisfaction with their post-op body image as either “very satisfied” or “satisfied” following cosmetic surgery after pregnancy. Furthermore, 94% reported that they would recommend the procedure to other mothers in similar situations.

Some experts argue that women should wait until after finishing childbirth before having this type of cosmetic surgery as it allows them ample time to recover from the stressors and discomfort associated with giving birth. However, others suggest it is perfectly safe for women who have recently given birth to opt for Mommy Makeover immediately if desired. 

Ultimately, it is up to the individual patient to decide whether or not they are ready for elective cosmetic surgery after childbirth based on their own personal preferences, medical history, and recovery timeline.

Improved Body Image and Self-Confidence

A Mommy Makeover offers women the chance to regain pre-baby body confidence. Statistics show that a fifth of pregnant women feel unattractive during and after childbirth, and one in six is unhappy with their body image postpartum. This can have a deep effect on a woman’s self-confidence. 

By reshaping their body and restoring the curves lost during pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight loss, many mothers report they feel increased self-confidence and improved personal satisfaction with their appearance after undergoing Mommy Makeover surgery.

When discussing a Mommy Makeover with your doctor, it is important to be clear about expectations and realistic goals. The most successful outcome comes from clearly defined outcomes discussed at the initial appointment, and postoperative instructions followed diligently.

Age-Appropriate Procedures

When considering a mommy makeover after pregnancy, age is an important factor to consider. 

Plastic surgery can have different effects on the body depending on a person’s age. Age-appropriate procedures may not only provide better results but can be safer given the changes the body experiences as we age.

On one hand, some argue that any form of plastic surgery should be avoided if possible due to health risks and other potential complications. After all, human bodies are complex, and no two people respond to treatment in the same way.
For those who are unable to regain their body shape through diet and exercise alone, plastic surgery can be an effective solution provided proper age-appropriate measures are followed.

So when it comes to mommy makeovers and age-appropriate procedures, there must be a balance between providing aesthetic satisfaction and ensuring safety before deciding if plastic surgery is right for you. As long as this balance is met and practiced responsibly, there are many benefits mothers can gain from these kinds of surgeries beyond just physical appearance, things like improved body image and self-confidence. 

Considering Your Age

When considering a Mommy Makeover, age should be taken into consideration. Women looking to have procedures done after pregnancy may find difficulty in weighing the benefits between their current age and the desired results. 

Women in their 20s and 30s may have different considerations than those in their 40s and 50s, such as risks and recovery time. Younger women may be able to achieve greater results with fewer risks, while older women may have longer recovery times and increased risk due to advanced aging.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to considering what procedures are suitable for your needs after pregnancy. Ultimately, this decision should be made by you and your surgeon based on your individual body needs.

When it comes to elective surgery like Mommy Makeover, age is one factor that should be considered when evaluating whether it’s the right choice for you. Discussing possible risks, healing times, and results with your board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to finding the best procedure for you, regardless of age. Doing so can help ensure that you are getting the safest, most successful outcome that best matches your individual expectations and goals.

As you make the important decision regarding a Mommy Makeover, it’s important to weigh all the factors and carefully consider the potential pros and cons of cosmetic surgery.

Pros and Cons of a Mommy Makeover

A mommy makeover, or multiple cosmetic procedures that are used to address concerns related to pregnancy, is a popular option for many women after they have had children. While the decision to undergo any type of cosmetic surgery should not be taken lightly, understanding the pros and cons before making a decision can help mothers decide if this type of procedure is right for them.

Pros

A major pro of a mommy makeover is that it can return women to their pre-pregnancy body. The changes in the body that result from carrying and delivering a baby can often be difficult to correct through diet and exercise alone. A mommy makeover can help facilitate such changes, restoring and improving a woman’s curves as they were prior to pregnancy, reducing the appearance of stretch marks and loose skin that often accompanies pregnancy and childbirth. 

Furthermore, depending on the type of procedure performed, moms may experience improved body shape, better-functioning muscles and ligaments in the abdomen, perkier breasts (including reduction), smaller waistline/flatter stomach, and increased self-confidence due to a more youthful-looking appearance all around.

Cons

There are some drawbacks associated with getting a mommy makeover as well. For starters, there will likely be an extended recovery period following the procedure, which can be both inconvenient and uncomfortable at times, depending on how extensive the surgery is. 

Cost is also something to consider when choosing to have a mommy makeover; most insurance companies will not cover this type of elective procedure, so costs are considered out-of-pocket or via financing options.

Regardless of age, when considering having a mommy makeover it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making any decisions. Women should discuss the possible risks with their doctor while still keeping their desired outcome in mind in order to determine if this type of procedure is indeed right for them.

Answers to Common Questions

What’s included in a mommy makeover?

A mommy makeover typically includes a combination of cosmetic surgeries such as breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction, and sometimes even vaginal rejuvenation or labiaplasty. These procedures aim to restore the body to its pre-pregnancy shape and tone while enhancing the features affected by pregnancy, such as the breasts and abdomen. 

Breast augmentation can restore lost volume in the breasts after giving birth; a breast lift can reshape them and address sagging; a tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat around the midsection; and liposuction reduces stubborn fat deposits around the body. 

In some cases, patients may opt for vaginal rejuvenation (or vaginoplasty) to address weakened pelvic muscles or lack of sensation in the vagina caused by delivery. Labiaplasty can also be used to reduce enlarged  or droopy labia. Each procedure can bring dramatic results when performed together as part of what is included in a mommy makeover.

What are the risks associated with a mommy makeover?

When considering whether to get a mommy makeover, it is important to understand not just the potential benefits but also the risks associated with the surgery. Some of the risks associated with a mommy makeover include infection, excessive bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, nerve damage and fluid accumulation. All surgical procedures carry risk, even when performed by experienced plastic surgeons. It is always recommended that you research the specific procedure you want and speak to your doctor to ensure it is safe for you and discuss any potential complications or risks. 

In addition to these direct physical risks, there are costs associated with this type of surgery. Insurance often does not cover cosmetic procedures, so patients should know the potential costs before proceeding with a mommy makeover. As with any medical procedure, it is important to weigh the potential benefits versus the risks when deciding if a mommy makeover is right for you.

What are the benefits of getting a mommy makeover?

Mommy makeovers offer numerous physical and emotional benefits for mothers who want to restore their pre-pregnancy figure. The most apparent benefit is a dramatic improvement in body shape and overall aesthetic appearance. Patented procedures such as liposuction, breast lifts, and tummy tucks can drastically reduce unwanted fat and skin, and provide optimal contour of the body while also commemorating the birth of a child or children.

A mommy makeover can also have psychological benefits. Mothers may feel increased confidence in their body image and self-esteem after the procedure. This improved sense of satisfaction can translate into more positive attitudes towards parenting and life overall. Research has even suggested that improved physical health could lead to more patience and better quality of sleep resulting from fewer aches and pains due to excess weight or skin.

Given the greater opportunities available to women today, those undergoing mommy makeovers no longer have to worry about permanent reminders of their pregnancies. With one simple procedure, they can look and feel like they did before pregnancy while still taking pride in having a family!