What is recovery like with a mommy makeover?

Mommy makeover is a term that implies some surgery on the breast, some surgery on the tummy.

The mommy makeover one patient get may be a simple scar revision of their  C-section and a small breast implant; another patient might need a full breast reconstruction with a full tummy tuck and flank plasty.  

Some patients are young and bounce back, others are older and take longer to recover.

So the recovery is quite varied.  For an 'average' mommy makeover, patients can usually drive by 1 week, walk five miles on a flat surface by two weeks, and run by 4 weeks.  Hard workouts generally start at around 6 weeks.

Pain pumps have dramatically altered the recovery from abdominal and breast surgery. They reduce pain without sedating patients. Their safety profile is also much higher than in the past, with no need for Marcaine, a long acting anesthetic that has been associated with heart block in some patients.

The difference between patients who go home after their surgery and those who stay in an aftercare with pain pumps is night and day.

It is actually possible to have a pain pump for both the breasts and the tummy tuck at the same time.

Also, a night or two in an aftercare facility also helps recovery.

Small children less than two years of age are the biggest impediment to an easy recovery. It is often nice to get some help if kids less than 2 years old are at home.

All in all, the satisfaction rate for an expertly performed breast surgery and tummy tuck, customized to the patient's needs, is very high.

Patients should not over schedule during their recovery period.  It is a time for recovery and healing.

 

A mommy makeover typically involves a combination of cosmetic procedures designed to address changes in a woman's body that occur due to pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Common procedures included in a mommy makeover may include breast augmentation or lift, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), liposuction, and sometimes other body contouring procedures.Recovery from a mommy makeover can vary based on the specific procedures performed, individual patient factors, and the plastic surgeon's techniques. However, here are some general aspects of the recovery process:1. Initial Recovery Period:• The first few days after surgery are crucial for initial healing. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort during this time.• Pain medication prescribed by the plastic surgeon is typically used to manage postoperative pain.2. Restrictions on Activities:• Patients are often advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercises for several weeks to allow the body to heal properly.• Some activities, such as bending and twisting, may be restricted initially to avoid strain on the surgical areas.3. Compression Garments:• Patients may be required to wear compression garments, especially after procedures like tummy tuck or liposuction, to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.4. Follow-up Appointments:• Regular follow-up appointments with the plastic surgeon are essential to monitor the healing progress and address any concerns.5. Return to Normal Activities:• The timeline for returning to normal activities varies but may take several weeks. Full recovery, including the resolution of swelling and final results, may take several months.6. Scarring:• Scarring is a natural part of any surgical procedure. The appearance of scars will evolve over time, and plastic surgeons may provide instructions on scar care to help minimize their visibility.7. Emotional Recovery:• Emotional recovery is also an important aspect. Some patients may experience a range of emotions, and it's essential to have realistic expectations and be patient with the healing process.It's crucial to follow the specific postoperative care instructions provided by the plastic surgeon. Every individual heals differently, so the recovery experience can vary. It's essential to communicate openly with the plastic surgeon about any concerns or questions during the recovery process. Overall, a mommy makeover can have a transformative effect on a person's body, but proper care and adherence to postoperative guidelines are essential for a successful outcome.

Recovery after a mommy makeover involves different stages and varies from person to person. Generally, the first few days are the most uncomfortable, with some patients experiencing soreness and tightness in the chest and abdomen. Medications will be provided to help manage the pain, and while they may cause some drowsiness, you should not feel comatose. After a few days, most patients can begin to walk and perform light activities. However, you will need to avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities for a few weeks. It is essential to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. With regards to your children, it is important to communicate with them about your recovery process and limitations, so they understand why you may not be able to do certain activities. I would recommend that you plan for at least 3-4 weeks of limited activity and 6-8 weeks for full activity. Thank you for your question, and best of luck with your mommy makeover!

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.