Mommy Makeover Surgery & Recovery?

Question

I'm 62 yrs old 5'3" and 110lb very healthy. Will the mommy makeover procedure and recovery be easier for me? I have completed an ekg, stress test mammogram & blood work and all was good. My surgery is scheduled for June, any advice for me prior to this procedure?

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. If you are in good health, which you appear to be, you should do well with Mommy make over procedures. There are a lot of preoperative instructions that your surgeon will share with you. Some things I stress on are deep breathing exercises, as well as a good diet and exercise regimen, prior to the procedure. Do follow all of your surgeon’s instructions.  All the best.

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

Everyone heals at their own pace. However , there is a general timeline to give you an idea of what to expect after a major cosmetic surgery like mommy makeover. Most mommy makeover patients need 4-6 weeks to return to most of their daily activities

Samir Hasan, MD · Answer

Great question, assuming you're in good health and you have been medically-cleared for surgery, you should not only be a good candidate to undergo this procedure, but should have a smooth recovery compared to someone that is not very healthy. The surgery and recovery for each patient varies, but in general it is safer if you have optimization and control of any underlying medical issues and a clear post-op/recovery plan in place per your surgeon and recovery team. Good luck with your surgery!

Morad Askari, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your question. Since you're in excellent health and have completed the necessary tests for a smooth mommy makeover surgery. Ensure you’re eating a well-balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and nutrients, and consider taking a multivitamin to support your body during healing. Stay active with light exercise, such as walking, to maintain good circulation and muscle tone. Quit smoking at least a few weeks before surgery, as smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. After the surgery, you will experience some soreness, tightness, and swelling, which are normal, and your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort. Rest is important in the early days after surgery for at least 6-8 weeks. Short, light walks can help promote blood circulation, reduce the risk of blood clots, and speed up recovery. Start with small steps around the house, and gradually increase your activity as directed. Adhere closely to your surgeon’s aftercare instructions, including wearing compression garments, attending follow-up appointments, and caring for incisions to promote proper healing.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! It sounds like you would be a great candidate for a mommy makeover procedure as you're healthy. The healthier an individual is, the better recovery from these elective procedures will be. We would love to meet with you in person or virtually for a consultation to help you reach your goals and create a surgical plan for you!

Christine Fisher, MD, FACS · Answer

Typically the healthier you are going into surgery, the easier you recover, regardless of age.  I've operated on quite a few women in their 60s and 70s who were healthier and had easier recoveries than some patients in their 20s and 30s!  Not to say that a mommy-makeover recovery is easy, though.  The first 2 weeks will be the hardest, then it gets gradually better after that.  You should be able to ease back into normal physical activity at 6 weeks and continue to progress from there.  Leading up to surgery, concentrate on getting a moderate amount of activity, including both stregnth training and cardiovasular activities such as walking.  Also make sure you are eating a healthy diet, focusing on protein. I recommend aiming for at least 100g of protein a day before and after surgery.  Supplementation such as a multi-vitamin, iron (if anemic), collagen, zinc and vitamin c can also help in your recovery.  Best of luck in your healing!

Allyson Deziel, MD · Answer

Recovery after plastic surgery can be easier for patients that are healthy and active at baseline, but there are many factors that can impact your recovery. I recommend following your plastic surgeon's postoperative care instructions to help optimize healing and avoid complications.

Bianca Knoll, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The recovery of a mommy makeover depends on so many things. Patients of great physical health and fitness often do better and recover faster. Nutrition plays an important role, as does mental health and the support a patient receives at home. All of this contributes to patient safety. It seems you have time to prepare yourselft best possible for the upcoming surgery. Discuss it with your plastic surgeon. I am positive the office will appreciate your considerations.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear smile6,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gregory Lakin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on your thorough pre-operative evaluations and good health, you seem to be a good candidate for a mommy makeover procedure. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and being in great health can all contribute to a faster and smoother recovery process. However, having a detailed discussion with your doctor about the specific treatments involved in your mommy makeover is important. Make sure your expectations, goals, and any concerns are communicated. Before the surgery, follow your surgeon's advice regarding medications, vitamins, and quitting smoking. Arrange for support at home during the initial phase of your recovery, and ensure you have the necessary items to create a comfortable recovery space at home. Maintaining a balanced diet, including plenty of nutrient-dense foods and adequate water intake, is important for promoting healing and recovery.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks s much for your question,

A mommy makeover can be a transformative experience, helping you regain confidence and restore your body after the physical changes brought on by pregnancy and childbirth. However, it’s a major surgical procedure with a significant recovery period, so it’s important to be fully informed and prepared. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to explore your options and determine if a mommy makeover is right for you.