How would you rate the pain of a mommy makeover?

Most of my patients find the discomfort less than a C-section as your muscles are not cut, just brought together as needed. Exparel has diminished pain in my patients for up to 3 days. We have patients walking right after surgery. See link for more details.

A lot of my patients relate the recovery as similar to a C-Section or hysterectomy.  The recovery has vastly improved with improved anesthesia techniques, Exparel (No Pain Pumps!) and No Drains!!  

A good combination of medications should keep you comfortable without too many side effects following your mommy makeover.  I like to use several medications so that you target different types of pain receptors and minimize the amount of any specific medication.You will be moving well after a couple of days and back to feeling normal by 2 weeks.Dr Rodger ShorttOakville Plastic SurgeonDirector of Cosmetic Surgery Training &Assistant Clinical Professor,McMaster University

It goes without saying that all patients are different. The most painful operation in a mommy makeover is an abdominoplasty. Most of my patients tell me that it did not hurt as much is a C-section if they had that to compare it to.

Pain after a mommy makeoverWith exparell or pain pumps the pain can be greatly reduced during the first few days.  I use muscle relaxers and anti inflammatories like celebrex. all of these methods help to get up and about early in the healing process.

If you've had a c-section, you can handle a Mommy Makeover. The worst part for most patients is the tummy tuck. In terms of recovery, it really depends on your overall health and how your body heals. But you are looking at 2 weeks of laying low with no heavy activity for 6-8 weeks. Best, Dr. Nazarian

The answer depends on two variables: a patient's individual pain tolerance and the specific surgery involved.  Regarding the latter, a "mommy makeover" can consist of any combination of mini-tummy tuck, full tummy tuck, liposuction, breast lift alone, breast augmentation alone, or breast lift with augmentation among others.  If both abdomen and breasts are being addressed, I advise patients to give themselves a couple weeks off of work and to expect to require pain medicine for 7-14 days before getting sufficient comfort from occasional Tylenol usage.  I encourage you to be up and walking on the first postoperative day though nothing overly strenuous.  Showering is OK by day 3.  Drains typically come out at 1-2 weeks.  Heavy activity is restricted until 6-8 weeks. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to sort out the best operative plan for you and have a discussion with him/her regarding your anticipated recovery.  Best of luck!

Most patients tell me that the augmentation is a pressure sensation as the muscle is stretching over the implant. Some describe it as your milk coming in when you are pregnant. The tummy tuck portion will also be uncomfortable, especially if muscle tightening is performed. Most patients require pain medication for two weeks. Good luck!

Thank you for your question.  In short, it depends.  Everyone has a different pain tolerance, and the mommy makeover can include a wide range of procedures.  I tell my patients that they should be able to resume exercising at about six weeks post-op but making sure that they listen closely to their bodies.  All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

I appreciate your question.

Everyone's pain tolerance is different.  The majority of my patients are off prescription pain medications within the first week to 10 days.  I have everyone up and walking the same day of surgery.  Showering can be done once drains are removed.  Best to discuss with your surgeon as he/she will have their own set of post op instructions for you to follow.



The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!



Dr. Schwartz