Moms-to-be get inundated with advice about what to expect while they’re expecting. But many women aren’t prepared to handle the changes their bodies endure post-pregnancy and childbirth. A mommy makeover surgery can be highly beneficial because it allows women to address issues like sagging breasts, loose skin, and unwanted fat during a single procedure with only one price tag and recovery window.
The best thing about a Mommy Makeover is that it’s fully customizable. The procedure may include a wide variety of options, including abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), mastopexy (breast lift), breast augmentation, brachioplasty (arm lift), liposuction, and in certain cases, even a facelift and fat transfer. This procedure is uniquely tailored to align with each patient’s needs, desires, and goals, part of the reason why it is one of Dr. McNemar’s favorites to perform. The fall season is an excellent time to consider a mommy makeover, and this is because the recovery period typically involves limited physical activity. With children back in school, moms can better focus on their healing, making it easier to adhere to recommendations for rest and recovery.
Having a good understanding of your mommy makeover recovery timeline before you undergo your procedure can empower you to have a better, smoother experience. To help set you up for success, we’ll be sharing what to expect from your mommy makeover recovery week by week as well as helpful mommy makeover recovery tips.
Preparing for Your Mommy Makeover
Preparation is vital when it comes to your mommy makeover. Remember, this is a multi-faceted surgery that requires ample rest and downtime. We encourage you to prep as much as possible so that you can prioritize rest and healing after surgery. Here’s what you can do before surgery to make your recovery easier:
- Purchase mommy makeover recovery supplies such as compression garments, loose, comfortable clothing, and toiletries. Prefill prescriptions, buy groceries, and stock your freezer and pantry with healthy meals and snacks. Do your best to set up a quiet, comfortable place within your home dedicated to your healing and recovery.
- Hang up your supermom cape and surround yourself with a support team to pitch in with household and caregiving duties. If necessary, speak with your employer and coworkers about how specific responsibilities will be handled during your absence.
- Get healthy! Maintain your weight, stay hydrated, and eat a nutritious, healthy diet to ensure you’re in peak shape heading into your procedure. Also, limit alcohol and abstain from smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery.
Mommy Makeover Recovery Timeline
A typical mommy makeover surgery may include a breast augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, or other tightening and contouring treatments. How long is mommy makeover recovery? It will vary based on your personalized combination of procedures and individual healing rate. However, here’s a general overview of what most patients can expect week by week as they recover:
1 to 2 Weeks Post-Surgery
After your procedure, you must follow your post-op instructions and get plenty of rest. You will need to wear compression garments to minimize swelling, and you may have surgical drains in place until your follow-up visit. Bandages and dressings are typically removed within 72 hours.
As you prioritize rest, taking short walks periodically is essential to boost circulation and prevent blood clots. If your procedure includes a tummy tuck, you will need to wear an abdominal binder, and you will have additional bending and standing restrictions.
3 to 4 Weeks Post-Surgery
Most patients are permitted to resume their daily activities at this point, including driving and returning to work. Continue to avoid strenuous activities. It is normal to have swelling and numbness for several months. Even though you are feeling better, don’t be tempted to overdo it!
4 to 6 Weeks Post-Surgery
By now, most patients feel “back to themselves,” and you should be able to resume workouts and most regular activities. Your incisions have closed, and you can begin appreciating the results of your mommy makeover.
7 to 8 Weeks and Beyond…
As you show off your mommy makeover results, remember that scars will gradually fade, and any residual swelling will also subside. Allow up to 12 months to see your final results.
Mommy Makeover Recovery Tips
Just as you gave your body time to recover following childbirth, give yourself grace as you recover from mommy makeover surgery. Remember that doing too much, too soon, can jeopardize your healing, recovery, and results. These tips can help ease your experience:
Keep Moving
While rest remains paramount during your recovery window, taking short walks aids circulation and prevents other complications. Regular, light activity can also help boost your spirits, as it is common to experience feelings of isolation as you “lay low” during recovery.
Sleep Safely and Soundly
Getting a good night’s sleep becomes even more crucial following surgery. Studies show that sleep helps your immune system and stimulates healing by triggering the release of hormones that encourage tissue growth and repair. Following surgery, the best and safest way to sleep is on your back with your head and shoulders slightly elevated. This position minimizes swelling and discomfort while directing blood flow throughout the body.
Have Patience
It’s essential to follow your aftercare protocol to a tee! While you may feel better quickly, you risk opening sutures and delaying healing if you resume activities too quickly. If you trust the healing process—and your surgeon—your patience will pay off as you watch your body gradually heal and transform.
Your mommy makeover recovery can be seamless if you know what to expect and plan accordingly. Are you ready to regain your body and self-confidence with a mommy makeover surgery? Please use our online form to request a consultation or call us at (209) 834-0626 to schedule an appointment.
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