Deciding When to Have a Mommy Makeover
As with any elective procedure, determining the right time to have a mommy makeover surgery is largely a personal decision that should be based on a number of factors. In this post we outline why someone may want to consider mommy makeover surgery, as well as some of the things to consider when trying to determine when the right time is for you.
About the Procedure
Mommy makeover is a combination of breast and body contouring procedures that aim to restore a woman’s body after pregnancy. The procedure can include breast lift, breast augmentation, breast reduction, liposuction, tummy tuck and scar revision.
When to Consider a Mommy Makeover
Mommy makeover surgery can address many of the physical changes that arise after pregnancy. You may want to consider mommy makeover surgery if you have:
- Stubborn fat in areas of the body such as the abdomen, waist, back bra roll, and hips
- Breasts that are drooping
- Breasts that are deflated as a result of breastfeeding
- Asymmetrical breasts
- Excessively large breasts
- Excess abdominal skin/fat
- Stretched or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
- Stretch marks
Determining the Right Time for Mommy Makeover
Many women consider a mommy makeover after childbirth, and some even begin thinking about the procedure while still pregnant. To determine the right time for a mommy makeover, women should consider the following factors.
1. Family Planning
In general, it is best to wait until you are done having children before undergoing the types of procedures typically included in mommy makeovers. These procedures include, tummy tuck, breast lift, liposuction, breast augmentation, and body lift surgery.
2. Childbirth Recovery
You must be fully recovered from childbirth before undergoing a mommy makeover. For many women, that means waiting at least six months after giving birth and stopping breastfeeding, to make sure your body has adequately recovered from the childbirth process and will heal well after surgery.
3. Breast Feeding
If you are considering breast surgery with your mommy makeover, you should wait several months after you are finished breastfeeding before having surgery. This time allows the breasts to return to a stable size and shape before undergoing surgery.
You also should be finished with breastfeeding if you are considering certain non-surgical treatments, such as injectables.
4. Lifestyle Planning
Lifting anything over 3 lbs for the first few weeks after mommy makeover surgery should be avoided. This means you may need to make special arrangements for additional help with childcare during this period, especially if you have very young children.
Conclusion
Timing mommy makeover surgery is an important decision that must factor in family, childbirth recovery, breastfeeding, and lifestyle considerations. With proper planning and expectation setting, the procedure will help you look and feel your best after childbirth.
Interested in Mommy Makeover?
Dr. Mahmood specializes in plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery procedures such as mommy makeover. Contact Dr. Mahmood to learn more about mommy makeover surgery and determine if the procedure is right for you.
Dr. Mahmood is a board certified, double Ivy League-trained plastic surgeon practicing in Union Square, NYC.
