Facts About the Mommy Makeover Procedure

Posted on October 6, 2013 by: Dr. Ronald DeMars

The “Mommy Makeover” is a term commonly used to describe a combination of procedures used to help a woman’s body return to its pre-pregnancy condition. It generally includes a combination of two or three procedures that are done at one time, cutting down on cost and recovery time.

Do you know all the facts about the Mommy Makeover? Read below to find out.

 

How long must a woman wait after giving birth to have a Mommy Makeover surgery?

In general, a woman must wait at minimum six months after giving birth, however it varies for each woman. As abdominal muscles and tissues change and tighten, and breasts change shape and volume in the months post-birth, a doctor must wait until the changes have stopped so he/she can best identify what is needed to be done to accomplish the patient’s goals.

Additionally, all the baby weight gained during pregnancy must be lost, and a woman should have a BMI of 25 or less. She should also have completed breast feeding four months (or longer) prior to the procedure.

For most women, it takes a full year before all the aforementioned changes and requirements are complete.

 

Can you have children after having the Mommy Makeover?

Yes, you can have a normal pregnancy. However, it will alter the results of the surgery and may need to be completed again to re-gain the same (or similar) look. It’s also likely that you will be able to breastfeed, but is not guaranteed.

It is highly advisable to wait to have a Mommy Makeover until you are done having children.

 

What amount of pain can one expect?

Patients will normally be quite sore for about 3-4 days, and most women no longer need pain medications after the first week. Dr. DeMars’ office also offers pain pumps to make patients feel more comfortable during their healing.

 

How long is the recovery period?

If the Mommy Makeover includes a tummy tuck, most patients will need at least two weeks before returning to the majority of daily activities, such as driving, working (at a non-physical job), etc. If you have a more active job, you might need four-six weeks off work. You should also expect to refrain from exercising for at least 8 weeks, with the exception of light walks.

 

What are the most common combinations of procedures in the Mommy Makeover?

Most women have a breast augmentation and a tummy tuck. Occasionally, some women may also require a breast lift and/or liposuction to get their desired result.

 

Does a Mommy Makeover less than having the procedures done separately?

Yes. It costs significantly less and is therefore more efficient financially, but is also more efficient with your time since you will recover from everything at once. Many moms find that the time savings is just as important, if not more important than the financial savings.

 

Does it leave scars?

Yes, but depends on what procedures you have in your Mommy Makeover. With a breast augmentation you will have a small, hardly-noticeable scar around the bottom of the nipple or under the fold of the breast. A tummy tuck usually removes the majority of most stretch marks but will leave a scar in the pubic region that is hidden by bathing suits or underwear.

 

When is the best time to get a Mommy Makeover?

The best time to get a Mommy Makeover is when you are no longer planning on having additional children, and when you have at least two weeks to recover.

Most women opt to get the procedure in the spring months, in preparation for summer clothes and bathingsuit season. Many women also find this to be a calmer time of the year, since the holidays are over and children are still in school.

 

How often does Dr. DeMars do Mommy Makeovers?

Dr. DeMars is highly experienced in Mommy Makeover procedures and performs about 2-4 Mommy Makeovers each month.

 

If you are interested in the Mommy Makeover or have questions, call Dr. DeMars’ office at (503) 253-3458 to schedule your consultation. Please also visit the website here to learn more about Dr. DeMars’ office and staff: www.drdemarsmd.com                .