If you’re considering a mommy makeover but hesitate because you’re worried about the recovery, you’re not alone. Moms typically put others’ needs above their own, and setting aside time for yourself can be challenging. A mommy makeover is a great way to boost your appearance and self-esteem, but the recovery requires adequate downtime. Knowing what to expect and planning your recovery can ease your concerns and smooth your healing process.
Even though our surgeons customize mommy makeover surgery for each patient, virtually all of them include a tummy tuck, liposuction, and cosmetic breast surgery such as a breast lift with or without implants. Your recovery is unique, depending on the extent of your procedure and how fast you normally heal, but following the tips below will help you recover comfortably and efficiently.
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- Prepare in advance: Timing is important. Ensure you schedule your mommy makeover when you have plenty of time for rest and recovery. If you have school-aged children, that may mean during the summer. The first few weeks of recovery require plenty of rest, and you need to avoid lifting anything substantial—such as small children. Once your surgery date nears, fill your prescriptions ahead of time, arrange for support from family or friends, and freeze meals you can reheat while you’re healing.
- Rely on others: Moms are often the family’s go-to for support. Now is the time to ask for and accept help so you can rest. Hire a babysitter for young children, or consider getting a house cleaner or someone else to help out with daily chores.
- Follow your doctor’s orders: Your surgeon provides detailed post-op instructions to help your recovery go as smoothly as possible and maximize your results. Wear your compression garment to minimize swelling and avoid straining your incisions. Take prescription medications as instructed to keep comfortable and attend all follow-up appointments. For the first few weeks, sleep on your back with your head and chest elevated to prevent fluid buildup.
- Schedule postop lymphatic massage: A favorite of tummy tuck and liposuction patients, lymphatic massage following your mommy makeover procedure encourages the flow of lymph fluids throughout your body, decreasing swelling and speeding up your natural healing process.
- Keep moving: This may sound counterintuitive considering the emphasis on getting plenty of rest, but it’s important to take brief walks around the house starting the day after your surgery. This boosts circulation and reduces the risk of blood clots. You’ll need to walk hunched over for the first week or two. It will probably be 6 weeks before you can resume light exercises. Listen to your body so you don’t overdo it.
- Be patient: It’s natural to want to get back to your normal activities as soon as possible, especially if you typically lead an active lifestyle. However, it’s important to trust the healing process and recognize that full recovery can take up to 8 weeks. Don’t worry; the results will be worth waiting for!
Take the Next Step
You can meet with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons to discuss mommy makeover surgery by requesting a consultation using the online form or calling our office at (310) 784-0644 to schedule an appointment.
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