One of the advantages of choosing to combine multiple procedures in a single operation such as a Mommy Makeover is that you only have to plan for one recovery period. But how long is the recovery after a Mommy Makeover? It depends on several factors.
Because a Mommy Makeover may involve different procedures—typically a combination of cosmetic breast surgery and body contouring procedures—the recovery differs for each patient.
Combining procedures increases the variables involved in knowing what to expect during the recovery because you’ll be recuperating from 2 or more surgical procedures at the same time. I emphasize adapting recovery plans to meet the needs of each patient, especially when it comes to pain management. This becomes even more important when I perform Mommy Makeover surgery.
Each person’s comfort levels or tolerance for pain differs, so providing patients with individualized recovery plans that includes as much information as possible from the start allows them to have smoother, easier recuperation periods.
What Is a Mommy Makeover?
A Mommy Makeover addresses physical changes that occur during and after pregnancy, or due to the natural aging process.
Parenthood is a wonderful part of life, but childbearing can have some adverse effects on a woman’s body. A Mommy Makeover can address separated abdominal muscles, stretch marks, depleted breast volume and a number of other effects of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The surgery typically includes:
In addition to the procedures performed during a Mommy Makeover, how quickly a patient bounces back after the surgery also depends on the patient’s age, lifestyle and health history.
Patients who follow their post-care instructions tend to have smoother and faster recoveries. It helps when they know that the instructions are tailored to their needs.
Is a Mommy Makeover worth the recovery time? You can judge for yourself by browsing before and after photos of my patients.
Mommy Makeover Recovery Timeline
Even though your specific recovery will be unique, there is a general timeline that can give you an idea of what to expect.
A tummy tuck requires the most recovery time and causes the most discomfort, which can be managed with prescription pain medication.
Day of surgery: Most patients return home on the day of their surgery. You’ll need help getting into and out of bed, having meals brought to you, and with child care if you have young children at home. It’s important to get plenty of rest, but you should also take brief walks around the house during your initial recovery phase to boost circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
First 2 weeks after surgery: Swelling and bruising peaks during the first week after the surgery, but you should expect to feel sore for at least 2 weeks—possibly more. It will take at least 7 days before you can stand upright. Some patients are able to return to non-strenuous work after 2 weeks.
3 weeks: You’ll continue wearing the specialized compression garment for at least 3 weeks and possibly more.
6 weeks: At this point, you’ll feel back to normal and can resume strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
3 to 5 months: Residual swelling continues to resolve.
6 months: You’ll see the final results of the procedure.
If you would like to learn more about Mommy Makeover surgery, use the online form to request a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Bogdan, a board-certified plastic surgeon. Or, call his office at (817) 442-1236 to schedule your appointment.