James D. McMahan, M.D., F.A.C.S.
(614) 459-0060, Toll Free: (888) LIPOSXN

What is a Mommy Makeover?

Mommy Makeover is a general term used to identify a variety of cosmetic procedures which help a mother who has had several children get her figure back. Cosmetic procedures in a Mommy Makeover may include breast lifts, breast augmentations, liposuction, tummy tucks, and arm lifts. Even though the name suggests that the ideal candidates for this cosmetic procedure package are moms, surgeons recommend this assortment of procedures to any healthy patient who has lost a significant amount of weight.

The risks of surgical procedures typically tend to increase with the number of surgeries performed. However, surgeons do believe that being subjected to two or three procedures at one time may result in a lower risk of complications for patients. Undergoing these two or three procedures separately may, in effect, increase the chances of complications. In addition, a surgeon will also evaluate a patient’s health condition to verify whether he or she has the strength and ability to withstand several surgical procedures under the same anesthetic.

A typical Mommy Makeover would include cosmetic procedures like breast lifts and implants, followed by either a tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck or liposuction. During these procedures, excess fat or skin will be removed and the abdominal muscles will be tightened.

Depending on the number of surgeries performed, the recovery time following a Mommy Makeover tends to vary. If, for example, the Mommy Makeover consisted of a breast lift and liposuction, then the recovery is going to be very quick. Patients will be able to get back to work or normal activities in less than a week. However, if patients undergo more significant makeovers consisting of tummy tucks, then they have to engage only in limited activities for about three or four weeks. All strenuous activities are to be barred for about six weeks.