Mommy Makeover

A Mommy Makeover typically consists of the tummy tuck combined with a breast procedure, as these two areas are most affected by pregnancy and breast feeding; common breast procedures are breast lifts and breast augmentations. Sometimes the breast are not affected so the second procedure could be liposuction of other body areas.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Procedure

It’s the talk of the town during play dates and in car pool lines: new moms want to look better. There are exercise programs, diets and cosmetic procedures customized for post-childbearing women to get back in shape, and all of these things are part of their conversations. But they also have questions about so-called “mommy makeovers.”

If you’re a new mom, you may have a lot of your own questions about mommy makeovers. If so, you’ve come to the right place, because Mark Deutsch, MD, FACS, has the information you’re looking for. Here are his answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the mommy makeover:

Q: What exactly is a mommy makeover?

A “mommy makeover” is not one set operation, but a combination of procedures. Usually, though, a mommy makeover consists of a tummy tuck combined with a breast lift or augmentation, as these two areas are most affected by pregnancy and breast feeding. If the breasts have not been affected, the mommy makeover might consist of a tummy tuck with a liposuction instead. During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through dramatic change. Sagging breasts and loose stomach muscles are resistant to springing back after the child is born, even with diet and exercise. The mommy makeover is an enhancement that improves a woman’s appearance.

Q: How fast is the recovery process?

A: This varies from patient-to-patient, and depending on the procedure that was done. Tummy tuck patients generally can start walking in the neighborhood the day they get home from surgery. Within one week they can usually drive, after a few weeks they can pick up their baby, and within 5 to 6 weeks they can return to the gym to exercise and do heavy lifting. Breast lift and implant patients can walk also when they get home. They can drive once they have stopped taking pain meds, usually within a week after surgery, and resume lifting their baby and exercise at four weeks. If you have a desk job, I would say that 10 days is an adequate amount of time off from work as long as you keep in mind the lifting restriction. Take it easy when starting back to work. Listen to your body.

Q: What makes a tummy tuck that's part of a mommy makeover, different than a tummy tuck for someone who wasn't just pregnant?

Women who have had children are more likely to experience rectus diastasis, a condition where large abdominal muscles separate. This causes a noticeable bulge to form in the middle of the abdomen upon straining. Stretch marks (striae) from the pregnancy can also be visible on the belly. Both of these are addressed and repaired in a “mommy tummy tuck” procedure as part of the mommy makeover.”

Q: How soon after childbirth can a woman get plastic surgery?

I recommend waiting at least 3 to 6 months after giving birth before getting any plastic surgery done on your abdomen or breasts. This will allow for any retained fluid to leave your system and for your hormone levels to return to normal. Giving your body enough time to heal before pursuing plastic surgery will ultimately lead to a safer and more predictable cosmetic result.

Q: Can women still breastfeed after getting a breast lift?

At least 50 percent of women should still be able to breastfeed after undergoing a breast lift procedure. The same applies to those who undergo a breast reduction. There are many techniques that plastic surgeons can use to perform a breast lift. Often, retaining sensation to the nipple and the ability to breastfeed depends on how much breast tissue is left attached to the areolar complex when the nipple is moved to its new position.

Q: How should a woman prepare for her mommy makeover?

Make sure you are eating healthy, nutritious meals, and have a good workout routine. Do the heavy cardio/weights now, as you will have to wait several weeks after surgery before resuming. Since you will be unable to pick up your young children for a few weeks following the procedure, I advise my patients to have childcare set up in advance. Furthermore, for the first few days, you may also need arrange help for yourself at home. To help speed your recovery, take it easy those first few weeks.

Q: How much does a mommy makeover cost?

The pricing for the mommy makeover can vary depending on the breast procedure you are having performed. There is a price range for the mommy makeover from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on the exact procedures you are having done. We are currently offering the “Mommy Makeover Special,” which is the tummy tuck with a second procedure for 15 percent off the second procedure. For additional information including pricing, please use the online contact form to send an e-mail stating which procedures you are interested in, and a Perimeter Plastic Surgery staff member will get back with you within one business day. Dr. Mark Deutsch is available for consultations to all prospective patients, so now is the perfect time to meet with Dr. Deutsch and see if you are the right candidate for a mommy makeover. To learn more about a mommy makeover, you can also visit Dr. Deutsch’s profile on Real Self.