Having children can be one of the most fulfilling accomplishments of your life. Unfortunately, sometimes the changes a woman’s body goes through during pregnancy and childbirth can have unwanted effects. This can have a negative impact on anyone’s confidence. If your body has gone through lasting changes after pregnancy that can’t seem to be fixed with diet and exercise, then you may be considering a mommy makeover surgery.

A mommy makeover surgery is designed to restore parts of the body that were naturally altered by pregnancy and childbirth. The combination of procedures may include breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, tummy tuck, or liposuction. At Howland Plastic Surgery, we provide a procedure plan based on your individual needs. Dr. Howland has years of experience and will help you to determine the mommy makeover that’s best for you.

If you’re considering this surgery, here are 10 things you should know before you make your decision.

1. It usually includes more than one procedure

As mentioned, the surgery can incorporate multiple procedures that mainly focus on the breasts and abdomen. Depending on your needs, the type of surgery done in these areas will vary. For example, if you feel that your breasts have begun to sag due to breastfeeding, your doctor may go with a breast lift for your surgery.

2. It’s possible to add on other procedures

While the focus of a mommy makeover is usually on the breasts and abdomen, it does not have to always be limited to those areas. If you feel like you want to improve on other aspects of your body that have been impacted by childbirth, then your doctor will work with you to provide the best options available.

3. The length of the procedure varies

Depending on which procedures you end up choosing, the length of the surgery will vary. On average, it takes about four and a half to five and a half hours to complete.

4. Achieve a healthy weight before the procedure

Just like with any surgery, it’s best to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine before undergoing a procedure. This will help you heal faster, as well as reduce the risk of complications. To ensure positive results, achieving your desired weight beforehand will be beneficial to the outcome of your procedure.

5. Be sure that you’re done having children

Even though you may be eager to get your confidence back, it’s best to hold off on a mommy makeover until you are positive that you won’t have any more kids. Choosing to have another child after undergoing these procedures can undo your previous results.

6.  You’ll get to go home soon after it’s completed

With the advancements and precision of these types of procedures, patients are able to spend less time waiting in the recovery room. You’ll be able to head home not long after your surgery, giving you a more comfortable and familiar space to heal.

7. Recovery time is at least two weeks

After a mommy makeover, it will take at least two weeks to get back to completing daily tasks independently and with little discomfort. Most patients experience pain for the first week, but it should subside after 7-10 days. It will take about a month to resume full movement and routines.

8. Choose a time that works best for you

Not every mother’s schedule is the same. When planning for a mommy makeover surgery, make sure it’s during a time when you have a more open schedule. You may not be able to take care of your kids as well as you’d like to during your recovery. It’s important to ask for help from a spouse, family member, or friend to help you take care of your children and other tasks while you heal.

9. The pain is very manageable

The thought of going through an invasive surgical procedure can be daunting, but with the right surgeon and resources the pain is very manageable. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication for you after the surgery, and give you instructions for how to ensure the best possible recovery process.

10. Schedule a consultation

Before you finalize the procedures you think you’ll want in your mommy makeover surgery, it’s best to talk with your doctor to make sure you have all the information and resources you need. During a consultation, your doctor will help you set expectations for the process and recovery time. They will also determine what procedures are best suited for you and whether or not  you’re in good enough health to move forward with the surgery.

Those who are interested in a mommy makeover surgery can set up an appointment with Dr. Howland. To schedule a consultation, contact our office today!