There’s no doubt that having a child is a beautiful thing. But the toll it takes on the body isn’t always so beautiful. That’s why more women today are choosing corrective surgical options like a mommy makeover after pregnancy.  Unfortunately, between the demands of a newborn and work responsibilities, many women find they’re unprepared for recovering from your mommy makeover surgery.

Knowing when to ask for help, as well as following your doctor’s instructions, can mean your best chance of a healthy recovery.

What Is a Mommy Makeover?

A Mommy Makeover is a combination of two or more plastic surgeries to address unwanted bodily changes after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

Sometimes referred to as postpartum body contouring, a Mommy Makeover is designed to bring back a sleeker, more youthful silhouette in as little as one day, usually as an outpatient procedure.

What Procedures Does a Mommy Makeover Include?

Your Mommy Makeover will be tailored to your desired outcome and the specific changes you want to make. That means every Mommy Makeover is different.

For instance, a Mommy Makeover can be as simple as a breast lift (mastopexy) and tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). However, many women opt for additional enhancements, which may include:

  • Breast augmentation (augmentation mammaplasty)
  • Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty)
  • Liposuction of the abdomen
  • Labiaplasty
  • Other surgical procedures designed to bring back a silhouette closer to the patient’s pre-pregnancy body 

*Often, procedures performed on the back of the body will take place during a separate session. This makes recovery easier.

How Long Does Recovery From a Mommy Makeover Take?

Because there is such a variety of Mommy Makeover options, your recovery time may not be exactly like everyone else’s. Be prepared to spend at least two weeks resting and recovering from your mommy makeover after your outpatient procedure. But do be aware that recovery could take longer.

A healthy and stress-free recovery can depend on these and other factors:

  • Your health profile pre-surgery (including pre-existing conditions)
  • The number of procedures you have done
  • The placement and extent of your surgical incisions
  • How closely you follow postoperative instructions
  • Whether you smoke (smoking can interfere with your recovery)

Arrange for Help BEFORE Your Procedure

Some patients do too much too soon following a Mommy Makeover. A recovering patient may go back to work or drive too soon, lift heavy objects before they are allowed, or feel they need to run around after any children in the house.

Additionally, women who choose this procedure soon after giving birth have the additional concern of an infant or young child(ren) to take care of. 

That’s why the very best way to predict a smooth recovery is to plan to have help in the house. 

Try one of these options:

  • Ask your spouse, significant other, or a family member to take a week or two off from work. You’re going to need plenty of rest, and household chores won’t wait.
  • Find out about in-home care. This can be an expensive option, so make sure you research this well in advance of your procedure to make sure you can afford it.
  • Hire a professional to come into your home once a day or every other day to perform chores like dishes, laundry, and light cleaning.

How Can You Prepare for Your Recovery Time at Home?

Whether or not you hire help, the first two weeks after your Mommy Makeover will be easier if you have prepared your household in advance. 

Have these steps in place for your best, easiest recovery:

  • Have a bassinet or pack-and-play set up in the bedroom or living room (if you have young children). The hammock area should be above the level of your waist so you don’t need to bend in order to pick up your baby.
  • Arrange for rides for your children to take them to school or after-school activities.
  • Cook or order at least two weeks of main meals if possible. Put these in the freezer in pre-portioned containers.
  • Set up a chair with a table next to it in the main area where you’ll be spending your recovery so whatever you need is within reach.
  • Have a list of phone numbers (or have numbers on speed dial) in case you unexpectedly need help while recovering from your mommy makeover .

Can You Ensure a Faster Recovery From Your Surgery?

MOST WOMEN can expect to take a minimum of two weeks off from work during the recovery process.  

While you can’t guarantee a speedy recovery, there are certain things you can do to encourage a smoother process.

  • Don’t smoke. Smoking increases the risk of post-surgery complications. 
  • Don’t do too much. Even if you feel better, follow your doctor’s instructions on lifting, bending, and exertion for as long as he/she recommends.
  • Eat plenty of nutritious foods, such as vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
  • Ask for help when you need it.
  • Get plenty of quality sleep, including naps whenever possible. 

Try not to push your recovery. Your body needs time to rest in order to heal at its very best. By preparing for your Mommy Makeover surgery in advance, you’ll have all the help you need to feel, and ultimately look, your best.