A mommy makeover is a unique and comprehensive plastic surgery treatment designed to address each patient’s aesthetic concerns. It allows the surgeon to enhance multiple areas of the body through a combination of body contouring and breast enhancement procedures.

Many women notice changes in their bodies after pregnancy. This treatment typically includes breast enhancement and abdominal contouring, though the exact procedures depend on the individual needs and goals of each patient. A mommy makeover is usually performed as a single-stage procedure. Since every case is unique, the surgeon works closely with each patient to create a personalized operative plan addressing specific aesthetic concerns.

 

About the Surgery

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes between 4 to 6 hours. It is typically carried out in the following steps:

 

1. Liposuction. Liposuction in a mommy makeover removes excess fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, waist, back, or thighs. This procedure also helps contour and shape these areas for a more refined appearance.

 

2. Breast Lift and Enlargement (if needed). If a breast lift is required, the most common technique involves an anchor-shaped incision:

• A circular incision around the areola

• A vertical incision extending downward from the areola

• An incision along the natural fold under the breast

Once the excess skin is removed, the nipple and areola are repositioned higher. The remaining skin is reshaped to create a more youthful breast contour.

If the patient desires larger breasts, an implant is placed within a pocket created in the breast tissue—partly under the muscle and partly under the gland (dual-plane method). Stitches are typically located around the areola, along the vertical incision, and in the lower crease of the breast.

 

3. Tummy Tuck. An incision is made in the lower abdomen, just above the pubic hairline. In a full tummy tuck, the incision extends from one hipbone to the other.

• The skin and subcutaneous tissue are separated from the muscles up to the lower sternum.

• Excess skin and fat below the belly button are removed.

• The separated abdominal muscles are tightened with special sutures.

• A new opening is created for the belly button, which is then repositioned and sutured into place.

• The incision is closed, and drains are inserted to prevent fluid accumulation.

A special compression garment and bra are placed on after surgery.

 

Post-Surgery Care

• After the surgery, incisions will be covered with surgical dressings, and small drainage tubes may be placed to remove excess fluid.

• The first two postoperative days are usually spent in the clinic. Moderate pain is expected but can be controlled with medication.

• Swelling in the surgical area typically lasts for about six weeks.

• A compression garment and bra should be worn for 8 weeks (22–23 hours per day).

• Lymphatic drainage massage may be recommended to improve recovery and results.

• For the first 4 weeks, patients should move carefully and avoid bending at the waist to prevent wound reopening.

• Strenuous physical activities and sports should be avoided for at least 3 months after surgery.

• The final results become visible after 4 to 6 months once swelling has fully subsided.

Patients can return to work within a few weeks if their job does not involve strenuous movement or heavy physical labor.