Ask Dr. Elliott: Understanding Mommy Makeover Surgery
In recent years, plastic surgery combinations like the mommy makeover have become more and more common. This makes sense, as combining multiple cosmetic procedures into one surgery can provide a wealth of unique benefits including more significant aesthetic results and less overall cost and recovery time. However, not everyone fully understands what goes into a procedure like mommy makeover surgery and whether or not they would personally benefit from this approach to plastic surgery. This is why I wanted to answer some questions for patients about what they can expect from mommy makeover surgery.
Question #1: How can I prepare for a mommy makeover consultation?
The pre-surgery consultation appointment before a mommy makeover is the time to get better acquainted with your surgery as well as the plastic surgeon who will be performing it. Due to the customizable nature of the mommy makeover, it’s especially important to be diligent and proactive in the lead-up to your consult and make the most of your appointment time. I recommend writing down your specific aesthetics concerns and most pressing questions before the appointment to make sure they are addressed during your mommy makeover consultation.
Question #2: When is the best time to undergo a mommy makeover?
This is a personal choice. The “best” time is whenever is right for your specific needs and circumstances. I do caution my mommy makeover patients to wait until they are finished having children before undergoing their surgery. Becoming pregnant can negatively impact the results of the surgery and create the need for additional cosmetic procedures down the road. Additionally, I also advise women to wait at least six months after childbirth and breastfeeding to undergo a mommy makeover. Doing so will allow the body the time it needs to properly heal and stabilize after such dramatic changes.
Question #3: When can I exercise again following my mommy makeover?
Every patient recovers differently, however, it’s best to be patient and cautious when exercising after a mommy makeover. Performing strenuous physical activity like aerobic exercise too soon can negatively affect the results of the procedure. While some people may be able to enjoy lighter exercise after just two or three weeks of recovery, I recommend waiting between a month and six weeks before beginning any more vigorous physical activity including running and heavy lifting.
The most important thing to do when planning for a mommy makeover is to find an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to perform your procedure. In my experience, patients are incredibly happy with the long-term body contouring results they are able to achieve with mommy makeover surgery. For more information about the mommy makeover or if you would like to schedule an in-person consultation appointment, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can also follow me on Facebook for additional plastic surgery news, tips, and much more.