Mommy Makeovers: All You Need to Know
Mommy makeovers have gained significant popularity over the past decade. However, as they involve multiple major surgeries simultaneously, preparing for one can be quite intimidating. I had my daughter in 2019 and noticed various changes in my body since then. After a cesarean section, I have a persistent lower belly bulge, and after breastfeeding and weight fluctuations, my breasts have changed. Having no prior plastic surgery experience, the idea of a mommy makeover was initially scary, but my desire for breast enhancement led me to start the process. My first step was researching local doctors and looking at their before and after photos and reviews.
I chose to have my first surgery consultation with Dr. Adam Schaffner, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City. Specializing in work for mothers, he has excellent reviews on multiple platforms. He spent over an hour discussing my goals, answering my questions, and presenting my options. We talked about potential procedures like a breast lift with implants, a possible tummy tuck and/or liposuction, and recovery times. I changed into a gown for a more in-depth discussion, and he did a 3D scan of my breasts. I could also touch and try different implant sizes.
Although a common mommy makeover often combines breast augmentation and a Tummy tuck, each patient has a unique postpartum body and wish list. Dr. Schaffner explains that it can include various procedures to reverse pregnancy-related body changes. If you're interested, keep reading to learn what to ask your doctor during the consultation.
1. Am I a suitable candidate for a mommy makeover?
Dr. Ari Hoschander, a plastic surgeon in Rockville Centre, New York, says a good candidate isn't planning to have more children. Besides, you should wait at least six months to a year after childbirth and/or breastfeeding for your body to stabilize. Dr. Mark Mofid, from La Jolla, California, adds that a good candidate should be in overall good health, at or near the ideal body weight, and have no underlying medical conditions that could increase surgical risks. The crucial step is consulting a specialized plastic surgeon who will assess your needs and discuss the best approach. Also, you must be a non-smoker before the surgery.
2. Do I need to lose weight before the procedure?
Many doctors prefer you to be not only at or near your goal weight but also at a stable weight. This means surgery isn't immediate after reaching a certain weight. You need to have established healthy eating and exercise habits and maintained your desired weight for some time. Some doctors have BMI cutoffs, so ask if there's a specific weight requirement or if it's up to you. Dr. Hoschander says better results come when you're closer to your desired weight and recommends waiting at least six months after childbirth for your body to heal and adjust. Remember, significant weight changes can affect the outcome. Mommy makeovers aim to address pregnancy-related changes like sagging skin and muscle separation, not for weight loss. Liposuction improves shape by removing targeted fat but doesn't lead to significant weight reduction.
3. How many surgeries can I have at once?
This depends on the individual. Dr. Schaffner says the number of procedures at once depends on the patient's health and the length of each. Generally, elective cosmetic surgery under anesthesia is limited to six hours, but longer periods can be safe in some cases. A traditional mommy makeover typically combines a breast lift with or without an implant and a Tummy tuck. In my case, Dr. Schaffner suggested staggering the procedures as doing both simultaneously could make recovery more difficult and uncomfortable. By separating them, you have either core or pectoral muscles to assist in daily activities, resulting in a shorter and less painful recovery.
4. How should patients prepare before the initial consultation?
Dr. Mofid suggests making a recovery plan before the consultation. You'll need to avoid lifting anything over three pounds for several weeks after surgery, which can be challenging for new mothers. Some doctors recommend being away from your child for a few days to recover physically and mentally. This is one reason some women wait longer after childbirth. If you wait a few years, your child is less dependent on you, making recovery easier. Preparation is key, and you should research and select a qualified surgeon who addresses your concerns.
5. What's the typical recovery time after a mommy makeover?
Dr. Schaffner says surgery and recovery times vary depending on the procedures. Generally, allow one to two weeks for the initial recovery and four to eight weeks for further recovery. This includes waiting an average of six weeks before exercising. In the first week, expect swelling, bruising, discomfort, and nausea, and you'll likely be on pain medication. Dr. Hoschander adds that patients usually go home the day of surgery. Although you can recover at home, it takes time to see the final results. Generally, noticeable results can be seen within a few weeks to a few months as the swelling subsides. However, full results may take several months as your body adjusts and the surgical areas heal.
6. Can I "try on" different implant sizes?
Many doctors have advanced 3D or 4D machines for trying on implants. I used Crisalix 3D imaging to envision my breast lift results. You can upload photos anonymously for others to vote on. The Vectra 3D imaging system is another option. Initially, it might be strange to see different breasts on your body, but it helps in making a decision. Dr. Schaffner also suggested using rice in ziplock bags in your bra to get a sense of how larger breasts would feel.
7. What will my scars look like?
If you choose a Tummy tuck, you'll have a large scar at the bottom of your abdomen. For a breast lift with severe sagging, you might have a "lollipop" or "anchor" scar. Less sagging might allow for a donut or crescent lift with less visible scarring.
8. What should I buy for my recovery?
Many doctors recommend creating a pillow setup on your bed for comfort. Wound care is crucial. Dr. Mofid says patients often forget to ask about wound closure and scarring. Ask your surgeon about the specific brand used. "Sylke Adhesive Wound Closure" can improve wound healing and scar outcomes, especially for significant procedures like a mommy makeover. Precise and continuous wound care is necessary to minimize scars and infection. Long incisions and meticulous closure require careful postoperative incision management for a less noticeable scar.
9. How much does a mommy makeover cost?
The average national cost, according to RealSelf members, is around $15,000. Costs can vary greatly, especially in major cities like NYC and L.A., ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 depending on the procedures, location, and surgeon's experience. I was quoted approximately $25,000 for a breast lift with implants in New York City, and I know someone who was quoted $72,000 for a breast augmentation, liposuction, and a Tummy tuck with another top doctor. Ask your doctor if the full amount is due upfront or if there are financing options. Remember, these cosmetic procedures aren't covered by insurance, and you can't use HSA funds. Some doctors offer discounts for combining procedures or paying in cash.
10. What else should patients ask about the procedure?
Dr. Schaffner says ask to see before and after photos, talk to previous patients, and ensure the doctor has hospital privileges for the procedure. Asking friends or a mom group for recommendations is a good start, and be sure to check the doctor's website for credentials and work photos.
