A mommy makeover combines cosmetic procedures to address the changes the body undergoes during pregnancy and breastfeeding. These changes may include reduced breast volume, stretched abdominal skin, separated abdominal muscles, and stubborn fat deposits. Because no two bodies experience pregnancy the same way, a plastic surgeon builds each care plan around each individual’s anatomy and aesthetic goals. During a consultation, the surgeon evaluates skin elasticity, fat distribution, and muscle tone before recommending specific procedures. Here’s more information on mommy makeovers and what procedures may be included in your treatment plan:
Breast Augmentation
Pregnancy and breastfeeding affect many aspects of the body and can reduce breast volume, shape, and firmness. Many mommy makeover plans include a breast augmentation to address these concerns. A breast augmentation uses implants or fat transfer to increase breast size and improve shape. For this procedure, the plastic surgeon places a saline or silicone implant through an incision in the breast fold, around the areola, or in the armpit. The implant sits above or below the chest muscle, depending on someone’s tissue thickness and the desired outcome.
Fat transfer uses fat removed through liposuction from another area, such as the abdomen or thighs; this option may suit patients seeking a modest increase in volume. Many care plans pair augmentation with a breast lift, which removes excess skin and repositions the nipple. For some patients, a surgeon may discuss a breast reduction instead. Some women find their breasts remain larger after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Large breasts can make exercise and daily activities less comfortable. A reduction removes excess tissue, fat, and skin to create a smaller, more proportionate size.
Body Contouring Options
Diet and exercise don’t always reduce fat in certain body areas after pregnancy, but body contouring procedures target these localized fat deposits. A common surgical treatment option is liposuction, which removes fat from specific areas such as the:
- Abdomen
- Flanks
- Hips
- Thighs
- Upper Arms
It can be performed alone or alongside a tummy tuck or breast procedure.
How Liposuction Works
Liposuction is not a weight-loss method; it is most appropriate for patients who are near their goal weight. For this procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions and inserts a thin tube called a cannula. The cannula loosens fat cells, which are then suctioned out.
How Nonsurgical Options Work
Cryolipolysis is a nonsurgical option for people who want to avoid incisions and anesthesia, but it doesn’t address loose skin. This treatment uses controlled cooling to target fat cells beneath the skin. An applicator rests on the treatment area for a set period, often 35 to 60 minutes. Over the following weeks, the body gradually processes the treated fat cells. Patients need more than one session to see lasting results, and changes are more modest than with liposuction.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, addresses excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles. During pregnancy, the abdominal skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby, but the muscles sometimes separate, a condition called diastasis recti. For a full tummy tuck, a surgeon makes a horizontal incision between the hip bones, just above the pubic area. The surgeon tightens the abdominal muscles with sutures, removes excess skin, and redrapes the remaining skin. Recovery typically involves several weeks of limited activity, and patients wear a compression garment during healing.
Learn About Mommy Makeover Options
A mommy makeover combines different procedures to address the specific body changes pregnancy can cause, so a treatment plan often includes breast surgery, body contouring, and a tummy tuck. A board-certified plastic surgeon can discuss your goals and explain the benefits and recovery times for each procedure. Many surgeons suggest waiting until you have finished having children and reached a stable weight before surgery. To learn more about your plastic surgery options, contact a plastic surgeon to schedule a consultation.
