Post-Mommy Makeover: Recovery, Results and Maintaining Your Shape
Posted By:
Dr. Chris Schaffer
Read Time: ~ minutes
The Mommy Makeover is one of the most sought-after plastic surgery procedures, largely because it addresses several key areas that women are looking to improve or enhance after having children. The Mommy Makeover is a combination procedure that typically includes breast augmentation, tummy tuck and liposuction, though the exact surgical plan can be personalized to address your specific areas of concern.
Before you schedule your Mommy Makeover, it’s important to understand the recovery process for this surgery. This guide will provide you with an overview of what you can expect, and Dr. Christopher Schaffer will also give you personalized support and guidance for your healing journey. To enjoy the best possible results, it’s critically important to follow the medical advice of your surgeon.
The Recovery Timeline: A Week-by-Week Guide
During the recovery process, your body will be healing, and your true results will be revealing themselves. This week-by-week guide can help you understand what to expect during your Mommy Makeover recovery.
Surgery Day
Your Mommy Makeover surgery will be performed by Dr. Christopher Schaffer at our certified surgical center. As an outpatient operation, you will be discharged after your operation is complete. You should ask a family member or trusted friend to transport you to and from the surgical center. You may also need ongoing care for about 24 hours following the surgery.
Week 1
Most patients describe the first week as the most difficult week of recovery. During this time, you can expect significant swelling and bruising. Rest and recuperation should be your top priorities, and you should avoid all heavy lifting. It is best to have someone help you with child care during this first week.
Week 2
During this week, you will likely start to feel a bit stronger and more like yourself. You should still rest as much as possible, but you can start to enjoy light exercise this week. Continue to strictly follow all postoperative instructions that were provided by Dr. Schaffer.
Weeks 3-4
You will likely be able to resume some normal activities, such as working or driving a car. Continue to avoid heavy lifting, and rest whenever you are able.
6 Months Post-Surgery
It will take about 6 months for you to see the full results of your Mommy Makeover. During the first few critical months of your recovery, continue to work closely with Dr. Schaffer to ensure that you are getting the care that you need during this time.
How to Ensure a Smooth Recovery After Your Mommy Makeover
You can improve the results of your procedure and ensure a smooth recovery after your Mommy Makeover by:
- Resting on your back and sleeping at a slight elevation to reduce swelling and protect your incisions.
- Follow the personalized pain management guidance from Dr. Schaffer and work to keep your discomfort under control.
- Monitor the incision for signs of infection, and clean your wound regularly with gentle soap and warm water.
- Prioritizing your recovery for at least four weeks. Rest frequently, avoid heavy lifting and follow all postoperative instructions.
How to Prevent Complications During Recovery
The vast majority of patients have a smooth and seamless recovery, but it is important to be aware of potential complications. Common postoperative challenges include swelling, scarring and infection. In some cases, patients experience emotional fluctuations that can be difficult to manage. Following the personalized guidance and instruction from Dr. Schaffer can significantly reduce the risk of postoperative complications, but if you have any concerns, you can contact Dr. Schaffer at any time during your recovery.
Maintaining Your Results: The Importance of Long-Term Care
In the months and years following your surgery, it is important to take strategic steps to maintain your results. You should enjoy a well-balanced diet that will naturally support your body’s healing process and help you maintain a healthy weight. Once you are cleared to exercise again, focus on exercises that will strengthen your muscles and tone your body without compromising your surgical results.
Enjoy a Lifetime of Confidence: Adjusting Your Lifestyle After Surgery
As you move forward after your surgery, you will want to focus on making healthy lifestyle choices to extend the lifespan of your results. By enjoying a well-balanced diet, regular exercise and routine self-care, you can develop a body-positive mindset that will allow you to feel confident in every aspect of your life.
Rely on Schaffer Plastic Surgery Throughout Your Entire Recovery
Recovery is a journey, and you will need to take that journey one step at a time. By following personalized medical guidance and relying on Dr. Schaffer for support during your recovery, you will enjoy incredible results from your Mommy Makeover procedure that will last for years to come.
As part of the Schaffer Plastic Surgery family, you can continue to look to Dr. Schaffer and his team for ongoing support and care.
Contact Schaffer Plastic Surgery today to schedule your post-operative follow-up appointment and to learn more about opportunities to connect with others through our community support groups that offer continued encouragement.
Gallery
View Gallery