Pregnancy, weight changes, and ageing can profoundly impact your body. Breasts may lose their youthful shape, becoming deflated or saggy, while the abdomen can develop excess skin, stubborn fat deposits, and weakened muscles that do not respond to diet and exercise. These changes can significantly affect a self-esteem and, confidence and comfort.
Dr. Glenn Lyle is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Raleigh, NC, who specializes in procedures that help women reclaim their confidence and body contours. One of the most transformative approaches to a mommy makeover is combining mastopexy (breast lift) and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). This powerful combination not only restores a youthful silhouette but also enhances overall body harmony, creating a balanced, natural look that aligns with each patient’s goals.
In this article, we’ll cover the benefits of this combination procedure, what to expect, and how it can help you achieve a sculpted, rejuvenated figure that feels as good as it looks – in order to get your ‘pre baby body back’.
Understanding the Mommy Makeover
A mommy makeover is a customized combination of cosmetic procedures designed to reverse the effects of pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and ageing. While the specific procedures vary based on individual needs, many women choose a combination of breast surgery and abdominoplasty to address sagging breasts and abdominal laxity.
This combination helps restore breast volume and shape while simultaneously flattening and tightening the abdominal area. Many patients find that treating both areas at once delivers a more harmonious and proportional outcome, reducing the need for future surgeries.
A mommy makeover isn’t about changing who you are – it’s about helping you feel like yourself again.
Why Combine Mastopexy and Abdominoplasty?
1. A Balanced, Natural Look
- Addressing the breasts and abdomen together creates a proportionate, well-contoured figure that looks natural rather than piecemeal.
- A breast lift enhances breast position, firmness, and overall appearance, while a tummy tuck tightens and flattens the midsection, allowing for a comprehensive body transformation. For added volume, a breast implant can be added to improve upper pole projection.
- Many patients who undergo only one procedure find that the untreated area still affects their overall body shape, making them feel incomplete. By combining the two, patients achieve a more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing result.
2. A Single Recovery Period
- Instead of going through two separate surgeries with two extended recovery periods, combining mastopexy and abdominoplasty allows you to recover from both procedures at the same time.
- The initial healing phase may be more intensive, but patients typically appreciate the efficiency of undergoing just one recovery period.
Mothers and busy professionals don’t have time for multiple recoveries – this combination lets them heal efficiently.
3. Enhanced Confidence
- Many women struggle with sagging breasts and loose abdominal skin, which can make it difficult to feel comfortable in clothing or swimwear.
- This combined procedure provides a dramatic transformation, helping you feel more youthful, confident, and comfortable in your own body.
- Patients frequently report feeling empowered to wear outfits they previously avoided and enjoy a more active lifestyle with greater ease.
What to Expect from the Surgery
Your Consultation with Dr. Glenn Lyle in NC
When you have a consultation, Dr. Lyle will discuss your goals and concerns in detail. He will assess your anatomy, skin elasticity, and overall health to create a personalized surgical plan. We will also go over:
- Incision Placement and Expected Scarring: He will explain where incisions will be made, how they will be placed to minimize visibility, and what to expect in terms of healing.
- Whether Breast Implants Should Be Included: Some patients choose to add implants with their mastopexy for extra volume, which we will discuss based on your preferences and goals.
- How Abdominoplasty Can Tighten Weakened Muscles: Pregnancy can cause diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles), and a tummy tuck can repair this to create a firmer, flatter midsection.
- Realistic Expectations: We will review before-and-after photos and discuss what results are achievable for your body type.
The Surgical Process
Mastopexy (Breast Lift):
- Excess skin is removed to correct sagging.
- The breast tissue is reshaped to create a more lifted, youthful contour.
- The nipple and areola may be repositioned for a more natural appearance.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck):
- Loose skin is removed from the abdomen, particularly in the lower belly area.
- The underlying abdominal muscles are tightened to create a firmer core.
- Excess fat may be removed to improve body contouring.
Final Refinements:
- Liposuction may be used to remove stubborn fat pockets around the waist and flanks for a smoother transition between the abdomen and surrounding areas.
The Recovery Process
Healing and Downtime
First Week:
- Swelling, bruising, and soreness will peak during the first several days.
- It is essential to rest, follow post-op instructions, and avoid any strenuous activities.
- Wearing compression garments can help reduce swelling and support healing.
Weeks 2-4:
- Swelling begins to subside, and mobility gradually improves.
- Most patients return to work and light daily activities within this period, though heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should still be avoided.
Six Weeks and Beyond:
- Your new body contours become more defined as swelling continues to decrease.
- Final results begin to emerge, and patients experience a renewed sense of confidence.
Seeing my patients regain their confidence and happiness is the most rewarding part of my work.
Long-Term Results
- Once healed, the results of a combined mastopexy and abdominoplasty are long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
- Many women feel a restored sense of femininity and body confidence, with results that help them look and feel their best for years to come.
Meet Dr. Glenn Lyle
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Glenn Lyle, a board-certified plastic surgeon, has been proudly serving the Raleigh, NC, community at Lyle Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center since 2002. With a deep passion for helping patients reclaim their confidence, Dr. Lyle specializes in transformative breast surgery and body contouring procedures. Whether addressing the effects of weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, his expert care and artistic approach empower individuals to look and feel their best. Dr. Lyle is dedicated to creating beautiful, natural results that reflect each patient’s personal journey and goals.
Who is a Good Candidate?
The best candidates for a combined mastopexy and abdominoplasty:
- Are in good overall health: A strong immune system helps support smooth healing and optimal results.
- Have completed childbearing: Pregnancy after a tummy tuck can alter results, so it’s best for women who are not planning future pregnancies.
- Maintain a stable weight: Significant weight fluctuations can impact the long-term outcome of surgery.
- Have realistic expectations: Patients should understand the benefits and limitations of the procedure while maintaining a positive outlook on their transformation.
FAQs About Combining Mastopexy and Abdominoplasty
How long does the recovery process take?
Most patients require around six weeks for a full recovery. Swelling and bruising decrease within the first few weeks, and normal activities can be resumed gradually.
Will I have visible scars after surgery?
While scarring is inevitable, I use advanced surgical techniques to ensure scars are as minimal and discreet as possible. Proper post-op care can also improve scar healing.
Can I combine other procedures with mastopexy and abdominoplasty?
Yes, additional procedures such as liposuction or fat transfer can be included for further contouring and enhancement.
How soon can I return to work?
Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within two to three weeks, depending on their recovery progress.
Will this surgery affect my ability to breastfeed?
Mastopexy may impact breastfeeding ability, but it varies by patient. We can discuss this in detail during your consultation.
What results can I realistically expect?
You can expect a firmer, flatter abdomen and lifted, more youthful breasts. Final results will become apparent as swelling subsides.
How can I maintain my results long-term?
Maintaining a stable weight, following a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise will help sustain your results for years.
Medical References
- Combining Abdominal and Cosmetic Breast Surgery – PMC – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6296326/
- Combined Breast Lift and Augmentation – ASPS – https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/combined-breast-lift-and-augmentation-is-safe-suggests-study-in-plastic-and-reconstructive-surgery
- Mastopexy and Abdominal Skin Excision – LWW Journals – https://journals.lww.com/prsgo/fulltext/2022/05000/mastopexy_and_abdominal_skin_excision_with.49.aspx
- Safe and Consistent Outcomes – Aesthetic Surgery Journal – https://academic.oup.com/asj/article-abstract/29/2/129/270254
- Risk of Complications in Combined Procedures – Aesthetic Surgery Journal – https://academic.oup.com/asj/article-abstract/43/11/1384/7147606
- For Patients Seeking Combination Procedures – ASPS – https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/for-patients-seeking-combination-procedures-time-is-precious
- Trends and Outcomes in Combined Surgery – LWW Journals – https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/fulltext/2014/10001/trends_and_perioperative_outcomes_in_combined.142.aspx
Ready to Transform Your Body?
If you’re considering a mommy makeover in Raleigh, NC, We’d love to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Combining mastopexy and abdominoplasty can give you the firm, youthful figure you desire – and the confidence that comes with it.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lyle today and take the first step toward a more confident you.
Next Steps
If you’re considering a procedure in Raleigh, NC, and want personalized advice about your suitability, recovery, risks and results, I’d be happy to meet with you for a consultation. Let’s work together to help you achieve your best results-safely and beautifully.
To book a consultation please fill in the contact form or call (919) 307-8585.
Further Reading
- Read Dr Glenn Lyle’s Procedure on Mommy Makeover in Raleigh, NC
- Read Dr Glenn Lyle’s Blog on How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Mommy Makeover?
- Read Dr Glenn Lyle’s Blog on Weight Loss After Mommy Makeover in Raleigh, NC
- Read Dr Glenn Lyle’s Blog on How Much does a Mommy Makeover Cost in NC?
