How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Mommy Makeover?
10/29/2024
For women who want to restore their pre-pregnancy figure, a mommy makeover can provide life-changing results. This comprehensive body contouring procedure typically involves a combination of procedures — such as tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast augmentation — to address areas affected by pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Even women who have never had children but have experienced unwanted changes as a result of aging or weight loss can benefit from mommy makeover surgery.
While the transformation after a mommy makeover can be significant, it's important for patients to understand that the recovery process is also fairly significant due to the multiple areas addressed during surgery. In some cases, patients may need several months to recover from a mommy makeover. At Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center, Raleigh, NC board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Glenn Lyle provides personalized mommy makeover procedures to help women regain their confidence. Keep reading to learn more about the recovery timeline for a mommy makeover and what you can expect as you heal.
What's included in a mommy makeover?
A mommy makeover typically combines multiple procedures to target different areas of the body that have been affected by pregnancy, childbirth, weight loss, or aging. These may include:
Because everyone's anatomy and preferences are unique, Dr. Lyle will customize your mommy makeover to help meet your specific needs and goals.
What is the recovery timeline for a mommy makeover?
The recovery period for a mommy makeover can vary depending on the extent of surgery and your body's healing process, as well as other individual factors. Generally speaking, patients can expect mommy makeover recovery to be broken into several phases, including:
Week 1
The first few days following surgery will be the most challenging. You may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort, making it difficult to move around or stand up straight. During this time, Dr. Lyle will provide detailed postoperative instructions to follow at home, including how to care for your incisions and manage discomfort. Rest is imperative during this phase, but light walking is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots.
Weeks 2 – 4
By the second or third week after mommy makeover, you may start to feel more comfortable and able to move around with less pain. While many patients are able to return to work and light daily activities within 2 – 4 weeks, strenuous activities and exercise should still be avoided during this phase. Swelling and bruising may still be present but should begin to improve.
Months 2 – 3
Around the two-month mark, you can begin to gradually reintroduce exercise into your routine, starting with light activity. Dr. Lyle will give you the green light to resume more intense physical activities once your body has sufficiently healed.
Months 6 and beyond
Full recovery from mommy makeover can take up to six months, during which time your results will continue to improve as swelling subsides and your body adjusts to its new shape.
How can I speed up recovery after a mommy makeover?
While it may not be possible to speed up the mommy makeover recovery process, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smooth and successful healing journey while preventing unwanted delays, including:
- Follow your postoperative instructions closely
- Get plenty of rest
- Avoid overexerting yourself
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Wear your compression garments
- Take medications and supplements as recommended by Dr. Lyle
By adhering to these mommy makeover recovery guidelines, you can help your body heal properly and enjoy mommy makeover results as soon as possible.
Feel confident and comfortable in your own skin again with a mommy makeover in Raleigh, NC
If you're ready to take the next step toward getting your pre-baby body back, we are here to help. Start your Raleigh, NC mommy makeover transformation today by calling Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center to schedule your private consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Glenn Lyle.