Mommy Makeover

What Is a Mommy Makeover?

Pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood are some of life’s most rewarding experiences. The body goes through many changes during these processes to create life and deliver a baby into the world; however, not all of them are desirable. Shifts in breast and body shape can be difficult to reverse, even if you adhere to a rigorous exercise regimen and a strict diet. Mommy Makeover from our extensively trained plastic surgeon, Dr. Mark Richards, is designed to help restore your pre-pregnancy figure. This procedure uses a combination of techniques to address some of the most common concerns women face after having a child, and it can be customized to suit your unique needs and goals.

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View our online video library to watch Dr. Richards describe his techniques.

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What Are the Pros of a Mommy Makeover?

Mommy Makeover typically involves two main procedures: a breast lift and tummy tuck surgery. The breast lift can help restore the breasts to a more youthful look, addressing ptosis (sagging), volume, and shape concerns. Breast augmentation with lift can also be performed if the patient would like to increase the size of the bust while elevating the tissues to a higher, more youthful position. Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, addresses excess skin and loose muscles on the abdomen. Weight gain and loss associated with pregnancy can often cause stretching of the tissues in this area, and they may not all return to their previous state after childbirth. Additionally, excess fatty tissue on the stomach can be removed with liposuction at the same time, helping to achieve a flatter, more toned midsection.

How Can Mommy Makeover Be Customized to My Needs?

Your individual needs and goals will determine the treatment plan. If you would like to add other aesthetic procedures besides breast lift and tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Richards can discuss your options during your initial consultation. Many women like to add other body contouring procedures to achieve more comprehensive cosmetic enhancement. Additionally, facial rejuvenation methods, like non-surgical dermal fillers and cosmetic injectables, can be used to revitalize your facial features. It’s important for mothers to take care of themselves, as feeling beautiful can help you maintain a happy and confident perspective.

What Is the Mommy Makeover Process Like?

Your treatment plan will vary depending on the procedures included. Breast lift and tummy tuck surgery can be completed using a number of different techniques, which Dr. Richards will review with you during your initial consultation. Our website has in-depth information about a wide range of modalities that can be incorporated into your Mommy Makeover, and we encourage you to explore your options. By having a thorough understanding of what you would like to achieve, we can better tailor your plan to suit your needs and goals.

How Long Will Mommy Makeover Recovery Last?

Most patients will be able to return home the same day as their operation, but the length of recovery will depend on the number and type of procedures you have. Many women can go back to their daily routine after about two weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least a month, and other instructions for limited activity may apply. Dr. Richards will provide details about how to care for bandages and compression garments if necessary. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the treated areas is normal, and these effects should fade with time. While you should see some benefits of the procedure quickly, others may take a few months to become fully visible. You’re typically considered fully healed after about one year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mommy Makeover

Understanding the benefits and limitations of a Mommy Makeover can help you decide if this procedure is right for you. To assist you in this goal, Dr. Richards has answered some commonly asked questions about the procedure. If you have additional questions, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our medical team for an appointment.

Who is a good candidate for a Mommy Makeover?

Women who are dissatisfied with their appearance after having children often consider this procedure to restore the shape, fullness, and size of their breasts and to flatten and firm the abdomen. It’s important for patients to be in good overall health, have reasonable expectations for the result, and to be nonsmokers. During your initial consultation, Dr. Richards will evaluate your concerns and listen attentively to your cosmetic goals. Together, you and he will develop a customized treatment plan to optimize your outcome.

How much does a Mommy Makeover cost?

The cost of the procedure will depend on which techniques you choose to incorporate and the complexity of your treatment plan. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) estimates that the total price of a Mommy Makeover can range from $9,000 to over $20,000. It is our policy to provide a detailed breakdown of fees associated with your individualized plan so you can be best prepared for the procedure. While some practices offer only the surgeon’s fee in a quote, we believe that including all expected costs, including hospital facility fee and anesthesiology fee, reduces the risk of “surprises” and serves our patients better. You can learn more about your options on our medical payments page.

What treatments can I combine in a Mommy Makeover?

The most common procedures in a Mommy Makeover are a breast lift (or breast lift with augmentation) and a tummy tuck. However, you can add and adjust these options to best suit your goals. If you prefer a breast reduction or breast augmentation (the latter in the event that minimal skin laxity is present) those may also be possibilities. Additionally, many patients like to add an arm lift, liposuction, or facial rejuvenation techniques. Talk to us about what you would like to achieve and we will help you find a path forward.

What will the scars look like?

The location and appearance of scars will depend on which procedures you choose to have and which technique is utilized to perform them. For a tummy tuck, the incision is usually placed low on the hips where it can be easily concealed by clothing and even swimwear. Breast lift can be approached a few different ways, as can breast augmentation and reduction. During your appointment, Dr. Richards will discuss the placement of the incisions based on your cosmetic program. Regardless of location, most individuals find the scars heal very well and are well worth the results.

If you have additional questions about how Mommy Makeover can help you achieve your cosmetic goals, please talk to our experienced medical team today. We can answer your questions and help you schedule a consultation with Dr. Richards.