A ‘mommy makeover’is the term used to describe a customized combination of cosmetic procedures that help to restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy figure.

The ‘mommy makeover’ is hugely popular among women seeking to reclaim their pre-baby bodies…

There are many areas of the body that can be addressed, most commonly the breasts, abdomen, waist, genitalia and buttocks.

About the procedures involved

The procedures typically involved in a ‘mommy makeover’ are breast lift, a tummy tuck and liposuction. All of these can be combined into a single surgical procedure.

These are, in fact, the most common plastic surgery procedures for women overall. Sometimes breast augmentation using implants is also performed, if necessary or desired, and women who have had a Cesarean section (C–section) may opt for scar revision.

These procedures collectively address the most common effects of birthing and breastfeeding on a woman’s body: weight gain and skin stretching in the abdomen, and loss of firmness and possible “deflation” in the breasts.

Candidates for a ‘mommy makeover’

The best candidates for a ‘mommy makeover‘ are women who have weaned their babies. Women should also note that if they undergo breast augmentation (rather than just a breast lift), they may affect their chances of breastfeeding at a future date, depending on the type of incision used.

If breastfeeding is important to you and you plan to have additional children, you may want to postpone breast augmentation until you have weaned your last child.

Smokers should quit for at least two weeks before and after surgery, because smoking inhibits healing.

A ‘mommy makeover‘ can have a positive effect on your self-esteem. Studies show that this kind of surgery often improves quality of life.

Preparing for surgery

Smokers should plan to stop smoking for a minimum of one or two weeks before surgery and during recovery, as smoking decreases circulation and interferes with proper healing.

You may also be asked to refrain from taking aspirin, anti-inflammation drugs, or certain herbal supplements, as they may increase bleeding during the surgery.

Recovery following a ‘mommy makeover’

The recovery period for a ‘mommy makeover’ will depend entirely on the procedures that are performed, although combining procedures should lead to a shorter recovery overall versus having the procedures done individually.

Normally, any bandages placed over incisions will remain in place for a few days, and parts of the body may require an elastic (compression) bandage or garment to be worn for a few weeks to keep swelling under control. Small tubes may be put in place to temporarily drain fluids that may collect after the operation.

During the initial weeks, it is important that a patient not exert herself; there are strict restrictions on lifting things after breast surgery, and on twisting or using core muscles after abdominal surgery.

Anyone contemplating a ‘mommy makeover‘ should make sure they are prepared for a fairly substantial amount of surgery and a significant recovery period: four to six weeks is not uncommon.

For more information about this transformative procedure, and to learn more about board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rafael Camberos, please visit: