The phrase “mommy makeover” has gained widespread popularity as mothers have increasingly pursued a surgical option to redeem their body. In its essence, a Mommy Makeover is a breast procedure and a body procedure done at the same time in a coordinated fashion.
Why People Choose to Have a Mommy Makeover
The areas of concern usually involve two main areas: the breasts and the tummy. During pregnancy, the breast swells and the skin and ligaments stretch. Afterwards, the breast tissue undergoes some involution, sometimes resulting in a smaller breast. The suspensory ligaments and skin cannot always regain their original shape and the combination of less elastic recoil and loss of volume may lead to a loss of shape, loss of volume, or both. This may result in a sagging or deflated appearance.
Likewise, the abdomen also stretches during pregnancy. The skin, tissue, and stomach cannot always resume their original shape. Because the capability of the skin, tissue, and muscle has been overwhelmed, the skin loses its elastic recoil and cannot shrink back to its original size. In addition, stretch marks may also develop as a result of “micro-fractures” in the skin. Often there is widening of the muscles during pregnancy leading to an abdominal bulge or a softness that cannot be tightened with exercise. Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) can improve all of these concerns.
Patients that have undergone a Mommy Makeover have often expressed one or more of the following concerns or comments:
- “I wish my breasts were the way they were before.”
- “I liked the size of my breasts when I was breastfeeding.”
- “No matter how much I work out, I can’t tighten my abdomen.”
- “My tummy just doesn’t look the same anymore.”
- “I wish I didn’t have these stretch marks.”
About “Mommy Makeovers”
A Mommy Makeover can address all of these issues. A Mommy Makeover is basically a fancy or catchy term for a combination procedure which includes a breast operation and a body operation. This procedure “duo” can address the concerns regarding the breast and the abdomen. Common combinations include a breast augmentation combined with a tummy tuck or a breast lift combined with a tummy tuck. However, any combination of procedures may be appropriate.
Before & After
View More
Operation
The operative time depends on the procedure(s) performed. In general, each procedure takes 1.5 – 3 hours so the procedures can be combined at the same time. All operations are performed under general anesthesia by an anesthesiologist. We always place a pain pump during abdominal operations to minimize post-operative discomfort. For extensive operations, we recommend using an after-care facility or an aftercare nurse.
The incisions are always placed in a concealed location. If there is a caesarian section scar, this is removed during the operation. We ask that you bring your favorite clothing to your appointment so that we can demonstrate the anticipated scar placement. All incisions are closed meticulously with multiple layers to achieve the best possible result. The scars can take up to 6 months to fade following surgery.
Mommy Makeover at SVIA
Mommy Makeover Patient Testimonial
Recovery
All patients are required to walk on the evening of the surgery to prevent blood clots. The recovery period is variable, depending on the procedure and extent of surgery. In general, the immediate recovery period lasts approximately 3 to 10 days to resume normal daily activity. When the abdominal muscles are tightened, strenuous activity or heavy lifting is to be avoided for 3-4 weeks with a gradual increase thereafter. The results of body contouring are long-lasting when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Mommy makeover patients choose the Silicon Valley Institute for its innovative, patient-centric approach. Part of what sets us apart is our cutting-edge RNR aftercare, which helps to minimize downtime, reduce the need for narcotic pain medications, and do away with the need for compression garments, drains, and dressings. The RNR protocol helps busy, active patients get back to enjoying their lives faster with less stress.
How Much Does a Mommy Makeover Cost?
At Liu Plastic Surgery, a Mommy Makeover generally costs between $15,000 and $25,000, which is an “all-in” range that includes the standard fees commonly associated with cosmetic surgery, such as expenses for anesthesia, the operating facility, and the surgeon. This procedure (or series of procedures) is ultimately personalized according to your unique needs, goals, and concerns, so the overall price will also vary based on the details of your treatment plan, including:
- The types of procedures chosen
- The extent of concerns addressed
- The surgical techniques utilized
- The complexity of your procedure(s)
Our office will be able to provide you with a cost estimate after you discuss your goals with Dr. Liu in a consultation. We accept financing for plastic surgery through CareCredit®, ALPHAEON™ Credit, and Prosper® Healthcare Lending, which each offer qualified patients low- to no-interest payment plans that can make their Mommy Makeover expenses more affordable.
If you would like to discuss the cost of a Mommy Makeover further, please call our office and a member of our team would be happy to assist you.
Contact Our Practice
Whatever the reason, a Mommy Makeover can lead to significant aesthetic and personal benefits for the right candidate by enhancing the overall appearance and shape of the body. Often, this translates to improved self confidence and satisfaction. To find out if a Mommy Makeover (tummy tuck, liposuction, breast augmentation, and/or breast lift) is right for you, please make an appointment with Dr. Jerome Liu or Dr. Tom Liu.
