Pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood are often described as the most beautiful periods of life. However, what is less often discussed is how these major life milestones affect your body. Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can be very demanding on a woman’s body, and getting back in shape is not always easy. A mommy makeover is here for all the moms who want to feel great in their bodies again.
What is a mommy makeover?
A mommy makeover is a combination of surgical procedures that help you get your body back to how it was before pregnancy. It focuses on areas of the body that are most affected by pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, such as the abdomen, breasts, genital area, and any other areas prone to fat storage.
A big advantage of a mommy makeover is that all procedures are done under one anesthesia. Even though it is a series of surgeries, the doctor performs all procedures at once. This reduces the strain on your body and also shortens the overall recovery time.
Although it is a combination of several surgeries, there is only one anesthesia, which is a significant benefit compared to undergoing these surgeries separately.
What happens to a woman’s body during pregnancy and after?
During pregnancy and afterwards, a woman’s body undergoes numerous changes. Some of the main changes include:
- Abdominal enlargement: Naturally, during pregnancy, the abdomen enlarges as the fetus grows inside. This leads to stretching of the skin, the formation of stretch marks, and weakening of the abdominal muscles.
- Breast enlargement: Another sign of pregnancy is the enlargement of the breasts as the body prepares for breastfeeding. After childbirth and breastfeeding, breasts may lose firmness and volume.
- Weight changes: Pregnancy is accompanied by weight gain. This is not only due to the growing fetus but also hormonal changes and the body’s need to gain as much energy and nutrients as possible.
- Physiological changes during childbirth: Childbirth involves further physiological changes, especially as the fetus passes through the birth canal. This can cause additional stretching of tissues, particularly in the pelvic area
A woman has to adjust to all these changes after pregnancy and childbirth. While bringing new life into the world is an incredible achievement, these side effects can negatively impact self-esteem. Despite adequate exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, it may not be easy for a woman to regain her pre-pregnancy figure.
What procedures are included in a mommy makeover?
To help a woman feel good in her body again, a mommy makeover can be the right solution. The transformation after childbirth does not only involve tummy tuck procedures, but includes various surgeries that will help you reclaim your figure as it was before pregnancy. What procedures may be part of a mommy makeover?
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) after childbirth
After childbirth, it is common for excess skin, fat, and sometimes even separated abdominal muscles (especially after a C-section) to remain on the abdomen. No matter how much you exercise, these issues cannot be completely corrected through diet and exercise.
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that helps to tighten the abdomen, remove excess skin, and repair the separation of the abdominal muscles. Abdominoplasty can be combined with liposuction to remove excess fat.
Liposuction
Pregnancy is not just about an enlarged abdomen. Often, other parts of the body where fat is stored enlarge along with the growing belly. However, unlike the abdomen, this fat doesn’t magically disappear after childbirth. Sometimes losing excess weight after pregnancy can be a tough battle. Liposuction is a procedure that helps eliminate excess fat in areas such as the thighs, abdomen, arms, or under the chin.
Tip: Read more about liposuction and its types.
Breast augmentation and lifting
Breasts are another area that is significantly affected by pregnancy and, especially, breastfeeding. After breastfeeding, breasts may lose firmness and volume. These changes can be emotionally challenging for women and can negatively impact their self-esteem.
With breast augmentation or lifting, you can regain firm and full breasts.
Tip: Are you curious about the difference between augmentation and lifting? Read our article on breast lifting to learn about the main differences.
Labiaplasty
After childbirth, some women may notice changes in the appearance of their labia. There can be enlargement, asymmetry, or other aesthetic deformities. For many women, this can lead to dissatisfaction.
Labiaplasty is an aesthetic surgical procedure in which the doctor modifies the appearance of the labia minora or, in some cases, the labia majora.
When is it suitable to undergo a mommy makeover?
Women often want everything, ideally right away. However, when it comes to a mommy makeover, a little patience is required. The right time for a makeover depends on several factors. What are they?
- Completion of breastfeeding: If you are still breastfeeding and considering a mommy makeover, it is important to wait until breastfeeding has ended. This allows the breasts enough time to recover and return to a more natural shape.
- Stabilization of weight: Weight fluctuations are common during pregnancy and breastfeeding.After breastfeeding, it is essential to wait until you return to a “normal” routine and your weight stabilizes. Stabilized weight will lead to better and longer-lasting results from the procedures.
- Stable hormone levels: Breastfeeding is associated with hormonal changes that can affect your body’s processes, including wound healing and recovery after surgery. Once breastfeeding ends, hormone levels will return to normal, which can help support a better recovery after a mommy makeover.
- Good overall health: Good physical health is crucial for any surgical procedures. Even though these are routine procedures, it is important for your body to be in full strength to handle the demands of surgery.
Tip: If you plan on having more children, it’s advisable to carefully consider whether the procedure is right for you at this moment. Pregnancy will once again bring changes to your body, including weight gain, breast enlargement, and abdominal expansion. All of these changes could affect the results of a mommy makeover.
Is a consultation with a doctor necessary?
Yes, before undergoing a mommy makeover, it is crucial to have a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the doctor will perform a thorough examination and discuss your expectations and any concerns. Since a mommy makeover involves several procedures, the doctor will also help you choose the specific surgeries based on your individual needs.
Tip: Are you afraid of plastic surgery? Read our 6 tips to help you manage and overcome fear.
Have you decided that you want to feel great in your body?
A mommy makeover is a great way to help your body regain its shape after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Whether you want to tighten your abdomen, restore full breasts, or remove excess fat, a mommy makeover offers a comprehensive solution. Schedule a free consultation with us, and our experienced doctors will assist you.