One of the hottest topics in plastic surgery these days is the “mommy
makeover,” a combination of procedures that can help mothers recover
their pre-baby bodies.
Pregnancy is an amazing time in a woman’s life, but carrying a baby for nine months takes a toll on the body. Many women who come to us feel self-conscious due to loose, excess skin, stretch marks, breasts that are not as firm or high as they were previously, or a “pooch”—a tummy that still protrudes somewhat after the baby has been born. This can be very frustrating for women who miss their pre-pregnancy clothes and feel self-conscious about their new bodies—especially when they’ve been working hard at dieting and exercising. Unfortunately, while diet and exercise are very important, they can’t resolve the issues mentioned above.
The good news is, we can help.
For moms who are considering plastic surgery as an option to regain their pre-baby body, Dr. Smith will make personalized recommendations based on their general health, skin tone, and the results they desire. A mommy makeover generally involves the procedures listed below, but not everyone will need all of them.
Mommy Makeover Procedures
Tummy Tuck – A tummy tuck can be dramatically transformative. During this procedure, Dr. Smith will remove excess fat and skin from the abdominal area, and will tighten the abdominal muscles if necessary. Depending on their location, a tummy tuck can also remove some stretch marks. The incision for this procedure is usually below the “bikini line” so that the scar will be invisible in most swimwear. Our before and after gallery demonstrates the dramatic results of tummy tuck procedures.
Breast Surgery – Dr. Smith may choose to do a mastopexy (breast lift) or augmentation (implants), or both, depending on the condition of a patient’s breasts and their desires. A mastopexy can help restore the firm, “perky” breasts a mom had before pregnancy and breastfeeding. And implants can compensate for any volume loss. The result? A more beautiful, youthful-looking bust.
SmartLipo – Pregnancy can leave stubborn pockets of fat around the waist and stomach that cannot be eliminated by any amount of crunches. SmartLipo, a laser-assisted liposuction procedure, is an excellent way to address these stubborn areas.
Labiaplasty – After childbirth it is common to experience dissatisfaction with changes to the vaginal area caused by swelling due to increased blood flow and pressure that leads to stretching of delicate tissue. We routinely perform a procedure called labiaplasty, in which we surgically shorten and reshape the labia to remove excess skin and restore natural contours. Patients can ask to see before and after pictures of labiaplasty procedures during their consultation.
Who Can Have A Mommy Makeover?
In order to get the full benefit of the tummy tuck and SmartLipo, we recommend that women should be done having children before considering these procedures. However, we can do a breast augmentation or lift at any time.
Operation Time and Downtime
A full mommy makeover usually takes 3-5 hours in the operating room, plus an additional hour or two to recover from surgery. Patients will go home the same day. After surgery, most women will take about 6-8 weeks to fully recover, though they can go back to work within about 2 weeks.
If you would like to know more about mommy makeovers, call our office at (702) 838-2455 to schedule a personal consultation. Dr. Smith will be happy to answer your questions and make recommendations to help you regain your pre-baby body.
