Choosing to have a Mommy Makeover surgery is an exciting step in reclaiming your health and confidence after having a baby. It’s important to understand what recovery entails so you can properly prepare.
Let’s look at the most important things you can do for a smooth Mommy Makeover surgery recovery. We’ll explain what to expect, how to ease discomfort, and warning signs that you should call your doctor.
What to Expect During Your Mommy Makeover Surgery Recovery
A typical Mommy Makeover surgery recovery period depends on the number and type of procedures performed. Most Mommy Makeovers include a combination of breast surgery (like a reduction, lift, or augmentation), tummy tuck, and liposuction. Each of these procedures has its own healing timeline. But since they’re performed at the same time, expect to experience a layered recovery.
| Mommy Makeover Surgery Recovery Timeline | |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | You’ll be groggy and sore Make sure to have someone drive you home and stay with youYou’ll potentially have compression garments and drain tubes Stay on top of pain medications and keep movement to a minimum |
| Days 2-3 | Swelling, pain, and bruising will peak Rest and hydration are very importantYou’ll still need help getting up and with daily tasksWalking around is helpful for your recoverySleep upright to help with swelling |
| Week 1 | Walking is encouraged to promote blood flow, but take it slowKeep wearing your compression garmentsDrain tubes are usually removed around days 5-7Pain, swelling, and bruising are still present but should be more manageableYou’ll likely have a follow-up appointment around this time to check on progress |
| Week 2 | Discomfort and swelling will improveYou will be allowed to shower thoroughlySome patients return to desk work at this timeYou’ll likely have a follow-up appointment around this time to check on progress |
| Week 3 | Movement should feel much easierYou can gradually return to normal activitiesShort outings and light chores are allowed, but you may still have compression garmentsSleeping flat is permitted as long as your surgeon is okay with it |
| Week 4+ | You can gradually resume normal activities, including light exercise Scars will still be healing, but will slowly fade over time Your results might be more visible |
The most important thing you can give your body is time. Don’t rush into your usual routine a few days after surgery, even if you feel okay. Remember, your body is still healing internally and will continue for at least a few weeks.
Preparing for a Smooth Mommy Makeover Surgery Recovery
Preparing your home and schedule before surgery can make a huge difference in speeding up recovery. Follow these tips:
Set Up a Recovery Zone
Create a comfortable space stocked with extra pillows since you will need to keep your upper body elevated. Keep snacks, water, and any medications you’ll need within easy reach, as well as entertainment to help you pass the time.
Ask for Help
Rally your loved ones, friends, or professional help to take care of your daily tasks while you recuperate. This is especially important if you have young children or pets to take care of.
Prepare Meals Ahead of Time
Stock up on healthy, easy-to-heat meals. Consider freezing meals ahead of time, so you can quickly reheat them. Proper nutrition is essential to your body’s healing process.
Plan Time Off
Depending on your job, you may need two to six weeks off work. Talk to your employer beforehand, especially if your work involves significant physical activity.
Tips to Ease Discomfort and Speed Up Recovery
It’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, and soreness at surgery sites. As swelling goes down, the final results of your surgery can take several months to be fully visible.
Here are tips to manage discomfort during your Mommy Makeover surgery recovery:
Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Your body heals best when you rest. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night and take naps when you’re tired.
Manage Pain and Discomfort
Diligently follow your medication schedule exactly as prescribed. Don’t let pain build up before finally deciding to take medicine. Elevate your upper body and use ice packs to help manage swelling.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Drink lots of water and eat a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet. Foods like leafy greens, berries, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids can help boost healing and tissue repair.
Move Gently
Once your doctor has given you the green light, take light walks around your house to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. However, avoid strenuous activity until you’re fully healed.
When to Call Your Surgeon
While mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal, it’s important to be aware when something might not be right.
| Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience: | A fever higher than 101°F |
| Severe or increasing pain not controlled by medication | |
| Excessive swelling or redness | |
| Pus-like discharge from incisions | |
| Shortness of breath or chest pain |
Keeping your follow-up appointments is just as important. In addition to monitoring your progress, your surgeon can address any concerns early.
Complete Your Transformation
All good things take time. While recovering from a Mommy Makeover surgery requires time and planning, the rewards are well worth it.
At Harris Plastic Surgery, we support you every step of the way. Dr. Stephen Harris and his expert team are committed to providing compassionate care to meet your needs and recovery goals.
Reach out to our office to schedule your consultation. to learn more. You can also contact us by phone/text.
Stephen U. Harris, MD FACS
Dr. Stephen U. Harris is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and recognized expert in breast reduction and reconstruction surgeries, having performed thousands in his career. When it comes to patient care, his philosophy is that every surgery should improve his patient’s overall quality of life, not just their appearance. Dr. Harris stays up-to-date on all the latest advancements in breast augmentation, reconstruction, and reduction and is a recognized innovator in the field. In fact, he was the first surgeon at Good Samaritan Hospital to offer primary prepectoral implant breast reconstruction, as well as secondary prepectoral revision surgery.
Dr. Harris also serves as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip, New York and is an active staff surgeon (and former Chief of Plastic Surgery) at South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, New York.
