A mommy makeover is a combination of plastic surgery procedures designed to restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy body contour. It typically includes breast surgery, tummy tucks, and liposuction.
Recovering from a mommy makeover is a gradual process. Here is what to expect during your recovery, week by week:
Week 1
The first week after your mommy makeover surgery is the most difficult stage of recovery. Your body has undergone major changes and needs time to begin healing. Expect this period to involve lots of rest and very limited activity. You should plan to rest during this time, only getting up for basic essentials. You’ll likely feel fatigued and sore, and it’s common to feel pain and discomfort. Medications will be prescribed to help alleviate pain.
Swelling and bruising around the surgical areas are also normal. You may have drains in place to prevent fluid buildup. Wearing your surgical garments is crucial, as they provide support for the tissues. Your surgeon will provide specific post-surgical care instructions, covering aspects such as wound care and hygiene.
By the end of week one, you may be able to take a shower and gently wash the surgical areas. However, it is advisable to avoid baths, swimming, and vigourous scrubbing for several more weeks. Engaging in short-distance walks is encouraged to enhance circulation and support the recovery process.
Week 2
Hooray! You’ve reached Week 2, and you’re probably starting to feel more like your regular self. At this point, the initial swelling should start to resolve, and you may notice an improvement in pain and discomfort. However, feelings of weakness and fatigue may still persist.
During this period, interim surgical dressings like steri-strips and surgical glue start coming off. You may have follow-up appointments for dressing changes. Many patients continue to wear a surgical bra regularly in Week 2. Some individuals, if able, may even return to sedentary work during this time.
Week 3
The start of week three marks a turning point for many patients, with energy levels and mobility improving. You may now find that you can sit for an extended period of time without discomfort. You can take slightly longer walks and even tackle a few easy chores or tasks around the house. You can also resume activities like using stairs, shopping, and socialising for short periods of time. During this phase, numbness from surgical nerve damage also starts getting better but may persist for several more weeks.
Weeks 4-6
During weeks four, five, and six, you can expect to continue experiencing boosts in your energy and tolerance for activity. The remaining swelling should steadily subside while allowing enhanced visibility of your surgical outcomes. Lingering skin numbness in isolated areas also tends to diminish.
In week four, your surgeon may provide the green light for the introduction of specific low-impact exercises if healing progresses sufficiently according to their assessment. Options typically approved first around this stage encompass walking, gentle stretching, stationary cycling, and strength training with very light weights. You have to wait at least until week 8 to start more intense exercise and weightlifting.
Weeks 7-12
Congratulations! You’re nearing the final phase of your Mommy Makeover recovery and starting to savour the results. Exercise restrictions have been fully lifted. Incisions are closed, bright pink, and free from steri-strip tape.
While most recovery is complete in three months, subtle swelling may persist for up to a year. Your healthcare provider may recommend scar treatment to optimise the healing process. You can also switch to regular bras without an underwire.
Concluding Thoughts
Recovery from this cosmetic surgery is gradual but very manageable. Each week typically brings great progress as swelling dissipates, scars mature and surgical results emerge. Taking proper care while allowing the body to heal leads to the best outcomes. Being patient with the process enables mums to safely restore their pre-baby bodies.