How Long is the Recovery for a Mommy Makeover?
Published on April 30, 2019 by Andrew Barnett

Pregnancy, weight gain, and breastfeeding can all have a negative impact on a woman’s self-image. With today’s advanced surgical techniques, however, we’re able to help sculpt and restore a woman’s shape to her ideal pre-pregnancy figure. A mommy makeover is a specialized approach to body contouring tailored to meet a new mothers’ specific goals.
During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss all of your mommy makeover options in depth. Afterward, we’ll create a customized treatment and talk about how you can prepare for your upcoming procedure. With careful planning before your mommy makeover, the recovery process is typically straightforward and easy.
What Recovery Can You Expect from Your Individual Procedures?
While every mommy makeover procedure is unique, traditionally we’ll address some of the common concerns women face after childbearing. Most mommy makeovers include some type of breast enhancement as well as an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and potentially some liposuction. Vaginal rejuvenation can also be enlisted if needed.
Breast Rejuvenation
Breast rejuvenation after pregnancy can be either a lift to correct sagging or reposition the nipple, an augmentation with implants, or even a breast reduction. I commonly perform all three procedures and often pair a lift with an augmentation to contour a woman’s desired shape. The downtime for breast enhancement can be 1-2 weeks with limited activities for 6-weeks or more.
Liposuction
Liposuction can be used throughout the body to sculpt a slimmer physique. I work closely with each woman individually to help reach her aesthetic goals whether that means reducing pockets of fat on the arms, flanks, hips, thighs, or buttocks. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction can have as little as several days downtime with full recovery in about 6-weeks.
Abdominoplasty
A tummy tuck is the most commonly requested procedure in a mommy makeover. Some women may only need a ‘mini’ tuck to get the results they want. Women who get a full abdominoplasty typically need 7-10 days before returning to normal activities. More strenuous activities should be postponed for 6-weeks as you start to feel more comfortable doing so.
Mommy Makeover Consultations Available
Why Combine Procedures?
In most cases, I’m able to safely stage all of your procedures into a single surgery. Many women are happy to undergo a full mommy makeover with only one recovery period because they’re able to get back to enjoying motherhood more quickly. There is no added downtime with mommy makeover procedures. You can expect your recovery to be similar to that of your most invasive procedure which is typically an abdominoplasty.
At the time of your initial consultation, I’ll evaluate your concerns and speak with you about your ultimate goals. We’ll discuss what each procedure can do and what you can realistically expect from each. Chances are if you’re otherwise healthy and have the right mindset, we can schedule all of your procedures into one session. Together, we’ll get you on your way to being a happy, healthy, fit mother.
I regularly get asked for plastic surgery referrals and always refer to Dr. Barnett. I’ve gone to him twice. He has also operated on several of my friends. I refer to him because he is honest, very competent, and sets expectations accordingly.
Take the Next Step
Ready to look and feel your best? Schedule a consultation with Andrew Barnett M.D. to discuss your options today. Consultations are available in both our San Francisco and Walnut Creek offices. You may schedule for either location by calling (415) 362-1221. Renee or Laurie will help you and answer any pre-consultation questions you may have!
*Individual results may vary.