How Soon Can I Resume My Daily Activities After Mommy Makeover Surgery?

Getting a “pre-baby body” back after childbirth is a popular goal for many women once their pregnancy is over, thanks to the many physical changes that having children, breastfeeding, and drastic weight fluctuation can cause. At Mays Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Louisville, KY, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Chet Mays can help you look and feel more like yourself again after pregnancy with mommy makeover surgery. For many patients, the question of when they can return to work and other normal activities after mommy makeover surgery is a common one. Keep reading to find the answer.

Is a mommy makeover right for me?

Generally speaking, mommy makeover surgery is considered an appropriate and effective option for women who have finished having children, are hoping to improve or reverse the unwanted cosmetic and functional side effects of pregnancy and childbirth, and are in good overall health. It's essential for patients contemplating a mommy makeover to have realistic expectations about the potential outcome of surgery and to be committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after the procedure. Following a comprehensive consultation, Dr. Mays can help determine whether mommy makeover surgery may be appropriate for you.

What's included in a full mommy makeover?

A full mommy makeover typically includes a customized combination of procedures tailored to address the unique concerns, anatomy, and goals of each individual patient. While the treatments and procedures included in a mommy makeover will vary from person to person, they often include:

• Breast augmentation
• Breast lift
• Liposuction
• Diastasis recti repair
• Hernia repair
• Fat transfer
• Tummy tuck
• Skin removal
• Nonsurgical treatments and procedures

How long is recovery after mommy makeover surgery?

Recovery after mommy makeover — both in terms of time and extent — will depend on your overall health, your adherence to Dr. Mays’ recovery instructions, your body's individual healing process, and other factors. Typically, you can expect some initial discomfort, bruising, and swelling, which are normal after surgery. Most women can return to light activities within a week or two, but more strenuous activities will remain off-limits for several weeks or months. Keep in mind that you may need assistance with childcare and household chores during the early stages of recovery, so it's advisable to plan for some extra help during this time.

When can I start exercising again after a mommy makeover?

Resuming exercise after mommy makeover surgery is a gradual process. It's critical to prioritize your healing during the initial weeks after surgery and to allow your body adequate time to recover properly. Patients are encouraged to take light, frequent walks around the house soon after surgery, but it may be necessary to adjust your body position — bending at the waist, for example — particularly for patients whose mommy makeover includes a tummy tuck. Lifting weights, running, and other high-impact or high-energy exercises should be restricted for a minimum of 6 – 8 weeks or until cleared by Dr. Mays. In some cases, full recovery after mommy makeover surgery can take up to six months. Resuming exercise too soon after a mommy makeover can delay your recovery and even compromise your results in some cases, making it imperative to follow Dr. Mays’ postoperative instructions as closely as possible.

When is the best time to schedule a mommy makeover?

The timing of your mommy makeover should be carefully considered. It's recommended to undergo this surgery once you've completed your family and do not plan on having more children. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can significantly impact the results of your mommy makeover, so waiting until you've finished building your family is ideal for achieving the longest-lasting results possible. Additionally, patients should plan their surgery for a time when they’ll have an adequate support system in place to help during recovery, especially for those who will need assistance with daily tasks, childcare, and transportation.

Restore your pre-pregnancy body with a mommy makeover in Louisville, KY

There’s no question that mommy makeover surgery can be a transformative and even life-changing experience for women who are struggling with the adverse physical, cosmetic, and even psychological side effects of pregnancy, breastfeeding, and childbirth. With mommy makeover surgery — followed by patience, appropriate aftercare, and a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stable weight thereafter — many patients have regained their feminine figure and self-confidence. Join these women in feeling like yourself again by calling Mays Plastic Surgery & Med Spa to schedule your Louisville, KY, mommy makeover consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Chet Mays today.