A mommy makeover is a series of plastic surgery procedures designed for restoring the different parts of your body after childbirth. It typically includes procedures like abdominoplasty, a breast lift, and breast augmentation. A plastic surgeon may also perform liposuction to enhance body contouring.
Abdominoplasty After Childbirth
During pregnancy, the uterus expands in order to accommodate the slowly growing fetus within. As the uterus expands, it pushes against the muscles of the abdominal wall. This creates a condition known as diastasis recti, in which the muscles of the wall have separated and have become loose and drooping.
Abdominoplasty, or the tummy tuck, is a procedure that helps restore your stomach back to a better shape after pregnancy and childbirth. It helps deal with the common changes that can occur in the body during and after pregnancy, including weakened stomach wall muscles, loose abdominal skin, and stretch marks.
This procedure is a brilliant option for women who are seeking to get back to their pre-motherhood body shape. You can once again wear clothes of your choice without feeling awkward or unattractive in them. Abdominoplasty allows new mothers to confidently adorn bathing suits without having to worry about the appearance of their post-pregnancy stomach.
An abdominoplasty procedure will not result in skin tightening in the legs or hips and is not a weight-loss procedure. It works to shape the front of your abdomen. Sometimes, liposuction is prescribed along with abdominoplasty for the posterior hip area.
The Abdominoplasty Procedure
The abdominoplasty surgery can last for a few hours depending on each individual case. Some patients might be required to do an overnight stay in the hospital. General anesthesia is typically administered for an abdominoplasty procedure, and this helps the patient “sleep” during the operation.
In a complete abdominoplasty, an incision will be made from one hipbone to the other. This allows access to the excess fatty tissue and loose muscles. Excess skin and fat will be removed, and the muscles will be tightened with internal sutures. This surgery usually involves the repositioning of the belly button.
Results and Recovery
At the end of the mommy makeover procedure, the patient might require the placement of drainage pipes underneath the skin of the abdomen for a couple of days. This helps to avoid post-surgical buildup of fluids. The operated area will also be bandaged and stitched to promote healing.
It is critical to take note of all the instructions given by your plastic surgeon with regards to caring for the stitches and bandages after surgery. The plastic surgeon will use a firm bandage (elastic band) to encourage quick and proper healing. He will also give you a set of instructions in regards to positioning yourself while lying or sitting to help reduce pain.
Set Up a Consultation
Speak with double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Tal Roudner to learn more about abdominoplasty surgery as part of a mommy makeover package. During a consultation with Dr. Roudner, you can customize your package to fit your desired aesthetic goals. Contact us to schedule your consultation.