What Is A Mommy Makeover?
A mommy makeover is a combination of procedures that usually focus on the breast and abdominal areas. The procedures focus on areas commonly impacted or changed during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. It can also be a procedure used after dramatic weight loss.
A mommy makeover procedure may include:
- Breast lift to reposition breasts
- Breast augmentation to add fullness and volume to breasts
- Abdominal-related procedures may include:
- Tummy tuck to remove excess skin
- Liposuction/Lipocontouring to shape the waist and remove excess fat
- Diastasis recti repair to rejoin internal stomach muscles
Benefits of Getting A Mommy Makeover
There are many benefits to getting a mommy makeover including increased confidence, increased enjoyment in clothes and feeling like you have your body “back" after pregnancy or weight loss.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Mommy Makeover?
Any woman who has been pregnant or anyone who has had dramatic weight loss may be a good candidate for a mommy makeover.
It is usually recommended to have a mommy makeover after you are done having kids or after significant weight loss to get the most benefit from the procedure.
What is the Cost of a Mommy Makeover?
While a mommy makeover can bring about a significant physical change for a woman, they are also a significant investment. It should be seen as a once-in-a-lifetime procedure that requires financial planning.
According to Dr. Wang, a mommy makeover can cost between $10,000 to $20,000 depending on which procedures are used.
How Can I Pay For A Mommy Makeover?
There are a variety of payment options for a mommy makeover. Saving and budgeting can be key when it comes to making a decision about the procedure.
Financing part or all procedures are also a way to cover the costs of a mommy makeover. Thinking through and planning for the monthly payment for financing a mommy makeover can help patients make a good financial decision.
What Should I Look For In a Plastic Surgeon?
According to Dr. Wang, you should look for a plastic surgeon who is qualified as a board-certified plastic surgeon with ample experience. Patients should also find a surgeon they can trust, someone who listens to their concerns and goals and is upfront about any potential risks or challenges.
What Questions Should I Ask in a Mommy Makeover Consultation?
While the internet provides ample opportunities for patients to research procedures and surgeon backgrounds before a consultation, Dr. Wang says that it is still valuable to ask questions about the surgeon's experiences — both success stories and times when things didn't go as planned. A surgeon should be comfortable talking about how they will mitigate complications and handle challenges that may arise.
What Are the Potential Risks of a Mommy Makeover?
If the patient is healthy, mommy makeovers are usually very safe. However, just like any surgical procedure, mommy makeovers can have potential risks such as:
- Fluid build-up
- Blood clotting
- Infection
- Healing delays
How to Prepare for a Mommy Makeover?
Dr. Wang recommends patients be active as patients don't want a lot of weight shifts post-procedure. He also recommends eating well in the weeks before the procedure. Going into the procedure with optimal nutrition will help assist in the healing process.
What to Expect from a Mommy Makeover Recovery?
After a mommy makeover, patients will need ample rest and the support of others for daily activities during the initial recovery phase. Dr. Wang gives his patients the following timeframe:
- 3 weeks after surgery: can resume more normal daily activities
- 6 weeks after surgery: can resume exercising
- 3 months after surgery: no restrictions for most patients
CareCredit Financing for a Mommy Makeover
Ready to help revitalize your appearance and boost your confidence? The CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for mommy makeovers and related expenses not covered by health insurance.** Apply today and use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic surgeon near you that accepts CareCredit so you can stop dreaming and start living your best life. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go, and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts, and videos.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Stewart Wang
Dr. Wang is a California-based board-certified plastic surgeon and the medical director of Wang Plastic Surgery and Med Spa with offices in Pasadena, Upland and Santa Ana. A member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), Wang focuses primarily on mommy makeovers, natural-looking facial rejuvenation, and laser body contouring.
Author Bio
Kate Bayless is an experienced health and wellness freelance writer with 15 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Parents, Women's Health, Beachbody, and OpenFit.