Mommy makeover preparation involves both physical plans and mental preparations. It’s just as important that you are emotionally prepared for the procedure as it is that you are physically prepared.
The following tips will help set yourself up for success as you prepare for mommy makeover surgery.
Preparation for Mommy Makeover: Top Tips
1. Attend a consultation appointment and do your research.
Before scheduling your mommy makeover, thoroughly research potential surgeons and schedule consultations to find the best fit for your goals and needs. Every surgeon presents a unique approach to surgery and has varied experience.
Find a board certified plastic surgeon who matches your expectations and who can address your concerns in a suitable manner. We recommend looking closely at their mommy makeover before and after photos as well.
2. Set realistic mommy makeover expectations.
Understand that while a mommy makeover can certainly enhance your appearance and boost your confidence, it’s also important to have realistic expectations. The best mommy makeover surgeon can provide helpful insight into what is achievable based on your anatomy, body type, extent of your stretch marks or condition, and medical history.
3. Plan for recovery time.
Prepare for the mommy makeover recovery period by arranging for help with childcare, errands, household chores, self-care, and work responsibilities. You will not be able to do some of your normal activities right after surgery, and asking for help is a good idea.
4. Follow preoperative instructions.
Adhere closely to your surgeon’s preoperative instructions. Every surgeon will give you different guidelines on how to best prepare for surgery in terms of prescription medications to take (or adjust), diet, and other steps. Blood thinning medications, for example, will need to be adjusted prior to your surgery.
Taking these prep steps should help to minimize your risks and maximize optimal results.
5. Complete necessary tests.
Before surgery, some patients need additional testing to ensure they qualify as candidates. Undergo these tests as you are instructed, and remember that they will typically be billed directly to you (separately) and not as a part of your surgery bill.
6. Arrange for transportation to and from surgery.
Be sure to set up transportation to and from the hospital surgical facility. This will need to be arranged for the day of your mommy makeover. Most of these procedures are outpatient. Ensure you choose a friend or family member you trust.
7. Prepare your home.
During the initial healing period, especially, you’ll want a comfy zone in your home where you can relax, take naps, and generally rest. Set this up however you see fit, but be sure to be comprehensive about your preparations by including anything and everything that will make this time period easier on you.
8. Stock up on essentials.
Before your mommy makeover procedure, stock up on essential food items like easy-to-prepare meals, snacks, and beverages that you can have on-hand during your recovery. You won’t want to make regular trips to the store after your plastic surgery procedures, and you should also be eating healthy meals whenever possible.
9. Stay hydrated.
Maintain good hydration by having a water bottle with you everywhere during your mommy makeover recovery.
10. Quit smoking.
If you smoke, you must quit prior to surgery and continue to avoid smoking during the recovery period.
11. Arrange for childcare.
If you have children, be sure to make arrangements for childcare during your surgery and the initial recovery period. Remember you will not be able to lift anything heavy right after surgery, so if you have babies or small children, you will need assistance.
12. Follow a healthy diet.
Prioritize protein and an overall balanced diet during your recovery. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains into every meal. Avoid too much snacking, lots of sodium, alcohol, and excessive caffeine.
13. Get moving.
All patients must avoid rigorous workouts close to their surgery date. Being too active following invasive cosmetic procedures can work your body too hard, potentially causing a blood clot, ruining incisions, causing more noticeable mommy makeover scars, and even putting your overall health at risk.
14. Arrange for support.
14. Arrange for support.Lean on close friends and family to assist you during your recovery period. Serious plastic surgery procedures like tummy tuck surgery or an invasive breast procedure (both typically included in mommy makeover surgeries) require a lot of rest and sometimes, a lot of help. Having a strong support system can make a big difference in your overall experience.
15. Manage stress.
Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage preoperative anxiety and promote relaxation during your recovery.
16. Get plenty of rest.
Quality sleep is essential for overall health and wellbeing, especially as you heal from your surgery. Prioritize sleep at night, and rest and relax during the day. Don’t push yourself too hard.
17. Prepare for emotional changes.
Understand that undergoing a mommy makeover can bring about emotional changes, including feelings of vulnerability, excitement, and anxiety. This is normal! Seek support if you need help, and be kind to yourself during this difficult time.
18. Trust the process.
Lastly, trust in your surgeon’s expertise and the process of your mommy makeover journey. It can be tempting to rush ahead and want to see results right away, but have patience. A breast surgery or body contouring procedure can take months to reveal final results.
FAQ: Mommy Makeover Surgery
What not to do before mommy makeover?
In the weeks prior to surgery, be sure to avoid taking any pain medication or herbal supplements not cleared by your surgeon, do not smoke, do not drink alcohol, and do not skimp on sleep.
What does a mommy makeover procedure include?
Most mommy makeover procedures consist of a tummy tuck to reduce excess skin, liposuction to removal excess fat, and a breast surgery such as breast augmentation (breast implants), a breast lift, or breast reduction. In some cases, Brazilian butt lift surgery or any other surgical procedure may also be included.
Book Your Mommy Makeover Consultation Appointment
Interested in getting your pre baby body back? Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg performs mommy makeover surgical procedures for patients at her Houston practice. To learn more about mommy makeovers, please contact our office and set up a consultation appointment with Dr. Steinberg.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-a-mommy-makeover
