After having a baby, most women are eager to get back to their pre-baby bodies. At the MODERN Plastic Surgery & Medspa in New Orleans, LA, we often combine surgical and nonsurgical procedures as part of mommy makeover surgery to help women transform their bodies after pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jules Walters uses a combination of skin tightening and fat reduction methods to help you reclaim your figure.
When considering any elective surgery, it’s important to be aware that you’re putting your body through a significant amount of strain. Diet and exercise play an important part in the healing process and affect your mommy makeover recovery. By following Dr. Walters’ instructions as well as a healthy diet and exercise regimen after your mommy makeover, you can reduce side effects such as swelling and inflammation while ensuring successful healing.
Mommy Makeover Surgery Options
Ideal candidates for a mommy makeover are individuals who have tried to achieve a slimmer appearance through a healthy lifestyle but have seen little improvement. Many women who consider surgical intervention are displeased with issues such as deflated breasts or an undesirable abdominal area. During your consultation, Dr. Walters will take your medical history and learn about your problem areas. He will then create a personalized surgical plan to reshape the areas of concern.
One or more surgeries can be grouped together, such as liposuction of the flanks and abdomen as well as a tummy tuck and breast lift. The surgeries are usually outpatient procedures performed under general anesthesia, lasting 3to 6 hours based on the complexity. You can learn more about how a mommy makeover transforms your body in our related blog post.
Mommy Makeover Recovery Expectations
While Dr. Walters uses breakthrough technology to address excess skin and fat with liposuction, tummy tuck, breast lift, and more, body contouring surgeries are considered invasive since they cover a large portion of the body. As such, mommy makeover recovery is a gradual process that must be taken seriously. The knowledgeable staff at Dr. Jules Walters will supply you with postoperative instructions to follow at home as you rest.
On the day of surgery, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and help you take any required medications for 2 to 3 days. Additionally, patients should plan to have assistance with getting in and out of bed, childcare, meal preparation, and other simple chores around the house. It is best to make these arrangements ahead of time to make your healing journey as seamless as possible.
Mommy Makeover Workout Plan
Patients should expect that moving and walking around will be difficult for the first week. Though the initial recovery could take a few months, the majority of patients can return to a relatively normal routine within a month. Here’s what you can expect in terms of exercise post-surgery:
- Two weeks after surgery: Once the swelling has gone down, we encourage you to participate in light walking around the house to promote healthy circulation. Try not to push yourself too hard during this time.
- Four weeks after surgery: Patients can begin to add more exercise to their routine. Light versions of your favorite workouts, such as yoga, are popular. Avoid any activities that may aggravate the incision areas.
- Six weeks after surgery: Regular exercise can be resumed with the doctor’s approval. See Dr. Walters before you begin strenuous abdominal workouts such as crunches, as these need to be cleared on a case-by-case basis.
Post-Mommy Makeover Diet Plan
As for diet, many of our patients like to pre-plan their meals and snacks so they won’t have to spend time preparing food while in recovery. We suggest placing everything you need, such as water and healthy snacks, within easy reach of your bed or rest area. In the time leading up to your mommy makeover surgery, eat vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables to fight future inflammation and infection. You should also get plenty of exercise and sleep prior to surgery.
Good post-surgery foods include whole grains, green leafy vegetables, and lean proteins. Foods high in vitamins A, C, and E are great for the skin, while vitamin C can promote collagen production within the body. Try to avoid sugary foods as much as you can. We recommend speaking with your primary care physician or dietician about a diet that will help you maintain the results of your mommy makeover. They can help you create a custom plan based on your health and lifestyle.
Reach out To Learn Your Options
No matter how good you feel, it’s essential to follow your postoperative instructions. Take medications as prescribed and wear any required compression garments. Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments so we can continue to monitor your progress.
Certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, Dr. Walters performs the latest treatments in cosmetic surgery. If you are interested in a mommy makeover or other body contouring procedures, request a consultation online or call (504) 517-6200 to schedule your appointment.
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