It’s round three of our series on mommy makeover surgery. First, a quick recap. In post one, local mom Riana shared her mommy makeover experience and its positive impact on her self-confidence. Post two explained the basics on popular mommy makeover procedures.
This time, we’re talking about recovery. An important aspect of plastic surgery for any patient to consider, it’s especially important for moms, who have their kids’ needs to worry about as well as their own. The good news is that keeping the family healthy and happy while you recover is absolutely possible—with some thoughtful planning. Let’s dive in.
How long does mommy makeover recovery take?
Patients typically need at least 1 to 2 weeks away from work and daily activities, depending on their procedure plan and what their “normal” day looks like. If you are having a more involved procedure (e.g., a tummy tuck) or multiple procedures as part of your mommy makeover, you can expect downtime to be on the longer side, about 2 to 3 weeks.
Following this initial recovery period, you will still need to be cautious when it comes to physical activities, particularly anything vigorous that could affect results. You’ll typically get your plastic surgeon’s OK to move without restriction after a few months.
If being out of commission for 1 to 3 weeks sounds like a long time, remember that combining procedures means you’ll have only one recovery process. And, while the first week or two is often challenging, you will feel like yourself again pretty quickly.
Just be sure not to overdo it! If you want to get the best results, follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions to the letter.
Speaking of results, most patients feel photo- or swimsuit-ready about 3 to 4 months after surgery. By this time, swelling has dramatically subsided, breast implants have settled, and scars are healing nicely, if you’ve followed aftercare instructions (more on that below). Results will continue to improve for up to a year after surgery.
How long will I need childcare after surgery?
Depending on the procedures you choose and the age of your children, you will need childcare help for up to 6 weeks. Generally, more extensive procedures + younger children = more help needed.
Here’s a general timeline: 24/7 childcare is mandatory for at least the first 3 days after having surgery. Post-op discomfort usually peaks at 3 to 5 days, and you will tire easily. In fact, you will need a lot of care yourself at first, including someone to drive, help you in and out of bed, to the bathroom, etc. as anesthesia effects wear off.
Many patients arrange to have a grandparent stay with them for the first week (or send the kids to grandma’s) to make things easier and allow their spouse or partner to continue to work and pitch in with meal prep, etc.
Once you are cleared to drive, work, and resume light housework—usually within 2 to 3 weeks—you’ll still need help with heavy lifting. Bending, straining, and lifting over 10 pounds is strictly off-limits for several weeks after breast and body surgery, so factor this in when planning for childcare needs. Delegate tasks like bathing and dressing the kids, laundry, loading the car, etc., to your partner and recruit friends to help with errands.
Things you can do to make mommy makeover recovery easier
Following your plastic surgeon’s instructions is the single most important thing to do to minimize risk for complications and ensure your results heal beautifully. Here are other things my past patients say helped them keep stress to a minimum and smiles to a max:
- Prep a week’s worth of meals before surgery. This ensures nutritious food is readily available and minimizes the workload of keeping the family fed. Meal delivery subscriptions can be a great option if your partner likes to cook or you have kids that are old enough to help with putting meals together.
- Convert your bedroom into a recovery “suite.” Invest in some comfortable, sturdy pillows to help prop up your head and shoulders, as you will have to sleep on your back for several weeks—and quality sleep is essential to optimal healing. Place a side table with plenty of room for food trays, cups, and books for easy access.
- Stock up on kid- and couch-friendly activities. When you can’t pick them up or carry them as usual, snuggle time will be priceless. Playing board games, coloring, or reading to your kids lets you spend quality time together when you’re unable to handle more active tasks.
Truthfully, moms are the strongest patients I work with—you are superheroes in my book. While plastic surgery recovery takes planning, patience, and lots of self-care, most patients tell me the process was easier than they’d imagined, especially after the first week. If you are ready to learn more about mommy makeover surgery, please contact my office at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre (LJCSC) to schedule a complimentary consultation.
About Dr. Hector Salazar: Dr. Salazar is a board certified plastic surgeon well-known for his exceptional patient care and natural-looking results. He serves patients at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, an award-winning, full service cosmetic surgery practice and medical spa that has been helping patients in San Diego and beyond look and feel fabulous for 30 years.
