What is a Mommy Makeover?

Child bearing is very demanding on your body and many women are dissatisfied with their appearance after giving birth. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can have a negative impact on the breasts and abdomen. Mothers find that their breasts have changed in volume and may have begun to sag. Abdominal areas may have stretch marks and be loose no matter the exercise regimen. Many women find it difficult to return to the pre-pregnancy form.

The surgery usually involves improving the appearance of the breasts by replacing lost volume with breast implants. Sometimes a breast lift is also recommended if the nipple position has dropped. The abdomen is improved by performing a tummy tuck which will remove the excess skin and some of the stretch marks. A tummy tuck will also tighten abdominal muscles which may have been stretched apart during pregnancy. Liposuction may also be performed.

Please note, a mommy makeover is not a substitute for weight loss or exercising to achieve the appropriate muscle tone. Ideal candidates for the procedure are women who have completed their childbearing and who are at or as close as they can get to their ideal weight.

Consultation & preparing for the surgery

When meeting with Dr. Mecham will you discuss:

• Surgical goals
• Any medical conditions you may have
• Allergies or past treatments
• Current medications and supplements that you are taking
• Any previous surgeries

During your consultation Dr. Mecham will also:

• Evaluate your general health status
• Examine your body and take detailed measurements
• Take photos for your records
• Discuss liposuction options for you
• Discuss any likely outcomes, as well as risks and potential complications

As with most other surgeries, you may be asked to complete some lab tests or a medical evaluation, be counseled to take certain medications and avoid others such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs as well as some herbal supplements that can increase bleeding.

The Procedure

Step 1: Anesthesia

For your general comfort Dr. Mecham will administer intravenous sedation or general anesthesia for the duration of the surgery.

Step 2: Tummy tuck incision

A tummy tuck involves the surgical removal of excess fat and skin from the abdominal area and also includes the tightening of muscles that have been stretched or weakened from pregnancy.

Step 3: The breast lift incision

During this part of the surgery, excess skin is surgically removed to raise the nipple and tighten the breast. There are a few different incision patterns that can be used depending on patient and surgeon preference.

Step 4: Reshaping your breasts

Underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve contour and firmness. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a natural, more youthful height. If breast volume has been decreased but the size of the breast skin and position of the nipple is still good, Dr. Mecham may recommend a breast implant.

Step 5: Closing the incisions

Sutures are layered deep within the breast tissue and abdomen to create and support the newly shaped breasts and abdomen. After reshaping and excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is tightened as the incisions are closed with sutures.

Recovery and Results

The results of a mommy makeover procedure are immediately visible and will only improve over time as post-surgery swelling goes away and incision lines fade. While you may be very pleased with your “perky” new breasts, it is very important to protect your investment by wearing a supportive bra.

Request a Mommy Makeover Consultation

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