After pregnancy and breastfeeding, many women yearn to reclaim their pre-pregnancy bodies. A mommy makeover allows you to combine treatments and transform your appearance during a single procedure. However, your transformation doesn’t happen overnight. Having a thorough and realistic understanding of your mommy makeover recovery timeline is helpful before committing to such a transformative procedure.
Don’t let fear of the unknown stop you from pursuing your “dream” procedure. We’re breaking down what to expect during your mommy makeover recovery, week by week, so you can plan accordingly for optimal healing and results.
How Long Is Mommy Makeover Recovery?
Just like there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mommy makeover surgery, recovery time can vary depending on the customized combination of procedures your surgery includes. For example, recovery from our ultimate mommy makeover takes longer than the other tiered solutions we offer. However, most women should expect to set aside at least 2-3 weeks of downtime for their mommy makeover recovery.
Top Questions About Mommy Makeover Recovery
During your surgical consultation, I make every effort to address all of your mommy makeover questions and concerns. Some of the most common questions patients ask about their recovery are:
When can I sleep on my side after mommy makeover surgery?
Following your surgery, the safest way to sleep is on a recliner, if possible, while laying on your back with your head and shoulders slightly elevated. This helps minimize swelling and discomfort while directing blood flow throughout the body. After about 6 weeks post-op, sleeping on your side is usually OK.
How long after mommy makeover can I exercise?
About 6 weeks after surgery, most patients can resume light to moderate exercise. We advise you to wait about 9 weeks before returning to vigorous workouts.
How long after mommy makeover can I drink alcohol?
Following a mommy makeover or any surgery, it is usually best to avoid drinking alcohol for at least 6 weeks. It’s absolutely essential to refrain from alcohol until you have finished taking prescribed antibiotics or pain medications.
Your Week By Week Recovery Timeline
Not that we’ve specifically addressed some of your burning mommy makeover questions, let’s provide a general overview of what to expect throughout your mommy makeover recovery timeline.
Week 1
Your body has just endured many sudden changes, and it needs time to recover from the shock of combination surgery. Your mobility should be limited to getting up for bathroom breaks and taking short walks to boost your blood circulation… that’s virtually it! It’s crucial to rely on a pre-arranged support team of family, friends, or caregivers who can help you handle household chores or caregiving duties while you rest and heal.
Week 2 to 3
By the end of week 2, most patients are weaned off pain medications and cleared to drive. While you should still take it easy, you are probably ready to return to work unless your job is physically strenuous. While you are starting to feel more like yourself, your body is still in the early stages of healing. It’s essential to adhere to the restrictions outlined in your post-op protocol to avoid harming your incisions.
Weeks 4 to 6
Congrats, you’re heading into the home stretch of healing! During these pivotal weeks, residual swelling gradually diminishes while your energy level increases. If you’ve had a tummy tuck, you can wean off your abdominal binder. You no longer need to wear a surgical bra around the clock if your procedure includes a breast augmentation or breast lift. If liposuction was part of your treatment plan, most bruising has decreased. Your incisions are newly pink, and you can begin to appreciate your post-surgical transformation! Most patients are thrilled to learn they can resume regular exercise. However, intense workouts should still be avoided for a few more weeks.
Week 9 & Beyond
You’ve made it! It’s OK to return to vigorous exercise and activities. Even better, it’s time to shop for clothes that show off your stunning post-op physique! And, while life has returned to “normal,” remember that achieving your final mommy makeover results can take 6 to 12 months as swelling fully resolves and scars gradually fade.
Mommy Makeover Recovery Tips
How you approach your recovery can significantly impact your mommy makeover healing and results. These tips can ease healing and empower you to have a better overall experience:
Plan accordingly: Scour your calendar to ensure your mommy makeover occurs during a window that allows for ample rest and recovery. Stock your house with mommy makeover recovery supplies to make healing comfortable and seamless. Hang up your cape and allow your support team to pitch in while you rest, especially during the first 2 to 3 weeks of your recovery.
Stick to your protocol: It’s essential to closely follow your post-op protocol throughout your healing timeline, especially when you feel tempted to take on more than you should. Remember that overdoing it can jeopardize healing. Your recovery timeline is designed to prioritize your health and safety while maximizing your surgical results.
Keep it real: While we understand how eager you are to see—and show off—your mommy makeover results, patience is key. Trust the healing process and keep your expectations in check. Your results will take time, but they will be fabulous. Remember that full mommy makeover results can take up to 6 months, but your transformation will be worth the wait!
Now that you know what to expect during recovery, are you ready to regain your pre-baby body and self-confidence with a mommy makeover? Let’s get started! Please use our online form to request a consultation or call us at (713) 571-0600.
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