As a mom, you’re used to juggling multiple responsibilities for multiple people, but your recovery from surgery is a time when you’ll need to put yourself first. Learning how to prepare for a mommy makeover allows you to step into your procedure with peace of mind, knowing your family, home, and health are set up for success.
Below, I share 7 essential steps I recommend for all of my mommy makeover patients—whether they have kids or not!—to ensure a smooth surgical journey from start to finish.
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1. Optimize Your Health Before Surgery
Healthy habits directly impact your recovery. Stop smoking at least 6-8 weeks before surgery, limit alcohol, eat a balanced diet, and stay hydrated. Light exercise, such as walking, can also help your body prepare for a smoother healing process.
Preparing for a mommy makeover is no different from how we prepare all of our patients for their cosmetic surgeries. This process involves a thorough review of your health, including any medicines you are taking or any medical issues that need to be checked before surgery. My team and I will also advise you on whether you need to stop taking any vitamins, medication, or OTC supplements that can interfere with your healing.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
It’s important to go into surgery with a clear understanding of what a mommy makeover can achieve. While the results can be transformative, they require patience and a proper recovery period. Looking at mommy makeover before and after photos can help you visualize your outcome, but remember, each patient’s journey is unique, and procedure combinations vary.
Popular options include:
- Breast Augmentation
- Breast Lift
- Tummy Tuck
- Liposuction
- Buttock Lift
- Arm Lift
- Back Lift
- Facelift
- Neck Lift
Note: Contrary to what the name suggests, you don’t need to be a mom to benefit from this surgery. Women looking to rejuvenate multiple areas of the body in a single operation can reap the rewards of a mommy makeover.
3. Plan Enough Time Off Work
Many patients are pleasantly surprised to hear that their recovery time is often less than expected. I always advise patients to get in touch with me when they’re considering a particular surgery to understand what they need for time off or, at least, downtime.
Most patients need 10 to 14 days off work to rest and recover. If your job involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may require additional time to heal. Be honest with your employer about your leave and arrange for coverage of your key responsibilities well before your surgery date.
4. Follow Your Pre-Op Instructions
Your pre-op instructions will be unique to your treatment plan. This typically involves stopping certain medications, arranging a ride to and from surgery, and completing any required lab work. Closely following this pre-mommy makeover checklist helps reduce surgical risks and ensures the best possible outcome.
5. Arrange for Help at Home
You’ll need help around the house—especially if you have young children. Enlist your partner, a trusted family member, or a friend to assist with childcare (more on that, below), carpooling, and household chores. Having your support system in place will allow you to focus entirely on your healing without overexerting yourself.
6. Get Ahead on Childcare & Meal Prep
Moms often worry most about managing the family during recovery. Create a childcare schedule with your helpers and prepare freezer-friendly meals ahead of time. Take that last extra trip to the store to stock up on food and other essentials. This preparation will reduce stress and ensure your children’s routines are uninterrupted while you take the time you need to heal.
7. Prepare Your Recovery Space
Before your surgery, set up a comfortable recovery zone at home. Include items like extra pillows to elevate your upper body and a small table stocked with water, snacks, medications, and entertainment devices. Being prepared will make your first days post-op go by more smoothly and with less stress.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to discuss your body contouring and breast enhancement options, I invite you to request a consultation online or call my office at (419) 534-6551 to get started.
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