Considering a Mommy Makeover?

What is a mommy makeover?

A “mommy makeover” is often a combination of procedures which improve the aesthetics of the breast and abdomen.  With pregnancy, the abdominal muscles may separate from the stretch of pregnancy which is known as diastasis recti.  In addition, with weight gain and loss there may be excess abdominal skin and tissue that was not present prior to pregnancy.  A woman’s breast also changes as a result of pregnancy and breast feeding.  The breast may lose volume and weight loss and breast feeding may result in a deflated more sagging breast. 

What are the procedures often recommended for a mommy makeover?

For improvement of abdominal aesthetics a “tummy tuck”, also known as an abdominoplasty, is often recommended.  This involves removing excess skin and fatty tissue from the lower abdomen, tightening the stretched abdominal muscles, and possible liposuction for excess fatty tissue on your sides.  Breast procedures may include a breast lift (mastopexy) to remove some of the saggy skin and provide relocation of the nipple with or without an implant.  Some patients may need only an implant for increased volume and fullness or may need a reduction of breast tissue due to weight gain from pregnancy.  Dr. Crosby will help you choose the right procedure for you and your body type.

What is mommy guilt?

Mothers who are considering a mommy makeover often feel a sense of guilt.  Why is this?  Mothers are often told to prioritize everyone else before themselves.  A woman can feel shame about spending money or even taking the time away from caring for her children to improve her appearance or how she feels.  Also, mothers may feel that if they have plastic surgery, they are failing to instill an image for their children of self-confidence and self- love.  These are real feelings and understandable.  However, in Dr. Crosby’s experience, when women give themselves something they need to improve how they feel, the result is a more confident, engaged and happy mother for her children.

What to expect after a mommy makeover?

When you choose to have a mommy makeover it will be important to realize that you will need help.  Restrictions on lifting, pushing and pulling will be necessary to provide your body time to heal. Prepare yourself for some stress related to not being able to do everything for the children and allowing others to assist you.  Be patient – there will be swelling, bruising and scars that will get better over time.  By allowing yourself time to heal, you will recover faster and get the best results from your investment in yourself. For a consultation with Dr. Melissa Crosby, to see if a mommy makeover is right for you, call us at 832-939-8500.