Mommy Makeover

What is a "Mommy Makeover"?

A mommy makeover is not a single procedure. Instead, it combines body contouring and breast surgery to address multiple concerns during one surgical experience.

Most mommy makeovers performed at North Mississippi Plastic Surgery include:

• Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
• Breast lift (mastopexy)
• Breast augmentation, in select patients
• Breast lift with augmentation

The tummy tuck portion removes excess abdominal skin, tightens stretched abdominal muscles and improves abdominal contour, while the breast procedure restores shape, position and, when desired, breast volume.

Who may benefit from a Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover may be right for patients who:

• Have excess abdominal skin after pregnancy or weight loss
• Have stretched abdominal muscles
• Notice breast sagging or volume loss after pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Are at or near their goal weight
• Have completed childbearing
• Want to address multiple concerns during one surgical plan

A consultation with your surgeon is the best way to determine which procedures are appropriate for your goals.

What to Expect During Surgery

A Personalized Surgical Plan

Every mommy makeover is customized. Depending on your needs, surgery may combine:

• Tummy Tuck & Breast Lift

  This combination addresses loose abdominal skin and muscle separation while restoring a more youthful breast position.

• Tummy Tuck & Breast Augmentation

  For patients who want increased breast volume in addition to body contouring, breast implants may be combined with abdominoplasty.

• Tummy Tuck, Breast Lift & Augmentation

  Some patients benefit from both a lift and implants to restore shape, position and fullness.

Incisions

Incisions vary depending on the procedures performed. Tummy tuck incisions are typically placed low on the abdomen, while breast surgery may involve anchor, lollipop or inframammary incisions depending on the technique used.

Recovery & Healing

Recovery from a mommy makeover combines healing considerations from both abdominal and breast surgery.

Right After Surgery

Patients commonly have:

• Surgical dressings
• An abdominal binder
• A surgical bra
• Surgical drains following the tummy tuck portion of surgery

Walking is encouraged early after surgery to support circulation and recovery.

Returning to Daily Life

Patients should generally:

• Avoid lifting more than 10 pounds
• Avoid raising arms above shoulder level during early recovery
• Wear an abdominal binder for approximately six weeks
• Wear a soft surgical bra and avoid underwire bras during healing

Many patients plan for several weeks away from work depending on job requirements. Recovery timelines vary based on the procedures performed.

Risks & Safety Considerations

All surgery involves risk. Your surgeon will review your individualized risk profile during consultation.

Potential risks may include:

Tummy Tuck–Related Risks

• Fluid collection (seroma)
• Scarring or wound-healing problems
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Asymmetry

Breast Procedure–Related Risks

• Changes in nipple sensation
• Difficulty breastfeeding
• Implant-related complications when implants are used
• Capsular contracture
• Asymmetry
• Infection
• Scarring

Our team takes a safety-first approach before, during and after surgery.

Preparing for Surgery

Smoking & Nicotine Use

Nicotine significantly reduces blood flow and can interfere with healing. Patients must stop smoking and avoid nicotine products before and after surgery according to their surgeon's instructions.

Health Screenings

Your surgeon may recommend:

• Breast imaging or mammography when appropriate
• Medical clearance
• Additional testing based on your health history
   

Follow-Up & Ongoing Care

Follow-up appointments allow your care team to monitor healing and guide your recovery.

Patients will receive detailed instructions regarding:

• Drain care
• Activity restrictions
• Compression garments
• Wound care
• Signs of complications requiring medical attention