Your Mommy Makeover Recovery Timeline

A Mommy Makeover doesn’t just change how your body looks, but it also changes how you feel about yourself. More women than ever before are opting for Mommy Makeovers to look younger and feel better.

If you’re considering a Mommy Makeover, you’re probably thinking about the result and feeling optimistic. This is especially true if you’ve seen before-and-after photos or have already spoken with your plastic surgeon about a breast lift, tummy tuck, and other procedures.

While the hope of your results is a great motivator, it is important to consider all the aspects of your Mommy Makeover process. This includes taking a realistic look at your recovery period. 

Today we take a deep dive into Mommy Makeover surgery recovery so you’re prepared for the weeks ahead.

What Your Mommy Makeover Will Include

Your recovery will depend on which procedures you choose. A Mommy Makeover may include any of the following:

• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
• Breast lift (mastopexy)
• Breast augmentation (implants, liposuction transfer, or both)
• Liposuction
• Labiaplasty 

Your plastic surgeon may recommend other techniques as well. Remember that every Mommy Makeover is different. You and your doctor can decide what procedures are best for your goals.

Mommy Makeover Recovery Timeline

Your recovery can go much smoother (and deliver fewer surprises) if you know what to expect.

While recovery times can vary depending on which plastic surgery procedures you have and your body’s healing process, the timeline below can help you prepare for the days and weeks ahead.

Day of Surgery (Day 1) 

• Once you wake from your Mommy Makeover, you will be asked to stand and walk a short distance. Movement after surgery can help prevent blood clots. Strenuous activity will be prohibited, but gentle walking is recommended.
• You will not be able to drive yet. Your plastic surgeon will ask you to have a ride home arranged in advance.
• You may notice some bruising and swelling right away.
• Some patients feel nauseous immediately after surgery.
• You will be given medicine to take home, or you will be given a prescription for pain medications.
• You will probably be given compression garments to wear.

Days 2-6

• Since the Mommy Makeover is an outpatient procedure, most patients go home on the night of their surgery. If not, they will return home on day 2.
• You will notice swelling and bruising by this point. This is normal.
• You should not lift children, pets, or anything heavy.
• Get lots of rest, but do walk each day. Ask your plastic surgeon how much activity you should get at this stage.
• Because you will be sore and stiff, you might need help with changing compression garments and with activities such as preparing meals.

Week 2

• Many Mommy Makeover patients say this is their most challenging week, so be prepared. Make sure you’ve asked a friend or family member to help you during this time.
• Continue with whatever movement program your doctor has advised (such as short walks around the house).
• Don’t overdo things. You need plenty of rest, including short naps. Small amounts of exertion will be tiring during this time.

Week 3

• Most Mommy Makeover patients begin to feel a little better during this time.
• If your discomfort is manageable, your doctor will likely transition you from prescription to over-the-counter pain medication.
• You may still be more easily tired out than usual. Take naps if possible.
• Your plastic surgeon may approve your return to work if you have no complications and feel well enough to do so.
• Continue with whatever movement program your doctor has advised (you will probably still be advised to take short walks around the house).
• You may be able to start driving again. Ask your doctor if you’re healed enough to drive.

Week 4

• You should begin to feel less tired at this time.
• You can return to most jobs.
• If your healing is going well, you can walk longer distances.
• Your scars may be sore to the touch, but you’ll notice they have closed. Important: if your incisions are not closing, advise your doctor right away.
• You are probably driving by now.
• Your swelling is beginning to go down, as is much of the bruising you noticed in the previous three weeks.

Weeks 5-8

• Residual swelling can continue for up to three months.
• The bruises should have disappeared or be nearly gone by now.
• If your healing is going well, you can go back to your previous exercise routine. Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon if you’re ready for aerobic, weight resistance, or other forms of exercise.
• If you’re still feeling very fatigued, let your doctor know. However, most Mommy Makeover patients are returning to being “themselves” after two months.

If Your Recovery Looks Different Than the Timeline Above

Every plastic surgery patient is different, and Mommy Makeover procedures vary. Your healing may not follow the exact timeline above. 

While most Mommy Makeover patients follow the schedule above, give or take a couple of days or weeks.

If you’re feeling extreme discomfort after the first three weeks, are excessively fatigued, or if your incisions aren’t closing, speak to your doctor. And make sure you go to all your post-operative appointments as scheduled. 

By communicating with your doctor and following their instructions, you can look forward to a smooth Mommy Makeover recovery.