Pregnancy is an amazing experience, but growing a whole new life can take a toll on a woman's body. Though the changes that occur in a woman's body after childbirth are nothing to be ashamed of, many women wish to restore their former shape. A mommy makeover may include a variety of body contouring procedures to streamline the physique and help women feel the confidence they had with their pre-baby body.
When considering a mommy makeover, it is important to understand that some time will be necessary for recovery. Dr. Lloyd Van Wyck explains to patients what to expect during their mommy makeover recovery during consultations at his Ottawa, ON practice. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Wyck to receive your personalized recovery information. In the meantime, read this overview to get a general idea of what to expect during mommy makeover recovery.
What to Expect during Recovery
Every mommy makeover recovery is unique and the individual experience will vary based on the type and number of procedures performed, along with personal healing times. While most women are recovered enough to return to their normal routines within four to six weeks after surgery, your experience may differ. The following are some common things to expect during a typical mommy makeover recovery.
- Expect pain, swelling, and bruising: Patients should expect to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising after surgery. Pain medications are typically prescribed to alleviate discomfort and manage pain during recovery. Swelling may be decreased by applying ice compresses and elevating the affected areas. Compression garments may also be worn, especially by those who have undergone an abdominoplasty, to help reduce swelling and support the tissues as they heal. Pain, swelling, and bruising should subside over the coming days and weeks. If pain or swelling become worse, it may be a sign of infection or other complication and should be brought to a doctor's attention immediately.
- Plan for time off from work: Mommy makeover patients will need to plan to take time off from work during the initial stages of recovery. The length of time off required will vary per person, but will generally range from one to two weeks.
- Avoid strenuous activity, including picking up children: After many mommy makeover procedures, it is important to avoid strenuous activity and rigorous exercise, as well as lifting up children, as this can cause stitches to tear, swelling to become more severe, or other complications. Strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks and until approved by your doctor in a post-operative checkup.
- Arrange for help with children: Mothers who have undergone mommy makeovers benefit from having help caring for their children (and themselves) during recovery. This is particularly important for mothers of young children.
- Arrange transportation: Patients cannot drive while on certain pain medications and are advised not to drive for at least seven to 10 days after surgery. Patients will need to arrange for someone to drive them to appointments or take care of errands. This also means transportation will need to be arranged for children's appointments, extracurricular activities, and school drop-offs and pick-ups.
Tips for Recovery
It can be difficult for moms to get a moment's rest, but it's essential for a quick and healthy recovery after a mommy makeover. Preparing for recovery by arranging for help around the house, help with childcare, and help with personal needs can allow those who have had a mommy makeover get the rest their bodies need to heal and recover.
Also, preparing a recovery area before surgery can allow patients to rest as soon as they get home. Some ways to prepare include gathering fluffy pillows, comfortable clothes, ice packs, healthy snacks, and bottled water.
Additionally, following all pre- and post-operative instructions and attending all follow-up appointments can help ensure a speedy recovery and prevent complications.
Find out More about Mommy Makeovers
For more information about mommy makeovers, including answers to your questions about recovery or treatment options, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Van Wyck.
