- Breast augmentation: Used to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts with implants.
- Breast lift: Removes excess skin and tissue to lift sagging breasts.
- Liposuction: Removes excess fat from various parts of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs and buttocks.
- Abdominoplasty: Also known as a “tummy tuck”, this procedure removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles to achieve a flat, firm abdomen.
- Abdominal muscle repair: Sometimes the abdominal muscles are tightened and repaired to improve the tone and shape of the abdomen.
Methods
A mommy makeover involves careful planning and tailoring of the procedures to achieve the desired aesthetic results, taking into account the individual needs and goals of each patient. This comprehensive treatment usually follows several steps:
- Consultation and planning: The first step is a detailed consultation with the surgeon, during which the patient's wishes and expectations are discussed. The surgeon will assess her anatomy and the condition of her body and propose the combination of procedures that best suits her needs.
- Examination and preparation: Before the procedure, the patient will be examined to determine whether she is a candidate for a mommy makeover. At this stage certain pre-operative tests may also be needed to ensure safety during surgery.
- Surgical procedures: A mommy makeover may include a combination of different procedures, such as breast augmentation or a breast lift, liposuction, abdominoplasty and abdominal muscle repair. The surgeon will perform each procedure carefully, using the latest techniques and technologies.
- Recovery: After surgery, the patient is moved to the recovery room, where she is monitored by the medical staff until she wakes up from anaesthesia. After a mommy makeover, the patient must follow the surgeon's instructions on post-operative care and recovery, including wearing a compression garment or bra, avoiding strenuous activities and attending regular check-ups.
- Check-ups and follow-up: During recovery, the patient will have regular check-ups with the surgeon to monitor progress and ensure optimal results. The surgeon will also give guidance and advice on long-term body care to maintain the results of the mommy makeover.
Anaesthesia
Mommy makeover procedures are performed under general anaesthesia. The patient is completely asleep and unconscious throughout. This allows the surgeon to carry out all the necessary procedures without interruption, while the patient feels no pain or discomfort. The anaesthesiologist monitors the patient's vital functions throughout the procedure.
The anaesthesiologist will choose the most suitable type of anaesthesia based on the patient's health, the extent of the procedure and individual preferences. It is important that the patient discusses all aspects of anaesthesia in detail with her anaesthesiologist before surgery, to ensure a safe and comfortable experience during the mommy makeover.
A mommy makeover usually takes between 4 and 6 hours, but this can be shorter or longer depending on the extent of the procedures needed. For example, a combination of a breast lift, abdominoplasty and liposuction may take longer than just one of these procedures.
Recovery
Recovery after a mommy makeover can differ for each patient and depends on the complexity of the procedure, the patient's individual characteristics and her general health. This is a general overview of what patients can expect during the recovery period:
- Pain and swelling: Expect a certain level of discomfort, pain and swelling in the operated areas, especially in the first days after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe painkillers to relieve the discomfort.
- Activity restrictions: Patients usually need to avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects for several weeks after a mommy makeover. Your surgeon will advise you on when you can resume normal activities and exercise.
- Follow-up visits: Regular check-ups with your surgeon are important during recovery to monitor wound healing, assess the results of the surgery and address any problems or complications.
- Wearing a compression garment or bra: Your surgeon may recommend wearing a compression garment or a special bra for support and to reduce swelling during recovery.
- Recovering from anaesthesia: After surgery you may feel drowsy and disoriented because of the effects of anaesthesia. This is normal and usually passes within a few hours.
- Emotional recovery: It is important to have realistic expectations and to give yourself time to get used to the changes brought about by the mommy makeover. Support from family and friends can be a great help during this period.
After a mommy makeover, the patient usually stays in hospital for one day so that her condition can be monitored by the medical staff.
Throughout the recovery period it is important to follow your surgeon's instructions and guidelines carefully to ensure a safe and successful recovery. If you notice any unusual symptoms or problems, contact your medical team immediately.