Mommy Makeover Recovery: What Patients Can Expect
A woman's body changes after having a child. To help restore your appearance to what it was before pregnancy and childbirth, there's mommy makeover surgery. This combination of body contouring procedures combines breast lift, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), thigh lift, and other tightening and toning surgeries to help you look your best.
Mommy makeovers have helped countless patients throughout the Fort Worth area. We'd like to turn our attention not to the surgery per se but rather the recovery process. This is an important part of ensuring great results.
How Much Time Should I Take Off from Work?
Since a mommy makeover involves a combination of body contouring procedures that are not set in stone, the time off from work can vary depending on the procedures performed. Generally, mommy makeover patients should expect to take at least two weeks off from work. Three weeks off from work may be advisable for patients who have undergone a major mommy makeover. More time may be required if your work in a physically demanding profession.
As you return to work and normal job duties, it's of the utmost importance that you take things slow. It may be a good idea to avoid certain activities at work (e.g., heavy lifting) until you have fully recovered.
Common Side Effects After a Mommy Makeover
The most common side effects after a mommy makeover include the following:
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Pain and Discomfort – Soreness and pain in various forms are to be expected after undergoing a major body contouring surgery. Getting proper rest and taking pain relievers as instructed can help reduce your level of pain.
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Bruising and Swelling – Bruising and swelling is common after any surgery. The major bruising tends to last two weeks, with residual bruising lasting for another few weeks after that. Major swelling typically dissipates after two to three weeks, though varying degree of minor swelling can last for several weeks after that. Wearing compression garments and using cold compresses can help manage these side effects.
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Numbness or Tingling – Numbness and tingling are common along the incision sites, especially the breasts. As your body heals, these sensations should be less noticeable and less frequent.
If you notice these side effects getting worse, be sure to speak with your surgeon as soon as possible.
Walk to Promote Circulation as You Recover
As patients heal, it's important that they not remain in bed all day. This can lead to the formation of blood clots that can result in dangerous health complications. Patients are encouraged to walk a few minutes a day as they are healing. This prevents blood clots by promoting circulation, and it's a good way to ease yourself back into a normal routine.
Attend Follow-up Visits with Your Surgeon as Scheduled
A few follow-up visits with your surgeon are scheduled in order to monitor your recovery. Be sure to attend all of these as scheduled to prevent complications and ensure the best results possible. The first follow-up typically occurs during the first week after surgery, with subsequent visits spaced a weeks apart as patients continue to heal.
Learn More About Mommy Makeovers
If you would like more information about mommy makeovers, and the many other lift and contouring procedures that we offer, be sure to contact Tarrant Plastic Surgery today. Our team will work closely with you to ensure optimal outcomes and a problem-free recovery.
