Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can take a toll on a woman's body. Even a healthy diet and regular exercise can still leave moms struggling with a stomach "pooch," sagging breasts, or stretch marks. Procedures that are part of a mommy makeover typically include a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, breast lift, and liposuction. A mommy makeover is a customizable cosmetic procedure that can use body sculpting to help moms refresh their figures for a look they have always desired.
Long Island-area Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery features leading experts in mommy makeovers. During your consultation at our Huntington, NY, office, Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev will provide an in-depth explanation about mommy makeovers and how they can transform your body. A mommy makeover can offer women fat reduction and body contouring for a younger-looking physique. Here are five helpful tips for before and after your mommy makeover so you can be better prepared to love your new look.
The decision to have a mommy makeover
After you have decided to have a mommy makeover, your next step is to prepare for your surgery and recovery. Since a mommy makeover can involve multiple cosmetic procedures, it is beneficial to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Romanelli or Dr. Layliev. During your appointment, they will explain the intricacies of each procedure, including what to expect and tips for recovery.
Tips for surgery preparation
As with any cosmetic procedure, it is a good idea to be prepared for the recovery process. Here are some before-surgery guidelines to follow:
1. Do your homework
The first thing you’ll want to do is select a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon, like Dr. Romanelli or Dr. Layliev at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery. Ask to see before-and-after pictures of actual patients so you can have a better understanding of the techniques used.
2. Arrange help during your recovery
After surgery, you will need help for up to a week. Ask a family member or friend to assist with caring for you, your kids, and your pets so you can rest and recuperate. The recovery process is critical, and when moms feel at ease with who is helping run their household, it benefits everyone.
3. Be prepared for your recovery
You will need time to do nothing but rest and recover. Stock up on groceries, have your medications ready, and have your home ready for you to be out of commission for a little while. Find and prepare a comfortable recovery space, so all you have to do is relax. If you enjoy reading, have books or magazines ready. Make sure you have comfortable clothes available that are easy to put on or button.
4. Good health is key
It always helps to minimize the recovery process when moms are healthy before surgery. For mommy makeovers, it is typically advised that you wait 6 – 9 months after childbirth before scheduling your surgery. As with any surgery, it is recommended that you refrain from smoking and tobacco use before the procedure, as they can increase complications and slow down the healing process.
5. Communicate with your doctor
It is essential that you talk openly with your doctor to get all the information you need. At Long Island-area Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery, your customized mommy makeover surgery will be discussed in detail, including incision sites and implant size if you are having a breast augmentation. It is essential to be candid yet realistic about your expected results.
Post-surgery recommendations
Your final results rely heavily on adhering to the post-surgical recommendations from Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery. Here are some recovery guidelines to follow:
1. Follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions
Your surgeon's follow-up care and protocol instructions are crucial and should be taken seriously. Resting, staying hydrated, avoiding the sun, taking certain medications, movement, etc., are all part of the process. Essentially, following your surgeon's post-operative care instructions will give you a safer and easier recovery so you can enjoy your new look sooner.
2. Rest, rest, and more rest
Resting and not overdoing it, especially during the first two weeks, is beneficial to your final results. Listen to your body and be gentle with it so you can fully recover. Even if you feel better, it is always wise to take it easy so your body can continue to heal.
3. Don’t overdo it
Even after the initial few weeks of recovery are behind you, it is still critical to listen to your body. At this point, you will begin to feel like your old self and likely have more energy. However, there are still some things, like heavy lifting, that must be avoided for about 4 – 6 weeks.
4. Follow-up appointments
Attending follow-up appointments is essential, as a mommy makeover involves different procedures. You may be advised to wear compression garments that will aid in the reduction of swelling and help with the healing process, but the length of time you wear them is dependent on your rate of healing as determined by your surgeon. Post-surgery appointments allow your doctor to assess how you are progressing.
5. Your emotions may be off
Be patient with yourself. Healing and recovery take time and can weigh heavily on your emotions. While it's exciting to see the final changes, in the interim, moms may find themselves tired and frustrated with the recovery process. The good news is that every day that passes brings you that much closer to obtaining the body you have envisioned.
Long Island, NY, moms who are ready to take the next step toward looking great should consider the transformative power of a mommy makeover. Taking the necessary steps before and after your mommy makeover will make the journey much more manageable. Dr. James Romanelli, Dr. John Layliev, and the team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY, are here to help moms feel and look great. If you are ready for a mommy makeover, schedule your consultation with Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery today.
