What Is Recovery Like After a Mommy Makeover?
The same rules apply with our tummy tucks and our mommy makeovers: all patients stay overnight at our facility so we can give you the best care possible. I make sure to be very involved with all aspects of your recovery because a good recovery is as important as your procedure. My nurse and I provide post-op garments, bras, recovery ointments, and scar gels to improve your results. These are all included in the cost of your surgery.
During your recovery, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Silicone adhesive is applied to the tummy tuck incision and will stay on for three weeks.
- Gauze and bandages are applied to your belly button and incisions.
- A support bra and a compression garment will be provided to minimize swelling.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Stay very hydrated.
- Flex your quads and calves to keep blood circulating.
- Avoid strenuous activities for at least one month.
- Expect some tenderness in the treatment areas.
- Medication will be prescribed for pain relief.
- Moisturizers can be applied if your skin is dry, and ointment to the belly button area.
We have a nurse available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for any questions or concerns during your healing process. It is our goal to make your recovery as comfortable as possible, so please do not hesitate to contact us for any reason.
Recovery Timeline
The closest comparison to a tummy tuck is a C-section. If you’ve had a C-section, you’re already a pro at having a mommy makeover; you just don’t know it yet. The scar from a C-section is about the same as a scar from a tummy tuck in a mommy makeover: very low, hidden within any bikini line, just a bit longer. I would actually say that a tummy tuck scar is about three C-section scars in length—just as low and just as thin.
Recovery from a mommy makeover is not really any different from that of a tummy tuck. We talk about the “rule of 2’s” for mommy makeover recovery: two days of downtime as a patient, two weeks off work, and two months until you’re back to full strength at the gym. You can start gently working out around one month after surgery.
Your recovery time will depend on which specific procedures you decide to have. A good rule is to plan on 14 days of being “off duty” at home and at work. During this time, you should find a recliner and take some time to relax and be off your feet. For once!