Giving birth is a beautiful and miraculous thing, but it changes the body in so many different ways. Some of these changes can eventually be reversed with diet and exercise, but other physical changes, such as stretched out skin and stubborn fats, can only be treated with surgery.

Fortunately, there’s a package-deal type of surgery specifically tailored to meet the singular needs of mothers who want to restore various parts of their post-pregnancy bodies.

The mommy makeover is a combination of procedures which commonly includes breast lift, breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tuck. Women who are unhappy with their bodies after childbirth can greatly benefit from this treatment because it’s more cost effective to have multiple surgeries at once.

A mommy makeover will not only reverse and correct unwanted signs of childbirth, but it will also help women to fully embrace the joy of motherhood without having to feel uncomfortable or self-conscious about their bodies. With the technology and techniques available today, the mommy makeover is better than ever and many mothers are now taking advantage of these new possibilities.

Surgical procedures included in the mommy makeover package:

• Breast Augmentation. During pregnancy, breasts increase in size as the mammary glands fill with milk. However, after breastfeeding, the mammary glands return to their original size, leaving the skin stretched. Breast augmentation is the best way to restore the firmness and shape of the breasts. Breast implants are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to improve the appearance of breasts that have lost their volume and fullness after pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Breast Lift. Breast lift surgeries are done to eliminate extra skin and reshape the breasts’ natural tissues, making them look more perky and youthful. To achieve the best results, breast lift surgeries are usually combined with breast augmentation.
• Liposuction is an effective way to eliminate fat deposits from various problem areas such as the abdomen, legs, upper arms and buttocks.
• Tummy Tuck. The abdominal muscles are stretched and pulled apart during pregnancy, which causes loose skin to accumulate in the midsection. A tummy tuck tightens the abdominal muscles by removing excess skin and fats for a smoother, flatter appearance.

Things to consider when choosing the mommy makeover:

• A mommy makeover is a great way to fix body issues, but this treatment would be more ideal for women who are not planning on having any more children. Getting pregnant after a mommy makeover will not hurt your child, but the benefits of a tummy tuck, for instance, can be reduced after having another child if your skin and muscles are once again stretched significantly. If you’re considering a mommy makeover, we recommend that you wait until you’ve finished building your family.
• You are going to need some help with daily chores and other responsibilities from your friends or family for the first few days after your treatment. Make sure to plan everything in advance before undergoing a mommy makeover so that you can have a smooth and healthy recovery.
• A mommy makeover can be a life-changing experience. Although there may be a lot of surgeons who can perform these set of procedures, you need to be careful when choosing your plastic surgeon. Choose someone you’re comfortable with, and make sure that he or she is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.

The overall length of recovery following a mommy makeover varies from patient to patient. Like most women, you’ll be excited to see the final results of your makeover, but be patient with the process and keep in mind that a hurried recovery might decrease your chances of a favorable outcome.

Here are a few tips to ensure that your recovery period is as comfortable as possible:

Know what to expect after surgery

Your surgeon will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions that should be strictly followed for a successful recovery. Generally, you can expect to be bandaged, wearing special compression garments, and you may even have some surgical drains. Again, careful attention to following instructions is important to ensure normal healing after surgery. If you’re uncertain about anything, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon for clarification.

It is normal to experience some discomfort, bruising, and swelling for the first few weeks after your mommy makeover. It is usually hard for mothers to refrain from their day to day activities with their kids, but ample rest following surgery is the key to a speedy recovery.

Get your supplies ready and set up a “recovery space”

Take at least 2 to 3 weeks off work for recuperation and arrange your bedroom or living room into a recovery area dedicated to rest and relaxation. Before your surgery, stock your recovery area with some reading materials, a TV and remote, blankets, soft pillows, bottles of water, and lots of snacks so that you won’t have to get up more than necessary.

You will be pretty sore after your mommy makeover, so you’ll need to stay in bed and get as much sleep as possible. Having your own private space will make it a lot easier for you to get through the recovery period.

Line up some help for the first few weeks

Make sure you have a friend, family member, or hired help around to assist you during the first couple of weeks following the surgery. Recovering from a mommy makeover is tough, and you’re going to need someone to help you with your day to day needs, including taking care of your children.

Post-surgical recovery could take several weeks or months depending on the specific procedures involved in your personal mommy makeover. Heading back to work early or attempting to do more than you feel comfortable with may slow down the process. Refrain from heavy physical activity until you have your doctor’s permission. Everyone progresses differently. Try not to feel frustrated if your progress is taking longer than you anticipated and remember that this is a major surgery.

A few more tips for a speedy recovery:

• Eat well-balanced meals and drink lots of fluids.
• Set an alarm for the first few days to make sure you’ll remember to take medication.
• Try sleeping with several pillows under your back and keep your legs slightly bent at the hips to minimize the tension on your incision.
• Aspirin, diet pills, and some vitamin supplements can interfere with your recovery. Consult your surgeon before taking over-the-counter drugs and vitamins.
• Avoid heavy lifting.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing for the first few weeks so you’ll feel more comfortable.
• Avoid eating salty food because it increases swelling.
• Stop smoking. Nicotine can greatly impair your ability to heal after surgery.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, extreme pain, or any other medical emergency.

Being a mom is a mixture of heaven and hell. You get precious smiles and gentle touches for thank you, but you also get puked on and sleepless nights. Because you lack rest and get tired of looking after your little one, you may look ‘worn out’ over time. But being a mom shouldn’t be an excuse to look this way. In fact, being a mom should be your motivation to look your best. You owe it to your child, to your husband, and most importantly, to your self.

A mommy makeover is a popular trend among mothers these days. It is composed of a combination of procedures designed to restore various parts of your body. Here are some of the treatments you should expect to get:

• Tummy Tuck – this treatment will remove loose skin in the abdomen.
• Breast Augmentation or Breast Lift – this treatment can restore the fullness and firmness of your breasts. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause your bosom to sag and deflate over time.
• Liposuction – this treatment will remove excess fat in your body. It can help restore your pre-baby body and make you look sexy again. Some doctors perform it with body contouring.

Getting a mommy makeover is best for women who are trying to bounce back into shape after giving birth. Although you can always exercise and observe proper diet, there are just some women who have a hard time getting their body back.

If you’re one of the moms who think being beautiful and sexy again is an impossible dream, think again. A little surgical help from your trusted cosmetic surgeon is the answer. The procedures included in a mommy makeover can reverse the wear and tear that having babies can sometimes cause. This treatment should help you regain not only your looks but also your self-confidence.

How much does it cost?

The cost of getting a mommy makeover depends on the details of your treatment. It usually ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. To get the best results, doctors strongly suggest that you don’t cut down on your budget. Many patients have been robbed of their opportunity to look their best because of their desire to save money. Don’t be hesitant to spend a bit more for a professional, with top-notch education and training, and lots of experience. Only this kind of doctor will be able to help you achieve the look of your dreams.

Risks of Getting a Mommy Makeover

Safety should always be your top priority when considering any cosmetic treatment. Finding a doctor who shares the same goal should be number one on your list. Getting a mommy makeover involves some risk such as bleeding and infection. Your cosmetic surgeon should be able to discuss these things with you. All possible precautions should be taken before and after the operation to reduce all possible risks. As long as you’re healthy and you follow your doctor’s instructions, the possibility of a complication is very low.

Since there are many types of breast implants available today, you may have a difficult time choosing which one you want. But with the help your doctor, some tests, and detailed discussions, you will be able to choose which one is best.

Breast augmentation is one of the most performed cosmetic procedure in the United States. In fact, there are around 300,000 operations performed every year. If you’re thinking about getting this treatment, you should know that it’s not something to be taken lightly. It is important to get answers to your questions to have a successful breast augmentation experience.

Things to Consider in Choosing the Best Breast Implant

• Choose a brand that’s FDA Approved. These are three large suppliers of breast implants that have passed FDA’s strict regulatory process – Allergan, Mentor, and Sientra. Your doctor should be able to discuss each brand with you and inject his or her recommendations. Of course, if you already have a different brand in mind you can go with that. But just a reminder, it’s safer to go with a brand that’s FDA approved.
• Choose the type of material used – silicone or saline. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages. Silicone breast implants are best for women who are 22 years and above. Women love them because they feel and move like real breasts. However, they require larger incision sites for placement. It’s also difficult to detect a rupture because they remain in the same form; you’ll need to undergo mammogram to check if the breast implants are still intact. Saline breast implants, on the other hand, are FDA approved for anyone over the age of 18. They require smaller incision sites, and ruptures can easily be detected. However, they feel and look less natural compared to silicone implants.
• Choose which shape is best for your body anatomy – round or teardrop. The most commonly used shape is round breast implants. Women prefer them because they don’t have particular radial orientation. And since they are semi-spherical in shape, they create fullness in the upper pole area. Some women prefer using teardrop-shaped breast implants because they resemble the natural shape of a human breast. If you’re going for a subtle, natural look, this shape is ideal for you. But you may need to get a second surgery when the implant rotates and changes its position over time.
• Choose if you want to have a high, medium or low profile. You can choose how high or low the implants sits on your body. Choose the high profile if you want more cleavage. Your doctor should be able to help you determine the best profile for your body type.
• Choose whether you want your breast implant smooth or textured. Although there is no significant difference between the two, more cases of cancer have been related to using textured breast implants. Ask your cosmetic surgeon for more details.
• Choose the right size. This is probably the most difficult decision that women make about getting a ‘boob job.’ Always remember to choose a size that’s ideal for your frame. It will look more natural and appealing. So before committing to any particular size, make sure to discuss your aesthetic goals with your doctor.

The success of your breast augmentation treatment is affected by the type of breast implant used. It is crucial that you choose a type that is not only safe but also fits your body type. Choose an experienced cosmetic doctor with whom you can freely discuss your aesthetic goals. Being able to clearly discuss what you want with your doctor yields positive and promising results.

Breast augmentation is often referred to by patients as ‘boob job, ’ and its main purpose is to improve your natural breast size asymmetry by restoring your breasts’ volume. Your doctor should discuss everything you need to know about the procedure before you go under the knife.

Types of Breast Implants

Whether your goal is a subtle change or a big dramatic difference, you only deserve the best result for your breast augmentation. Take time to explore what is right for you; do your research and ask your family and friends for opinions. Once you have a deep understanding of what the procedure is all about, you will be able to choose the best type of implant for you.

The first two types discussed in this article are the most commonly used types in the industry.

• Saline-filled Breast Implants – these are made of silicone elastometer shells that are filled with saline. The sterile salt water filling gives the implant the shape and size desired by most patients. It also determines the firmness of the breast. This type is only used on women who are 18 years and above. If you’re looking to save on the cost of your breast augmentation, saline-filled breast implants are your best option. It has low scarring risk, and a rupture is easily detected. If you notice the size of your breast has reduced, it means that the saline solution has leaked.
• Silicone Gel Breast Implants – these are made of silicone shell elastometer that is filled with silicone gel. The material used to make these implants are now thicker than the older models. They are less likely to rupture, and patients say that they feel more natural than any other type of breast implants. Although they are a bit expensive, many women prefer silicone gel because of that reason. However, they may also require a larger incision site which increases the risk of scarring. Ruptures are difficult to detect; you have to undergo MRI to know if there’s leak.
• Hydrogel Breast Implants – these silicone elastometer shells are filled with hydrogel. The hydrogel is a type of polymer that increases in size with water. The risks of using it as a breast implant have not been identified yet, which makes it less attractive to use for the procedure.
• Soya Bean Oil Filled Breast Implants – these silicone elastometer shells are filled with soya bean oil. Doctors are hesitant to use it for the procedure because it may increase the risk of breast cancer. Also, inflammation of the breast has been determined to be a possible side effect of using this material.
• Titanium Coated Breast Implants – these are silicone elastometer shells filled with silicone gel and coated with titanium. The purpose of the coating is to prevent ruptures and reduce the risk of rejection. It can also help reduce the risk of scarring. However, its safety is still not proven and should undergo further studies before recommended for use.

What is Breast Lift?

It is a cosmetic procedure that raises the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. The most common type of breast lift is mastopexy, and it requires no overnight stay. Sometimes, it only takes three hours to perform, and the patient can go home right after. Breast lifts are highly recommended to women who need their nipples repositioned. Women who have enlarged areolas can also benefit from this treatment. Some patients also get breast implants during their breast lift. However, this will depend on your situation and should be discussed in detail with your doctor.

How Much is Breast Lift?

Based on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons statistics in 2015, the average cost of getting a breast lift in the U.S. is $4,419. But the cost may vary from one situation to another. Additional cost for anesthesia, room facilities, and other related expenses may also be added to your bill. Plus, you will have to pay for your doctor’s professional fee. The rates of cosmetic surgeons vary based on their experience, office location, and type of procedure performed. Make sure to check if your doctor offers payment arrangements or financing plans. With all the fees related to breast surgery, it is crucial that you choose the best doctor in your area to work with.

Preparing Yourself Before and After Surgery

After finding a doctor that you are comfortable with, you should already have a clear idea of what the procedure is all about. Your cosmetic surgeon will discuss every detail with you, give you options and consider your health too. You will know if you need to get breast implants and what the recovery process will be like after treatment.

You are required to get lab testing or medical evaluation to make sure that you are fit to undergo the procedure. You may also need to adjust any current medication that you are taking and get a baseline mammogram before surgery. It will help detect possible changes to your breast tissue if there’s any.

Although complications are rare after breast lifts, you may experience bleeding, infection and scarring. Your doctor will give you post-care instructions to lower the risk of these complications. If you follow them, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Some of the things that you should avoid are smoking, heavy lifting and taking herbal supplements and antibiotics.

Breast lifts are usually performed in accredited office-based surgical centers, ambulatories or hospital. It is an outpatient procedure, which means you don’t need to stay overnight. Make sure to have someone fetch you after surgery as you will not be able to drive. Your normal activities may also need to change for a few days until you fully recover.

Risks of Breast Lift Procedure

• Anesthesia risks
• Hematoma formation
• Infection
• Poor healing of incisions
• Fluid accumulation
• Possible partial or total loss of nipple and areola
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Cardiac and pulmonary complications
• Changes in the breast sensation
• And more…

Women come in all shapes and sizes. Your shape and size are the qualities that make you unique and special. The same thing goes with breast implants. They come in different shapes and sizes to fit the physique of the patient. Some patients look best with round-shaped breasts while others prefer a slightly pointed pair. Whichever type you prefer, always consult your trusted doctor to get good advice.

Round Versus Teardrop Breast Implants

Round and teardrop are the two basic shapes of breast implants. The former is the traditional design and remains to be the most used type of breast implant across the globe. If your goal is to have a breast that’s shaped like Victoria’s Secret models, round-shaped implants are the best choice for you. These implants can give you soft and nicely-proportioned breasts that look natural. They are made from different materials such as saline or silicone gel. You can also choose from a range of size, depending on what suits your body type.

Teardrop breast implants only became available in the U.S. in 2012. However, they’ve been used in countries outside the United States for many years before that. They are often referred to as ‘gummy-bear’ implants because they have the ability to maintain their shape and size. Teardrop breast implants are usually made from silicone gel that is thicker than the ones used for round-shaped implants. They are available in different shapes, and doctors find them easier to control and fit into a woman’s anatomy. For example, if you want to achieve a fuller upper pole, your doctor may recommend using a tall oval-shaped silicone gel.

Choosing the right shape of breast implant is a tedious job. It is also a critical step to make your breast augmentation experience a success. Choosing the best breast implant requires great expertise and a detailed consultation process with your doctor. As a patient, you have to be clear about your aesthetic goals. Do not be afraid to discuss it with your doctor so that he or she can help you achieve it. But first, you have to find a doctor that you can trust and that you’re comfortable with.

Things to Consider When Choosing Breast Implant Shapes

Your breast shape is different from other women. It is important to choose the right breast implant shape to achieve the look that you want. Choosing your implant shape is a very personal thing and if you’re having a hard time, go through this list of to help you decide:

• Consider your body type. If you’re petite or tall, slim or chubby, etc.
• Consider how much breast tissue you currently have. Aside from consultations, your doctor will conduct tests to know whether you’re a good candidate for breast augmentation. It is also where he or she can determine how much breast tissue is available to work with.
• Placement of the implant. It is also something that you should discuss with your doctor. Breast implants can be placed under the muscle or subglandular.
• Incision site. Again, this will be discussed with your doctor. The most common incision sites are the armpit, navel, edge of the areola, and more.