Mommy makeovers are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures among new moms. This set of customized surgeries helps women regain confidence in their bodies after pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
Dr. Gregory Dumanian, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and an elite plastic surgeon in Chicago, specializes in helping women find the perfect approach for their mommy makeovers.
One of the most important aspects of planning is timing: When is the right time? Is it too soon after having your baby? Should you wait until your family is complete? Read on to get the answers and learn how to time your mommy makeover to fit your life.
Understanding Mommy Makeover
Before considering the timing, it’s important to understand exactly what you’re planning for. Dr. Dumanian uses a customized approach for every woman because each person has specific areas of concern that may be unique.
In general, mommy makeovers often include a combination of several procedures, including:
- Breast Enhancement: May include a lift, reduction, augmentation (implants,) or a combination.
- Tummy Tuck: In a tummy tuck, Dr. Dumanian trims excess skin and repairs the abdominal muscles. Many pregnant women experience rectus diastasis, in which the muscles separate during pregnancy due to extra pressure. Dr. Dumanian invented the first new surgical suture in 40 years for repair of the abdominal muscle tears. Called “Duramesh Mesh Suture”, he uses it exclusively in his abdominal wall practice. Mesh suture is now being used around the country and around the globe in abdominal muscle surgery, with improved results in comparison to standard sutures and meshes. A tummy tuck can repair even severe cases of rectus diastasis, when Dr. Dumanian uses both a sheet of mesh as well as Duramesh to rebuild the abdominal wall in young mothers who are done having children.
- Liposuction: Liposuction is targeted fat removal. It’s often part of mommy makeovers because it can help streamline the waist, abdomen, and other areas.
During your consultation, you’ll discuss your areas of concern with Dr. Dumanian and work with him to design a surgery plan that helps you reach your goals.
When Is the Right Time for a Mommy Makeover?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but in general, ideal candidates are:
- Finished With Family Building: Future pregnancies could undo your results.
- Fully Healed: It’s important to wait for your body to stabilize after having a baby. This usually means waiting at least six months, perhaps up to a year, based on your body’s healing response.
- At a Healthy Weight: We typically recommend waiting until you achieve your pre-pregnancy weight, or as close as possible, before your mommy makeover. This helps ensure your results are consistent with your goals and that you enjoy long-lasting results.
Other factors can play a role in planning, too. For example, it’s important to book your mommy makeover at a time when you have some help around the house since you’ll have to rest and limit movement immediately after the procedure.
Mommy Makeover Consultations in Chicago, IL
Ready to start mommy makeover planning or schedule your surgery? Call the office of Dr. Gregory Dumanian in Chicago, IL, at 312-695-6022 to book your appointment.